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WASHINGTON, D.C. — Former Vice President Kamala Harris is reportedly expanding her outreach to progressive leaders as speculation continues to build over whether she will seek the Democratic nomination for president in 2028.
According to multiple reports, Kamala Harris recently held a phone conversation with New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, a prominent progressive whose political influence has grown within Democratic circles since taking office earlier this year.
The conversation, first reported by Axios and later confirmed by Mamdani, is one of several recent efforts by Harris to reconnect with influential progressive organizations and activists ahead of a potential presidential campaign.
Speaking on SiriusXM’s “The Clay Cane Show,” Mamdani confirmed that he and Harris had spoken.
“The vice president reached out to have a conversation, and we’ve had a brief conversation. We’ve been in touch over the last few months, and I really do appreciate her outreach,” Mamdani said.
Reports also indicate Harris has met privately with Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) during a Black women’s empowerment summit in Chicago.
In addition, Harris has reportedly reached out to members of the “Uncommitted Movement,” a coalition of pro-Palestinian activists who criticized the Biden administration’s handling of the Israel-Gaza conflict during the 2024 election cycle.
Political analysts say the outreach could be an effort to strengthen relationships with parts of the Democratic coalition that were less enthusiastic about Harris during her 2024 presidential campaign.
The reported meetings quickly drew criticism from Republican leaders and conservative commentators, who argued Harris is aligning herself with the Democratic Party’s progressive wing.
Republican National Committee Chairman Joe Gruters told Fox News Digital that the outreach reflects what he views as a broader shift within the Democratic Party.
Gruters argued that Harris’ engagement with progressive leaders demonstrates the growing influence of the party’s left flank, while also criticizing its policy direction.
Similarly, Republican strategist Nathan Brand criticized Harris on social media following reports of the conversation with Mamdani.
Although Harris has not officially announced whether she intends to run for president in 2028, she has fueled speculation in recent months.
Earlier this year, while appearing at the National Action Network’s 35th Anniversary Convention, Harris was asked by Rev. Al Sharpton whether she planned to seek the presidency again.
Her response drew cheers from the audience.
“I might. I might. I’m thinking about it… I’ll keep you posted,” Harris said.
Supporters responded with chants encouraging her to “run again.”
Harris became the Democratic nominee in the 2024 presidential election after President Joe Biden exited the race but ultimately lost to President Donald Trump.
With the 2028 presidential race still years away, many potential Democratic contenders are expected to begin building relationships with key constituencies across the party.
Whether Harris ultimately enters the race remains unknown, but her recent outreach suggests she is maintaining connections with influential political leaders and activist groups that could play a significant role in a future Democratic primary.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, both supporters and critics will be closely watching Harris’ next moves.
Do you believe Kamala Harris will run for president again in 2028? If she does, will building stronger relationships with progressive leaders help or hurt her chances? Share your thoughts in the comments.