Rep Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s Growing Influence and 2028 Presidential Campaign Speculation

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is gaining attention as a potential candidate for the 2028 presidential race. Her national tour has taken her to Pennsylvania, Georgia, Alabama, and Montana, suggesting she may be preparing for a serious bid for the White House. Fox News contributors Colin Reed and Richard Fowler have analyzed her increasing political influence. Fowler noted her ability to mobilize supporters around pivotal issues, highlighting her potential as a strong contender for leadership.

According to the University of New Hampshire Granite State Poll, Ocasio-Cortez has moved to the forefront of the Democratic presidential field in New Hampshire. Edging out Pete Buttigieg, she received 22% support among likely Democratic primary voters, pulling ahead by one point. Kamala Harris trailed far behind with 5% support, demonstrating Ocasio-Cortez’s growing strength among Democratic voters.

Ocasio-Cortez’s support increased by seven points since a previous survey in February, indicating her appeal is rising. Conversely, the support for Harris and California Governor Gavin Newsom has declined since February. Ocasio-Cortez has been cautious about her plans for 2028, not ruling out either a presidential run or a bid for the Senate against Democratic Leader Sen. Chuck Schumer. Her stated goal is to “change the country,” which keeps observers guessing about her future endeavors.

Pete Buttigieg, known for his moderate stance, has been actively supporting fellow Democrats nationwide, igniting speculation about his potential run in 2028. According to Andrew Smith, director of the University of New Hampshire Survey Center, nearly half of socialists and one-third of progressives support Ocasio-Cortez, whereas pluralities of liberals and moderates lean towards Buttigieg.

Sen. Mark Kelly from Arizona, with nine percent support, stood third in the poll. Gavin Newsom’s backing dropped by seven points since February. Independent Sen. Bernie Sanders, who historically has been a runner-up in Democratic presidential primaries, garnered six percent support. Despite Sanders being 84, he humorously dismissed another White House run, saying, “I know I look like I’m 30. I am not.”

Kamala Harris, the Democratic Party’s 2024 nominee after replacing President Joe Biden, showed minimal support in the poll. Her numbers have decreased from 10% in February to just 5%. Nonetheless, she remains a leading figure in national polls for the 2028 nomination, which often reflect the recognition of potential candidates.

The Democratic National Committee’s Rules and Bylaws panel is expected to propose a new nominating calendar for 2028, altering the traditional sequence. New Hampshire has held the first-in-the-nation presidential primary for a century, but South Carolina is now proposed to take the initial spot, changing the familiar order.

Among likely Republican primary voters in New Hampshire, Vice President JD Vance has received 36% support for the GOP presidential nomination. Secretary of State Marco Rubio follows closely with 26% support.

Sen. Rand Paul and former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, each obtaining eight percent support, are considered contenders. Former Florida Governor Ron DeSantis gained six percent backing, with other potential candidates at 4% or lower.