This following commentary was written by Rudi Mwongozi.

The Republican media is celebrating President Donald Trump's supposed surge in popularity in the polls. His approval rating sits at 56%—a solid number, but hardly a mind-blowing one—while his disapproval rating hovers at 47%. This hardly suggests a MAGA tidal wave from the American electorate.

The Democrats face a more serious challenge: their approval ratings languish in the mid-20s. It's not just MAGA supporters who are dissatisfied; a wide cross-section of voters has lost faith in the party.

Still, several potential pitfalls await a Trump administration. The Gaza situation could prove difficult. If Arab states and Palestinians reject his peace plan, or if Israel launches another harsh offensive with American-supplied munitions, Trump would bear the political consequences. His proposed government overhaul and revenue recovery plan, led by Elon Musk, needs to deliver tangible results. Voters—especially the middle and working classes—want to see both improved living standards and meaningful tax relief, not just corporate tax cuts.

Any of these issues could sour public opinion on a new Trump administration, but I'm still not sure the Democrats can recover in time to garner sufficient support before the midterms. While unlikely, given the current political climate, such stumbles on Trump's part aren't impossible.

Rather than fixating on anti-Trump rhetoric, Democrats would be wise to start cultivating a pragmatic, moderate liberal to challenge potential Republican nominees like Vice President J.D. Vance, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, or even Trump himself (who might attempt to finagle an unprecedented third term—don't dismiss this possibility).

Several promising candidates deserve consideration: Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, Pennsylvania, Senator John Fetterman (yes, you heard it here first), former Tennessee Congressman Harold Ford, or Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer. While Whitmer leans left, she could be coached to adopt a more centrist image.

These potential candidates should be positioning themselves for the Democratic primaries starting in 2027. If Democrats hope to mount a serious challenge in 2028, the groundwork needs to begin now !