Democratic lawmakers and potential presidential hopefuls gathered at Reverend Al Sharpton’s National Action Network convention in New York this week seeking to solidify support among Black voters ahead of the November midterms and the 2028 cycle. The annual meeting gives members of Congress and rising national figures a forum to address a voting bloc that often shapes Democratic primaries.
Speakers on the convention floor criticized the Trump administration and pushed back against attacks on diversity, equity and inclusion, calling those principles central to American values and promising to defend them in policy. Many also used the platform to denounce corruption and emphasize accountability.
CBS News reporter Fin Gómez, on site at the convention, said it drew a wide field of Democrats testing the waters for 2028. He noted that priorities voiced by Black voters — particularly around cost-of-living and affordability — are guiding conversations at the event. Gómez highlighted electoral shifts: in 2020, former president Biden won roughly 92 percent of the Black vote while then-president Trump captured about 8 percent; by 2024, Trump had made gains among Black voters, in part by focusing on economic concerns.
Attendees told reporters they want candidates to focus more on domestic needs. One participant urged leaders to concentrate on what they will do for US citizens, saying that the financial and policy costs of overseas conflict pull resources away from pressing issues at home.
Convention organizers and campaign staff described the gathering as an early-stage opportunity for prospective 2028 contenders to build relationships and test messages without officially declaring campaigns, which would trigger Federal Election Commission reporting requirements. Several campaigns said they expect to make definitive decisions about 2028 runs after the midterms.
Prominent figures appearing included Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, and Arizona Sens. Ruben Gallego and Mark Kelly. Former vice president Kamala Harris was among the biggest draws, with many attendees saying they would like to see her consider another presidential bid and with observers watching closely as she spoke.