Interest in the upcoming 2028 Democratic presidential race is rising, especially given the current economy and the legacy of Trump’s presidency. Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg is already making his rounds in Iowa, but the spotlight seems to be on Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez from New York.
There’s a growing appreciation for her potential in the presidential race.
Political analyst Nate Silver, who founded 538.com, has pointed out that Ocasio-Cortez is becoming a leading contender for the Democratic nomination. While some party members worry that her passion may hinder efforts to reclaim the White House, her influence is real. She may not be the most obvious front-runner, but certainly poses a significant challenge.
Ocasio-Cortez has captured media attention, often alongside Senator Bernie Sanders. Events she holds in more conservative areas draw large, enthusiastic crowds. In fact, Republicans in Congress seem so frustrated they can’t even engage effectively with their own party members.
She could tap into the voter base that Sanders cultivated during the 2016 and 2020 elections, a valuable asset in a primary race that could turn out to be quite competitive. Her ties with Sanders and the progressive community could mobilize many small donations for her campaign.
The competition for the nomination appears to be wide open. Though former Vice President Kamala Harris is seen as an initial front-runner, her support from Democrats is limited—only about a quarter express strong backing for her. This is surprising, given her recent position in leadership. Interestingly, she might also be considering a run for governor of California in 2026.
Younger voters are increasingly important. The only other Democrats polling in the double digits include Buttigieg, who is 43, and Ocasio-Cortez, who is 35—both younger than Harris, who is 60. There’s a noticeable desire for youthful leadership, and Ocasio-Cortez has the energy to invigorate the party’s campaigns.
On the Republican side, possible candidates could include Donald Trump Jr. or Vice President JD Vance, both in their 40s. Reflecting on history, John F. Kennedy won the presidency at 43, presenting a youthful alternative to the older Eisenhower administration. Ocasio-Cortez noted, “I think we believe our best days are before us, so I think I’m running for president,” leveraging her youthful perspective effectively.
Despite her significant strengths, Ocasio-Cortez has entered a race currently burdened with challenges. As a representative from New York City, she inherits a dedicated base from Sanders, and her Hispanic heritage might also resonate well with Latino voters. However, Sanders struggled to connect with African American voters, a crucial demographic for Democrats, which could strengthen Harris’s position.
There’s concern within the Democratic establishment about Ocasio-Cortez’s progressive ideology, leading to potential unification against her candidacy. Many in the party, as well as Republicans who’ve underestimated her, remember how Trump rose in 2016. Ocasio-Cortez’s prior success in winning two terms shows her capability as a progressive leader. Discontent with the current state of affairs seems to be a common sentiment among voters.
Prominent figures like former President Barack Obama and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi might not fully support Harris in 2024 when Biden steps aside. Their reluctance hints at a broader unease about retaining the presidency, especially if another candidate like Ocasio-Cortez emerges.
Some Democratic leaders may lean towards more traditional figures, such as Michigan’s Governor Gretchen Whitmer. However, Ocasio-Cortez has successfully carved out a niche, much like Trump did, by appealing to populist sentiments.
Should Ocasio-Cortez decide against running for president, there’s still potential room for another younger progressive like 48-year-old Representative Ro Khanna, who may also resonate with voters seeking change.
