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There’s growing speculation among progressive Democrats about Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) potentially making a bid for the presidency in 2028.
According to a report from Axios, these Democrats see Ocasio-Cortez as a natural successor to Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT). Insiders suggest that a presidential run could significantly elevate her national presence, possibly positioning her among the top five contenders and enabling her to amass over $100 million in campaign contributions.
“There’s a unique opportunity for a left-wing candidate that might not arise again for decades,” Axios reported. “The recent successes of democratic-socialist and liberal candidates in New York City and other regions could reshape the political landscape.”
Even if she doesn’t secure the presidency, Ocasio-Cortez’s supporters believe she could spotlight key progressive issues such as universal health care. This campaign could also serve as a springboard for a potential U.S. Senate run in New York, particularly if Democrat Minority Leader Chuck Schumer retires or if she chooses to challenge him in a primary.
“I anticipate she’ll pursue both paths and eventually become a senator,” predicted one political strategist.
Ari Rabin-Havt, a deputy campaign manager for Sanders in 2020, said that AOC “has earned her place as the top dog” for the hard left, adding that “if she does run, she obviously becomes the biggest star and sucks up the oxygen in that lane.”
In the meantime, Ocasio-Cortez has not expressed any interest in running for president in 2028. Other hard-left Democrats, like Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA), have also positioned themselves as potential flagbearers of the Sanders legacy.
“You have to give Ro credit: He’s worked his ass off to put himself in this position and has done what’s most comparable to Bernie pre-Bernie 2016,” Rabin-Havt said.
Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) has also been floated as a possible successor to Bernie Sanders.