Ocasio-Cortez Considering Presidential Run in 2028
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the influential figure in New York’s Progressive “Squad,” is reportedly contemplating a presidential run for the 2028 election.
According to a report from Axios, sources close to her team are weighing options for her future, whether it be a Senate bid or entering the presidential race.
This past summer, Ocasio-Cortez aimed to bolster her profile by joining Senator Bernie Sanders on his “Fighting Oligarchy” tour, hosting various town halls across upstate New York, and successfully raising around $15 million.
Interestingly, she’s brought in a former senior advisor to Sanders to help navigate her political future.
If she decides to seek a Senate seat, Ocasio-Cortez would go up against incumbent Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, who has been in the Senate since 1999. While Schumer has deep roots, Ocasio-Cortez represents a push for a change in leadership among younger Democrats.
Some close allies of Ocasio-Cortez believe that even if she doesn’t see herself winning the presidency, a run could still advocate for the Progressive Wing of the Democratic Party, according to Axios.
Her youth, progressive platform, and significant social media presence—36.7 million followers across various platforms—give her a notable edge compared to other potential candidates like Schumer.
“Her team has invested heavily in digital advertising this year, generating a large number of small donations,” noted a media and politics newsletter.
Furthermore, she has experienced explosive organic growth on social media, adding millions of followers across platforms including Instagram and TikTok.
If Ocasio-Cortez pursues the presidency, she would face a competitive field of established Democratic leaders, including California Governor Gretchen Whitmer, former Vice President Kamala Harris, and ex-Transport Secretary Pete Buttigieg.
“Her support base has broader appeal than Bernie Sanders in many respects,” an observer remarked. “She’s been in the national spotlight since her first election and brings campaign experience that others are still trying to gain.”
“To think you can’t win against the 2028 contenders would be a bit presumptuous,” the source added.
