Rahm Emanuel, former mayor of Chicago, Illinois, and chief of staff for President Barack Obama, is considering a presidential run in 2028, preparing for the race over three years before the election.
At 65, Emanuel, who recently returned from his post as U.S. Ambassador to Japan, has re-entered the American political scene, making media appearances and writing opinion pieces critiquing the current administration and his own party.
On March 12, 2025, Emanuel indicated his interest in running for president, stating to Politico his intentions to succeed President Donald Trump. Emanuel, a seasoned Democrat, is embarking on a strategic media presence, joining CNN as a senior commentator and contributing op-eds to The Washington Post. He has also appeared on shows such as Bill Maher’s.
During his conversation with Maher, Emanuel criticized fellow Democrats for what he considers misguided priorities, particularly in education and social areas. “In seventh grade, if I had known I could’ve said the word ‘they’ and gotten in the girls’ bathroom, I would’ve done it,” he told Maher. “We literally are a superpower, we’re facing off against China with 1.4 billion people, and two-thirds of our children can’t read eighth grade level.”
Education seems to be a central theme for Emanuel’s prospective campaign. Sources report his concern over American students’ academic performance compared to their peers in China, emphasizing the need for educational reform.
Political analysts perceive Emanuel as positioning himself as a centrist Democrat capable of challenging Trumpism. His extensive background includes serving as Obama’s chief of staff from 2009 to 2010, Chicago mayor from 2011 to 2019, and most recently as U.S. Ambassador to Japan. Emanuel also represented Illinois’s 5th Congressional District in the U.S. House from 2002-2008 and was chairman of the House Democratic Caucus.
Some Democratic insiders believe Emanuel’s timing could be advantageous. One source mentioned, “presidential races are about timing, and if ever there was a period where Emanuel would be viable, it’s now.”
Nevertheless, Emanuel faces significant challenges. His time as Chicago mayor was controversial, especially his handling of the Laquan McDonald police shooting, which resulted in low approval ratings and his decision not to seek reelection in 2019. Critics have already responded to his potential presidential bid, citing his involvement with NAFTA, support for the Iraq War, and Wall Street deregulation.
There are also concerns about Emanuel’s ties to former President Obama, which could make him appear as a candidate of the past. Observers question if his centrist approach aligns with the party’s increasingly leftward shift. His past conflicts with unions and criticism of progressive priorities could also be obstacles.
Analysts suggest Emanuel’s diplomatic experience in Asia could be beneficial in a campaign focused on global competition, especially with China. His tenure as ambassador provided him with insights into international relations in a strategically important region.
If the 2028 Democratic primary unfolds as anticipated, Emanuel could encounter a competitive field. Former Vice President Kamala Harris is reportedly contemplating a run, while other potential candidates include Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, California Governor Gavin Newsom, and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker.
Emanuel’s potential paths are not limited to the presidency. Reports indicate he might consider roles such as DNC chair, Illinois governor in 2026, a U.S. Senate seat, or even returning as Chicago mayor in 2027. When asked about another mayoral bid, Emanuel did not dismiss the possibility, stating he is “not done with public service.”
Political observers note that even if Emanuel’s presidential campaign is unsuccessful, it could still position him for a significant role in a future Democratic administration. For now, he continues to enhance his profile through media engagements and public statements, keeping his political options open post-ambassadorship.