Rahm Emanuel tries out a new primary lane: Democratic ‘consultant in chief’

A prominent Democratic figure is quietly laying groundwork for a potential 2028 presidential bid, making high-profile appearances in South Carolina—the first state to hold primary votes. The former White House chief of staff and mayor has returned to the state for a second visit in recent months, signaling early campaign activity. With no official announcement yet, his moves suggest a strategic push to build influence ahead of the next election cycle. The focus on South Carolina highlights the importance of early momentum in Democratic primary races.

Rahm Emanuel isn't waiting for the 2028 presidential race to officially begin. The former congressman turned White House chief of staff, Chicago mayor and U.S. ambassador to Japan has been making the rounds in South Carolina, the first state on the Democratic presidential primary calendar. For the second time in recent months, he spent a...