Former Trump strategist Steve Bannon is reportedly taking preliminary steps that could lead to a bid in the 2028 United States presidential election, according to a recent report from Axios. However, sources close to the controversial figure suggest his primary goal is not the Oval Office itself, but rather using the threat of a campaign as political leverage.
A Campaign as Political Leverage
Two sources familiar with Bannon's thinking told Axios that the convicted fraudster does not genuinely seek the presidency. Instead, he aims to use a potential campaign to pressure other Republican hopefuls into fully embracing his hardline "America First" agenda. This strategy involves pushing the GOP field further to the right on key issues.
To this end, Bannon has reportedly begun the early stages of campaign preparation. Associates indicate he is scouting potential campaign staffers and exploring the creation of a political action committee (PAC) to support his political objectives. Any formal bid would likely be orchestrated largely from his podcast studio, minimizing traditional campaign infrastructure.
Focus on Trump's Future and Denials
Despite these preparations, Bannon publicly dismissed the Axios report as "bullshit" when questioned. He insisted his current focus is solely on securing what would be an unconstitutional third term for former President Donald Trump. Bannon, a vocal MAGA movement flamethrower, has previously claimed there are "different alternatives" to ensure Trump is on the ballot in the future, despite Trump himself having appeared to rule out another run.
One Bannon ally provided insight into a potential long-game scenario to Axios, suggesting that "when Trump doesn’t end up running, he’ll reluctantly say he must carry the mantle." This comment hints that a Bannon campaign could be positioned as a continuation of Trump's political movement should the former president not be a candidate.
Implications for the Republican Party
Bannon's manoeuvring signals an intent to remain a powerful ideological force within the Republican Party well beyond the current election cycle. By threatening a run, he seeks to shape the party's platform and candidate field from the outside. This approach underscores the ongoing influence of the populist, America First wing of the GOP, which continues to dictate terms and test the loyalty of potential presidential contenders.
For observers of U.S. politics, especially in Canada where American policy has direct repercussions, this development highlights the evolving and often unconventional power dynamics that will influence the next Republican presidential primary. Bannon's actions suggest that the battle for the soul of the GOP is far from over and will extend into the 2028 election landscape.
