SANTA FE, Former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel brought his consideration of a 2028 presidential campaign to New Mexico this week, spending two days meeting with residents and political leaders. His itinerary included conversations with veterans in Albuquerque, a meeting with Gov.-elect Deb Haaland and a tour of the Calf Canyon/Hermits Peak wildfire burn scar in northern New Mexico.
At the Santa Fe Indian School on Thursday, Nov. 12, Emanuel discussed his background with students and openly acknowledged his interest in the presidency. Asked by a student about his plans, he responded, “I think I have something to offer.” He also joked about looking for a job. Emanuel has not formally announced a campaign and said his travels around the country remain focused on listening and learning.
His visit comes as New Mexico gains prominence among potential presidential contenders. In August, the Democratic National Committee voted to make the state one of six early contests on its 2028 presidential election calendar. Under that schedule, New Mexico would hold its primary on Feb. 15, following South Carolina, Nevada and New Hampshire. Michigan and Virginia would vote afterward, ahead of the remaining states.
Other Democrats considering presidential campaigns have also visited. Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly and Maryland Sen. Chris Van Hollen attended an Albuquerque matanza rally last month organized by New Mexico Democratic Sen. Ben Ray Luján. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear joined Haaland at campaign events in Santa Fe and Española before the general election held last week.
Emanuel pointed to his experience in public office as evidence of his ability to address problems. A former member of Congress, he served as chief of staff to President Barack Obama before winning election as Chicago mayor in 2011. He later served as U.S. ambassador to Japan under President Joe Biden. Speaking briefly after the school visit, Emanuel said, “When I see failure, I don’t accept failure as a default option.”
A political moderate, Emanuel is not considered the most likely Democratic nominee for 2028 by some political pundits, but a candidacy could give him a significant role in shaping the contest. His proposals include requiring government officials, including presidents, to retire at 75 and prohibiting federal employees from betting in prediction markets.
Emanuel also described personal ties to New Mexico, where he spent his honeymoon in Santa Fe and later took his children to their first baseball game, an Albuquerque Isotopes game. The state’s proposed earlier presidential primary still needs legislative approval during next year’s 60-day session. Haaland has voiced support for the change.
