Support for Ocasio-Cortez in 2028
Veteran Democratic strategist James Kerrville has expressed interest in backing Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) if a progressive candidate secures the party’s nomination for president in 2028.
During an appearance on MSNBC’s “The Beat” on Tuesday, Kerrville criticized the Democratic Party, stating that it lacks a clear message and indicated that the next presidential candidate would be determined by the party’s grassroots members.
“We have talent within the party, but I have a pretty low opinion of Democrats right now. I really don’t know who the leader is. It’s up to the Democrats to choose their leader,” Kerrville remarked.
“This decision won’t come from the media or votes; it’s going to be made by the voters within the party, and it needs to happen soon,” he told host Ali Melber.
Political veterans have shown a willingness to support Ocasio-Cortez, especially after the Democratic losses in the 2024 election, which included losing both the White House and the Senate.
“We lost the election, and while I’m not casting blame on the party’s reputation, if AOC wants to run for president and gets the nomination, that’s significant. She would then be the leader of the Democratic Party. I believe anyone who secures that nomination deserves recognition,” Kerrville added on Tuesday.
Melber seemed taken aback by Kerrville’s comments.
“You heard it here first: James Kerrville, who has previously criticized AOC, is now offering his support if she wins,” Melber stated.
Kerrville has historically been critical of progressive figures within the party, including Ocasio-Cortez and Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.).
“Bernie has run for president twice and lost both times. AOC and her supporters are focused on challenging other Democrats instead of Republicans. When you beat Republicans, feel free to come to me, and I will be impressed,” Kerrville remarked back in mid-April.
Ocasio-Cortez has been touring with Sanders this year, engaging voters across multiple states, raising questions about her political trajectory as Democrats seek new leadership after the 2024 election.
