In a striking turn of events, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly acknowledged that President Trump warrants considerable credit for facilitating the recent peace agreement concerning Gaza. In a subsequent statement, he pointed toward Kamala Harris as the optimal Democratic nominee for the 2028 election.
Kelly’s remarks unfolded during an interview on CNN with Dana Bash yesterday morning.
Below is an excerpt from the conversation:
BASH: What level of credit does President Trump deserve for this deal?
KELLY: I think he deserves a significant portion of the credit. This was indeed his undertaking. He arranged for Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to negotiate. Thus far, we’ve seen positive outcomes. My hope is for the release of hostages—maybe not immediately, but I believe it could happen by Monday. That’s progress. It’s essential now for the Saudis and Emiratis to fulfill their promises regarding the reconstruction of Gaza, given that a staggering 90 percent of the housing has been decimated. It’s a devastating reality. The arrival of 600 aid trucks is a step in the right direction; this is the kind of support we should have seen over the last two years to aid those in dire need.
BASH: Considering your insights and past visits to the region during this crisis, I’m curious about the numerous challenges within the 20-point plan, especially regarding point six and the potential disarmament of Hamas. How feasible do you see that scenario?
KELLY: I believe it’s within the realm of possibility, although I’m apprehensive that they might reconsider. They’re currently in a complicated position, especially as the Iranian support, their traditional ally, has waned even from just months ago. It’s becoming evident to them that circumstances are not favoring their agenda, which is a positive development. This scenario could actually facilitate the agreement; it’s timely, although, as you rightly pointed out, there are twenty—or even twenty-one—components in this schema, and many prerequisites must be met to achieve lasting peace.
For further insights, check out the clip below:
Democrat Senator Mark Kelly asserts President Trump deserves commendation for his role in the Gaza peace initiative.
KELLY: “I think he should get a lot of credit. This was his deal, and he collaborated with Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to negotiate… [this agreement] signifies progress.” pic.twitter.com/RoqKPzBCuu
— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) October 12, 2025
Following his CNN appearance, Kelly subsequently joined NBC News with Kristen Welker, appearing to endorse Kamala Harris for the Democratic nomination in 2028.
“Absolutely,” he affirmed when queried about Harris’s candidacy. “She was the nominee last time… I believe she would be incredibly strong.”
Mark Kelly believes Kamala would make an “incredibly strong” presidential candidate for the Democrats in 2028.
Yes. Go for it. Please. pic.twitter.com/bkHM7VEiRh
— Western Lensman (@WesternLensman) October 12, 2025
Once a candidate considered for Kamala Harris’s running mate after Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the race, Kelly was ultimately overlooked in favor of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.
