Axios reports that Steve Bannon is quietly assembling infrastructure that could support a 2028 presidential bid by forming a PAC and consulting allies, while appearing at state GOP events. Associates say his aim may be to shape the Republican debate around an "America First" platform rather than to win the presidency outright. Bannon denies he is running and says he is focused on backing a third Trump term; he is also co‑authoring a book with Alan Dershowitz on the legality of a third term.
Steve Bannon Said to Be 'Laying Groundwork' for a 2028 Presidential Push — But He Denies Plans
Former White House adviser Steve Bannon is reportedly building infrastructure that could support a 2028 presidential bid, though he tells reporters he has no formal plans to run. An Axios report citing anonymous sources says Bannon is setting up a political action committee and consulting allies about potential staff and campaign strategy.
What the Axios Report Says
According to Axios, Bannon has appeared at events hosted by Colorado and Georgia Republican parties and has been meeting with local organizers who play a role in primary contests. Associates quoted by the outlet say his goal may be less about winning the presidency and more about shaping the Republican primary debate around an "America First" platform.
Policy Priorities and Strategy
Sources describe the agenda Bannon is promoting as centered on a non‑interventionist foreign policy, economic populism and opposition to Big Tech influence. Former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R‑FL) summarized the potential mix as combining the foreign‑policy approach of Sen. Rand Paul with tax ideas associated with Elizabeth Warren.
“The MAGA godfather isn’t serious about becoming president — that’s not the point,” Axios quoted an associate as saying.
Allies have reportedly discussed a nontraditional campaign structure that could be run from Bannon’s Capitol Hill podcast studio rather than through early‑state rallies in places like Iowa and New Hampshire.
Bannon’s Response and Trump Third‑Term Talk
Bannon pushed back on the idea of a personal run, calling the notion "bullsh*t" to Axios, and said he is focused on backing what he described as a third term for Donald Trump — despite the 22nd Amendment’s two‑term limit. In blunt language, Bannon said he intends to fight to "save our country," arguing legal and political maneuvers could be pursued to extend Trump’s influence.
He also told Axios he is collaborating with former Harvard Law professor Alan Dershowitz on a book titled Could President Trump Constitutionally Serve a Third Term?, scheduled for release in March.
What Comes Next
The report notes that Trump will turn 80 on June 14 and remains the oldest person ever inaugurated as president. Axios quoted a source saying that if Trump ultimately decides not to run, Bannon might "reluctantly" carry the movement’s banner — positioning himself as a kingmaker or an alternative standard‑bearer rather than a traditional candidate.
Reporting Note: The account relies on anonymous sources cited by Axios and includes direct quotes from Bannon and his allies; Bannon has not launched a formal campaign or filed to run for office.
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