General election matchup

Ron DeSantis vs Gretchen Whitmer: 2028

Ron DeSantis (Republican) and Gretchen Whitmer (Democratic) are two of the most-discussed names for 2028 - but they have never faced each other, and no 2028 nominee has been chosen. There are essentially no head-to-head 2028 general-election polls this far out, so the honest answer to "who would win" is: it is far too early to know. Here is how they actually compare.

Ron DeSantis headshotRon DeSantis
Governor of Florida
RepublicanLikely to run
Age (2026)
47
Home state
Florida
Age in 2029
50
VS
Gretchen Whitmer headshotGretchen Whitmer
Governor of Michigan
DemocraticPossible
Age (2026)
54
Home state
Michigan
Age in 2029
57

Neither name is large enough in the prediction markets yet to show a stable number. Compare them on profile, role and status above.

Ron DeSantis: where things stand

The term-limited Florida governor and 2024 candidate has said he is open to another run. His term ends in 2027, freeing him to campaign.

Standing: A distant third in early 2028 Republican primary polling, in the low single digits to high single digits across recent surveys.

Full Ron DeSantis 2028 profile

Gretchen Whitmer: where things stand

Popular swing-state governor often listed as a top contender. In May 2026 she said she would not make a 2028 bid, then immediately softened it to 'never say never.'

Standing: Said she will not run, then walked it back.

Full Gretchen Whitmer 2028 profile

Quick answers

Ron DeSantis vs Gretchen Whitmer: FAQ

Who would win, Ron DeSantis or Gretchen Whitmer, in 2028?
It is too early to know. No 2028 nominees have been chosen and reliable head-to-head 2028 polling does not exist yet. Ron DeSantis is currently rated "Likely to run" and Gretchen Whitmer "Possible" to run.
Are Ron DeSantis and Gretchen Whitmer running for president in 2028?
As of June 2026 neither has formally declared. Ron DeSantis: Former candidate; says he is open to running again. Gretchen Whitmer: Said she will not run, then walked it back.
Is this a Democrat vs Republican matchup?
Yes. Ron DeSantis is a Republican and Gretchen Whitmer is a Democratic, so this would be a general-election style matchup if both won their party's nomination.
Don't miss the moment

Get alerts on this 2028 matchup

We will email you if Ron or Gretchen enters the race or the odds move.