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Shapiro, fresh off reelection, weighs 2028 run at Denver gathering of Democratic contenders

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro told a Denver conference of Democratic activists that a presidential bid is a 'personal decision,' as he joined other potential 2028 contenders on the national stage.

Shapiro, fresh off reelection, weighs 2028 run at Denver gathering of Democratic contenders

DENVER — Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, buoyed by a decisive reelection victory, said Friday that deciding whether to run for president is a deeply personal choice, as he joined a slate of potential Democratic contenders at a gathering in Denver.

Shapiro, who won a second term in November, told attendees at the Democratic conference that any decision about a White House bid would be made with his family and based on his own convictions, according to remarks at the event. The governor did not announce a timeline for a decision, but his appearance alongside other rising Democratic figures signaled his growing engagement on the national stage.

The conference brought together activists and party leaders from across the country, offering Shapiro a platform to reintroduce himself to a national audience after his blowout win in a key battleground state. His victory — in a state that has been pivotal in recent presidential elections — has fueled speculation about his ambitions beyond Harrisburg.

Shapiro has emphasized bipartisan cooperation and economic development during his tenure, and he has been a vocal advocate for voting rights and democratic institutions. His remarks in Denver come as Democrats begin to survey a wide field of potential candidates for the 2028 presidential race, with no clear frontrunner emerging.

The governor's appearance at the gathering was part of a broader effort to support Democratic candidates and causes nationwide, according to people familiar with his schedule. He has also been active in fundraising and campaigning for down-ballot Democrats in other states.

For Pennsylvania voters, Shapiro's national profile raises questions about how he would balance a potential presidential campaign with his responsibilities in Harrisburg. The governor has said he remains focused on his current job, but his travel and speaking engagements have drawn increased attention.

Other potential contenders at the Denver event included governors and senators from across the country, all of whom are weighing their own paths to the White House. The conference provided an early opportunity for activists to size up the field.

Shapiro's comments were met with enthusiasm from attendees, many of whom view him as a rising star in the party. But the governor cautioned that any decision would not be made lightly.

"It's a personal decision," Shapiro said, according to a report from the event. He added that he and his family would consider the best way to serve.

The governor's reelection win was notable for its margin, which exceeded expectations in a state that has been closely divided. His ability to win over independent and moderate voters has made him an attractive figure for national Democrats seeking a candidate with broad appeal.

As the 2028 race takes shape, Shapiro's moves will be closely watched in Pennsylvania and beyond. For now, he is keeping his options open while continuing to build a national network.

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