Ocasio-Cortez’s Potential 2028 Presidential Bid
Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez seems to be positioning herself as a contender for the White House in 2028. Political analysts, including Republican strategist Colin Reid and Fox News contributor Richard Fowler, have noted her increasing influence in the political arena. They highlighted her upcoming national tour set to hit states like Pennsylvania, Georgia, Alabama, and Montana, suggesting that she could be aiming for a presidential run.
A recent University of New Hampshire poll indicates that Ocasio-Cortez is garnering 22% support among likely Democratic primary voters, placing her just ahead of former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, who stands at 21%, and significantly ahead of ex-Vice President Kamala Harris at 5%. This marks a notable rise for Ocasio-Cortez, gaining seven points since February, while both Harris and California Governor Gavin Newsom have experienced a decline.
Ocasio-Cortez’s prominence among Democratic voters in early primary states suggests she is solidifying her standing within the party. Though she hasn’t officially confirmed her intentions for 2028, she has not dismissed the possibility, mentioning her broader goal of “changing the country.”
Buttigieg, known for his moderate stance, previously ran in the 2020 Democratic primary and has been actively supporting fellow Democrats, fueling speculation about his potential candidacy.
Interestingly, a division exists among Democratic supporters; Ocasio-Cortez enjoys strong backing from socialists and progressives, while Buttigieg appeals to more liberal segments of the party. Other prominent names like Arizona Senator Mark Kelly and Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders also registered in the poll, but with lower percentages.
Meanwhile, Harris is still viewed as a significant figure nationally, leading some polls for the 2028 nomination, despite her underwhelming performance in New Hampshire. The early polls often reflect candidate name recognition rather than solid voter preference.
As for the Republican side, Vice President J.D. Vance leads with 36% support among New Hampshire voters, closely followed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio at 26%. Other candidates, including Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Kentucky Senator Rand Paul, are polling much lower. With Iowa and New Hampshire maintaining their roles as the first primary states, the 2028 race is beginning to shape up, though it remains fluid and could change as the election cycle progresses.
