Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro joined Democratic gubernatorial candidates in Virginia and New Jersey over the weekend, sparking rumors he is positioning for a 2028 White House campaign. Shapiro participated in campaign and fundraising events in New Jersey on Saturday to back Rep. Mikie Sherrill and traveled to Virginia on Sunday to support former Rep. Abigail Spanberger, according to reports.

The Democratic governor was previously considered a finalist for Kamala Harris’ vice presidential running mate in the 2024 election. He is now seen as a leading contender for a 2028 presidential run. Shapiro, who faces Republican state Treasurer Stacy Garrity in the 2026 Pennsylvania gubernatorial race, attended a rally with Sherrill in Monroe Township on Saturday, the first day of early voting in the state. Later, he joined a campaign event at a church in New Brunswick.

Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg is also set to headline fundraising events for Sherrill and New Jersey Democrats, with tickets ranging from $100 to $79,000. Shapiro will assist in fundraising on Saturday, while Buttigieg is scheduled to speak at an Asbury Park event on October 30.

Republican state Sen. Doug Mastriano criticized Shapiro for his out-of-state campaign efforts. Meanwhile, Spanberger, a moderate Democrat competing in Virginia’s gubernatorial race, faces challenges including backlash over leaked text messages from a Democratic attorney general candidate. Democrats are focusing on executive leadership and policy achievements as they look ahead to 2028 amid political shifts.