Buttigieg Questions Biden’s 2024 Run, Eyes 2028 in Iowa Visit

CEDAR RAPIDS, IOWA - Pete Buttigieg, former Transportation Secretary under President Joe Biden, stirred the political pot during a visit to Iowa, suggesting that Biden’s 2024 re-election bid might have been a misstep for Democrats. Speaking to reporters after a lively town hall with veterans and military families, Buttigieg reflected on the party’s fortunes, noting that hindsight reveals Biden’s decision to run again likely weakened the Democratic ticket.

The comments come amid buzz around Buttigieg’s own political ambitions, with his Iowa trip fueling speculation about a 2028 presidential run. When pressed on whether Biden’s choice to seek a second term hurt the party, Buttigieg diplomatically acknowledged, “Most would agree it wasn’t the best call.” His remarks align with revelations from a new book, Original Sin: President Biden’s Decline, Its Cover-up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again, which alleges a White House effort to downplay concerns about Biden’s cognitive health.

Biden exited the 2024 race in July after a faltering debate performance against President Donald Trump, paving the way for Vice President Kamala Harris to lead the ticket. Harris ultimately lost to Trump in November. When asked about claims of Biden’s cognitive decline, Buttigieg deflected, emphasizing Biden’s leadership during crises like the Baltimore bridge collapse. “He was sharp, focused, and insistent on delivering for the American people,” Buttigieg said, recalling their Oval Office discussions.

Buttigieg’s Iowa visit, hosted by the progressive group VoteVets, drew 1,800 attendees and rekindled memories of his 2020 campaign, where he won the state’s caucuses. Though Iowa’s role in the Democratic nominating process is uncertain for 2028, Buttigieg’s presence—complete with 2020 campaign staff and a videographer from his Win the Era group—hinted at future plans. Yet, he downplayed electoral motives, telling reporters, “I’m here to champion values and ideas, not a specific campaign.”

His decision to skip a 2026 Senate run in Michigan further stokes speculation about a national bid. When asked about 2028, Buttigieg remained coy, saying he’d consider “what I bring to the table.” Supporters at the event expressed enthusiasm for a potential encore, with some recalling their 2020 backing. For now, Buttigieg’s Iowa stop underscores his knack for keeping the political spotlight firmly on him.