Democrats' 2028 presidential auditions begin in Denver

A who's who of Democratic power players descends on Denver this week to plot the party's future, fresh off its sweeping midterm victories . Why it matters: The gathering gives Democrats' rising stars an early stage to test their 2028 message, and explore whether Colorado's red-to- deep-blue shift could offer a national playbook. Driving the news: The three-day " What's Next " conference, starting Thursday, features dozens of Democratic heavyweights and potential presidential contenders, including House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries , Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro , Texas Sen.-elect James Talarico and former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg . Colorado's own Gov.-elect Phil Weiser , U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet, U.S. Rep. Joe Neguse and Denver Mayor Mike Johnston round out the lineup. Majority Democrats, a group seeking to shape the party's direction, is organizing the event. The big picture: Colorado's two-decade transformation into a Democratic powerhouse made it a natural host, spokesperson Vidhya Jeyadev told Axios. Organizers want to dissect and pinpoint what worked — and what didn't — in the midterms, and how to turn wins into lasting power. The gathering comes as Democrats debate whether they should double down on progressive policies or tack toward the center heading into 2028. Behind the scenes: Johnston, a Majority Democrats member, told Axios in a phone interview he personally lobbied to bring the conference to Denver after organizers began scouting locations about a year ago. He'll give opening and closing remarks and expects private meetings with most of the national leaders attending. He plans to pitch Denver's approaches to homelessness , housing and public safety as national models. He'll also press for more federal money for affordable housing and his universal child care plan . Between the lines: Colorado Democrats have embraced gun safety , immigration and LGBTQ rights — positions some in the party worry could cost votes elsewhere. Johnston