New 'Run Ro' committee launches funding drive for potential 2028 presidential bid

A new group called Run Ro has begun organizing to prepare for a possible 2028 presidential run by California Representative Ro Khanna. The committee, which can accept donations and build a volunteer base, was announced by its co-chairs, former New York Representative Jamaal Bowman and progressive strategist Nomiki Konst. This move comes just after midterm elections that returned Democratic control of both the House and the Senate, a result that boosted high-profile progressive candidates.

The timing reflects a strategic effort to shape the Democratic primary debate early. Konst told NBC News that launching the initiative now allows the group to frame the discussion from a progressive populist perspective. She noted that centrist candidates often organize years in advance with established donor networks and corporate consultants. The new committee aims to channel progressive energy into a structure that can spread its message from the start, rather than waiting for the political environment to shift on its own.

Khanna, who is serving his fifth term, has gained national attention for his bipartisan efforts to release Jeffrey Epstein records and to end the war in Iran. He has been traveling to early primary states for months and does not hide his interest in the presidency. Many colleagues believe he will enter the race, though he has not made a formal announcement. In a statement, Khanna said he is honored by the committee's support for a platform that includes universal healthcare, an end to foreign wars, and taxes on millionaires.

Bowman, who served closely with Khanna in the House, described the congressman as possessing the work ethic and vision needed at this moment. He also acknowledged the presence of other prominent progressives. New York Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is widely viewed as the most well-known progressive in the House considering a run, though she has not yet decided whether to seek the presidency, a Senate seat, or to remain in the House. Bowman called her a sister and said he loves her, while emphasizing that Khanna has shown the necessary qualities for the role.

The path for a House member to reach the White House is historically narrow. Only one person, Ohio Republican James Garfield in 1880, has been elected to the presidency directly from the House of Representatives. Khanna, who co-chaired Bernie Sanders' 2020 campaign, is a popular figure among progressives nationwide. He stated that he will decide whether to run himself or support another candidate with his family after the holiday season.

No candidate has officially entered the Democratic race for the 2028 presidential nomination yet. The Run Ro committee plans to continue organizing to ensure that if Khanna decides to run, the campaign will be ready to compete immediately.