People Capable To Be the Next Black President of the U.S.

Although Barack Obama was the first Black person to become the President of the United States, he likely won’t be the last. Unfortunately, that won’t happen during this upcoming election.

But there still are plenty of qualified candidates who have the brains and skills to become the next leader of the nation. So we decided to come up with a list.

Some of the names generated by The Root staff might be expected; others may surprise you. Tell us what you think—and who we might have missed.

Stacey Abrams

Stacey Abrams has tried multiple times to become the next governor of Georgia but has lost twice. Along the way, she’s gained a huge following and support base; we would not be shocked if she ran for president in the near future and we’d be even less shocked if she won.

Ayanna Pressley

One of the politicians at the forefront of ensuring abortion access, Rep. Ayanna Pressley (D-MA) will have the support of thousands of women who believe in abortion rights.

Cori Bush

One thing we know about Cori Bush: she’ll always be one to stand up for Black people’s rights. Bush consistently calls out Republicans and anyone else who is doing things that will negatively affect her people.

Kamala Harris

Kamala Harris has already tried to work in the Oval Office but failed during her 2020 Presidential campaign. Now, she’s the Vice President which makes her an obvious choice as the next possible president.

Michelle Obama

Who doesn’t love Michelle Obama? Although she’s never expressed political dreams, she’d be one of the most popular candidates to ever run.

Wes Moore

Wes Moore made history earlier this year by becoming the first Black governor of Maryland. Why not make more history by becoming the next president of the United States?

Raphael Warnock

Senator Raphael Warnock’s victory against Republican and all-around idiot Herschel Walker was a huge win for Democrats. He may be eyeing an even larger victory during future presidential elections.

Keisha Lance Bottoms

Former Atlanta mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms is currently on Biden’s administration, serving as the director of the Office of Public Engagement. Before she accepted that role, she was under consideration as Biden’s VP pick. We can only hope she’s looking for a larger role down the line.

Austin Davis

Austin Davis is currently Pennsylvania’s second-highest elected official. He’s young, driven, and full of energy. His current role as the lieutenant governor of Pennsylvania could prepare him for a future run as president. Although, these old tweets could haunt him.

Hakeem Jeffries

The first Black House Democratic leader, Hakeem Jeffries is qualified to run for president, but does he have the name recognition to win the top prize? Maybe not, but man does he have the drive and charisma.

Barbara Lee

Barbara Lee is a career politician who recently announced plans to launch her campaign for the California Senate. Does she have higher political aspirations?

Oprah Winfrey

This has less to do with politics and more to do with her astronomical popularity. Everyone loves Oprah Winfrey! If anything, Donald Trump proved that billionaires can win the presidency without any political experience. But here’s the difference. Oprah is smart, empathetic and beloved.

Dwayne Johnson

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson already shot down any rumors that he’ll be running for president in 2024, but it was seriously talked about for a while and was the premise for his sitcom, Young Rock.

Robert F. Smith

One of the richest Black people in the world, similar to Oprah, Smith could also make a serious bid for president because of his huge influence and presence.

Brandon Johnson

Brandon Johnson was once an unknown politician who had a goal of becoming the next Mayor of Chicago. In April 2023, he achieved it. If he has his eyes on the White House, don’t doubt him.

Antonio Delgado

Antonio Delgado is the current lieutenant governor of New York. He’s another young and energetic politician who has the charisma to galvanize a country.

Karen Bass

Karen Bass has made history before. In 2008, she became the first Black woman to serve as a speaker of a legislative body. Currently, she is the Mayor of Los Angeles, don’t be shocked if she has her eyes on a bigger prize.

Sylvester Turner

The Mayor of Houston has been a politician for more than 30 years, so he has the experience. If he tries to run for president, will he have a chance?

Laphonza Butler

Butler already made history last year after she became the third Black woman to ever serve in the U.S. Senate, maybe she could make more history as a presidential candidate in the future.

Summer Lee

Congresswoman Summer Lee is a progressive member of Congress who is as young and driven as anyone in politics today. She’s a fresh voice that young people could sway toward in the future.