Pete Buttigieg is making surprising inroads with an unlikely audience: straight, right-leaning podcast bros. And as his profile rises, the former Transportation Secretary is fast becoming an early frontrunner for the 2028 US presidential election.
Over the past few months, Buttigieg has been popping up on comedy-leaning, bro-centric podcasts—the kind of platforms typically more welcoming to Donald Trump than a progressive Democrat. But Pete’s charm, humour, and straight-talking style are converting sceptical listeners into curious, if not supportive, voters.
One key example? His appearance on The Flagrant podcast, where he made a persuasive case for public investment in government research. The hosts, initially wary, were soon chuckling and nodding along.
“We’re turning into such libs already!” one exclaimed.
From “Mayor Pete” to Bro Whisperer
Now 43, Buttigieg has gone from small-town mayor to cabinet secretary to a Democratic powerhouse — and potentially the party’s best shot at reconnecting with young male voters who shifted right in the 2024 election cycle.
His recent cameo on Barstool Sports’ Pardon My Take — a podcast known more for sports banter than civil discourse — sealed his new rep as a “bro whisperer.” In a tongue-in-cheek segment, Buttigieg presented the “Lib of the Year” award to Jersey Jerry, a Barstool personality who’s had a public shift on social issues like immigration and vaccines.
“You’ve earned this — from your evolving perspective on immigration to being open to the idea that vaccines actually work,” Pete quipped.
“Relish this moment.”
His dry wit and natural delivery didn’t go unnoticed.
“It doesn’t feel forced when Pete does these things,” commented one X (formerly Twitter) user.
A New Strategy for Winning the Middle
Traditionally left-leaning young men swung right in 2024, influenced by appearances from Trump on podcasts like Joe Rogan, Theo Von, and Barstool Sports. But with disapproval of Trump’s performance growing — only one-third of under-30s now support him — Buttigieg sees an opening.
Rather than lead with outrage, Pete is leaning into humour, empathy and clear messaging. He breaks down healthcare, climate policy and economic equity in relatable terms — often using personal anecdotes from his life with husband Chasten and their journey as gay parents in conservative America.
“Politics, but make it gay,” as one fan quipped.
From South Bend to the National Stage
Buttigieg’s rise hasn’t been overnight. He’s been carefully honing his voice since being elected Mayor of South Bend, Indiana at just 29. As a military veteran, policy wonk, and openly gay public figure, he’s defied conventional political categories.
Now, he’s using his platform to reach people where they are — literally. Whether it’s on Fox News or bro podcasts, Pete keeps showing up, making the case for what effective liberal governance can look like.
His recent remarks about the GOP’s proposed healthcare cuts were widely shared online:
“If people go without health insurance, they end up in the emergency room. Their care becomes more expensive — not just for them, but for all of us through higher premiums.”
Early 2028 Polling: Pete Rises
New polling shows Buttigieg tied with California Governor Gavin Newsom at 12% in a hypothetical Democratic primary. Only Vice President Kamala Harris, who is unlikely to run, ranks higher.
With discontent simmering inside the Democratic base, there’s appetite for new, dynamic leadership. Buttigieg’s willingness to engage with critics, embrace nuance, and show up in unexpected places could give him a unique edge in a crowded 2028 field.
And as Pete put it with a wink to Jersey Jerry:
“We’ll talk again in a year — I’m expecting a three-peat.”
