By Michael Kelman Portney

After a tough loss to Donald Trump in the 2024 election, Democrats are in need of a fresh face and a new approach that can energize the base while attracting moderate and independent voters. Mark Cuban, the billionaire entrepreneur, Shark Tank star, and longtime owner of the Dallas Mavericks, could be exactly what the Democrats need to make a comeback in 2028. Cuban’s mix of business savvy, outsider status, progressive values, and track record as a champion in sports gives him a unique platform to unite Americans across divides. Here’s why Cuban could be the ideal candidate to reclaim the White House for the Democrats:

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1. He Brings Business Savvy to Address Economic Frustrations

After years of economic uncertainty, Americans are increasingly worried about wages, healthcare costs, and the future of jobs in an era of AI and automation. Cuban’s extensive business experience would give him credibility as someone who knows how to make the economy work for people, not just corporations.

A Track Record of Success: Cuban’s journey as a self-made billionaire shows he understands job creation, entrepreneurship, and innovation—all essential skills as the economy undergoes rapid change. He could offer practical ideas for boosting wages, fostering small businesses, and adapting to new technology without compromising American jobs.

Appealing to Moderates and Independents: Cuban’s pragmatic approach to the economy could draw in centrists and independents who want a leader focused on real-world solutions rather than ideological divides. His business acumen could be a selling point for voters who feel disconnected from the Democratic Party’s traditional message.

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2. He’s an Outsider—Something the Democrats Could Benefit From

With voters clearly showing they’re tired of “politics as usual,” Cuban’s outsider status could be a huge asset in 2028. He’s not part of the establishment, and his business background brings a fresh perspective on government inefficiencies.

No Political Baggage: Cuban isn’t a career politician, which could make him appealing to voters looking for an authentic voice outside the partisan gridlock. His direct, candid style might be especially refreshing for voters frustrated with Washington.

Independent Thinking: Cuban has been critical of both major parties, which shows he’s willing to work across the aisle and prioritize bipartisanship. His reputation as an independent thinker could help him bridge divides and appeal to a country weary of extreme partisanship.

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3. He’s a Skilled Communicator Who Knows How to Connect with People

Cuban’s years as a public figure on Shark Tank and his experience as an NBA team owner have honed his communication skills. He’s comfortable on camera, relatable, and straightforward—qualities that make him well-suited to connect with the public on a personal level.

Relatable and Real: Cuban’s blunt, no-nonsense approach resonates with everyday Americans who appreciate authenticity. He knows how to get his point across in a way that’s accessible, which could be a major asset in winning over undecided voters.

Social Media Savvy: Cuban is active and approachable on social media, which would give him a direct line to voters. His ability to connect digitally would allow him to energize younger audiences and engage with voters on platforms where they already spend their time.

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4. He’s a Proven Champion—and Knows How to Build Winning Teams

As the owner of the Dallas Mavericks, Cuban led the team to an NBA championship in 2011, showing his ability to build a winning team from the ground up. His experience as a champion in the sports world would allow him to run as someone who knows how to set a vision, overcome challenges, and inspire a team to victory.

Leadership Under Pressure: In leading the Mavericks to a championship, Cuban has demonstrated the grit and determination required to succeed against the odds—traits that would resonate with voters who want a candidate capable of handling America’s challenges. He can point to his time as a champion to highlight his track record of success and resilience.

A Vision of Excellence: Cuban’s leadership with the Mavericks is about more than just winning; it’s about creating a culture of excellence and teamwork. He can use this experience to show that he’s serious about building a winning coalition for the Democratic Party, uniting diverse groups around shared goals and a commitment to excellence.

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5. Progressive Ideas Combined with Real-World Solutions

Cuban has a track record of backing progressive causes in a pragmatic way, making him a rare blend of progressive ideals and business savvy. In 2028, this mix could help him appeal to the party’s core base while also attracting moderate and independent voters.

Commitment to Affordable Healthcare: Cuban’s work on Cost Plus Drugs, a company providing medications at affordable prices, is a tangible example of his commitment to reforming healthcare. This initiative shows he’s willing to tackle big issues with real-world solutions, which could resonate with voters frustrated by high healthcare costs.

Focus on Social and Economic Justice: Cuban has expressed strong support for criminal justice reform, racial equity, and educational opportunities. His solutions-oriented approach means he’s likely to advocate for policies that improve lives in concrete ways rather than through lofty promises.

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6. He’s a Billionaire Who Understands Wealth Inequality—and Speaks Out About It

Despite his billionaire status, Cuban has been outspoken about the dangers of wealth inequality and corporate overreach. His willingness to call for a fairer economy could make him a bridge between the party’s progressive wing and those seeking moderate, practical solutions.

Critical of Corporate Greed: Cuban has publicly criticized excessive corporate profit-seeking, arguing that businesses should prioritize employee welfare and community responsibility. His vision of “responsible capitalism” could be a strong point of connection with voters frustrated by corporate greed, even though he’s a billionaire himself.

Support for Fair Economic Practices: Cuban believes that the American economy should be fair and accessible, regardless of one’s background. By prioritizing transparency, accountability, and fairness, he could help Democrats appeal to working-class and middle-class voters.

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7. He’s a Visionary for the Next Generation

Cuban’s forward-thinking focus on issues like artificial intelligence, digital privacy, and automation positions him as a candidate who’s ready to lead America into the future. With younger generations growing increasingly concerned about these challenges, Cuban’s platform could resonate strongly with voters seeking a candidate who’s prepared for the 21st-century economy.

Connecting with Millennials and Gen Z: Younger voters want a leader who understands the realities of a changing world. Cuban’s open discussions on AI, the future of work, and innovation could give him an edge with Millennials and Gen Z, many of whom are focused on sustainable and equitable economic practices.

A Commitment to Progress: Cuban’s interest in tech and innovation, combined with his stance on climate change and sustainable growth, would allow him to position himself as a candidate who cares about long-term solutions for an increasingly complex world.

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Possible Campaign Themes That Could Work for Cuban in 2028

If Cuban runs in 2028, here are some campaign themes he might consider:

“Real Change, Right Now”: This slogan could tap into Cuban’s pragmatic approach, emphasizing immediate, concrete solutions rather than just promises.

“A Fairer, Stronger America”: Highlighting his commitment to economic fairness and responsible capitalism, this theme could resonate with working-class voters and those concerned with income inequality.

“Future-Ready Leadership”: Cuban’s focus on technology and innovation could help him appeal to a forward-looking electorate ready for leadership that understands 21st-century challenges.

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Why Mark Cuban Could Be Exactly What the Democrats Need in 2028

After a loss in 2024, Democrats may be looking for a fresh perspective, and Mark Cuban might be the perfect candidate to bring new energy to the party. He combines business experience, progressive values, and an outsider’s perspective with a champion’s mindset from his time leading the Dallas Mavericks to an NBA championship. His record in business and sports, his direct style, and his understanding of issues from technology to economic justice make him uniquely equipped to build a vision for a fairer, stronger America.

With Cuban, Democrats could attract independents, appeal to younger voters, and rally those who are tired of political gamesmanship. He’s not only a fresh face but one that understands what it takes to create positive change in the real world and has the championship mindset to lead the country with purpose.

In an election focused on practical outcomes and a vision for the future, Mark Cuban could very well be the right candidate to lead the Democratic Party into a new era.