Michigan Democrat Elissa Slotkin Hints at 2028 Presidential Ambitions
Senator Elissa Slotkin, a Michigan Democrat who gained national attention for a controversial video urging American service members to refuse "illegal orders," has indicated she would consider a run for president in 2028. Slotkin made the remarks during a press interaction in Iowa this week, where she is currently touring the Midwest to bolster Democratic candidates ahead of the critical midterm elections this fall.
Controversial Video Sparks Political Firestorm
Slotkin, along with five other Democratic lawmakers possessing military or intelligence backgrounds, released a social media video in November 2025 that warned public servants of "threats to our constitution...right here at home." The video culminated in a stark message: "You must refuse illegal orders." This directive drew fierce criticism from President Donald Trump, who labeled the Democrats "traitors" and accused them of "seditious behavior," even threatening severe legal consequences.
The Justice Department under Trump attempted to indict the lawmakers over the video earlier this year, but the effort ultimately failed, according to reports from NBC News citing sources familiar with the matter.
Midwest Tour and Political Focus
While campaigning in Iowa, Slotkin participated in a town hall event with state Senator Sarah Trone Garriott, who is aiming to flip a Republican-held congressional seat. During the event, Slotkin addressed key issues like healthcare, emphasizing the widespread dissatisfaction with the current system across party lines. She acknowledged the Democratic Party's challenges, including a perceived lack of focus on middle America and ineffectiveness in countering Trump's influence.
"I'm interested in being a part of the next generation who's going to rehab the Democratic brand," Slotkin told the Associated Press, showcasing her "clear-eyed" view of her party's shortcomings.
Background and Future Prospects
Slotkin, a former CIA analyst, was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2018, flipping a Republican seat, and later won a Senate seat in 2024. Her colleagues in the video included Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona and Representatives Jason Crow, Maggie Goodlander, Chris Deluzio, and Chrissy Houlahan.
When pressed about a potential 2028 presidential bid, Slotkin remained non-committal but open. "I'm not so arrogant as to think it has to be me," she stated to the Des Moines Register. "Midterms is what I'm focused on right now, but if it comes to the point afterwards that I think there's not anyone else who's on the right path, I guess I wouldn't say no forever."
This statement underscores her current prioritization of the upcoming elections while leaving the door ajar for a future national campaign, positioning her as a potential key figure in the Democratic Party's evolving landscape.
