Potential Democratic Contenders for the 2028 Presidential Election

Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is gaining attention as a potential candidate for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination. Despite her prominence, a recent poll indicates a competitive primary field.

Poll Shows Competitive Primary Field

The Public Sentiment Institute (TPSI) conducted a poll from July 25-29, surveying 762 likely voters in Michigan. It shows former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg leading with 24.2% support. 21.7% of respondents remain undecided, highlighting early volatility. Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff ranks second among named candidates with 13.9%, followed closely by Ocasio-Cortez at 10.7%. California Governor Gavin Newsom has 10.0% support, and former Vice President Kamala Harris 5.1%. Other candidates include Illinois Governor JB Pritzker at 3.8% and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro at 3.6%. The poll has a margin of error of plus or minus 4 points at 95% confidence.

These numbers suggest Ocasio-Cortez is notable within the Democratic Party but trails several high-profile rivals. Newsweek reached out to her office for comment.

Prediction Markets Indicate Competitive Race

Early prediction markets also point to a competitive contest for the nomination. Platforms like Polymarket and Kalshi show fluctuating odds among candidates, indicating uncertainty in the race and possible shifts in Democratic priorities over the next few years.

While prediction markets offer insight into public sentiment, they are not polls and don’t measure direct voter support. On Polymarket, Newsom has a 19% chance, Ocasio-Cortez and Ossoff 14%, Harris 9%, Buttigieg and Shapiro 5%, and Pritzker 1%. On Kalshi, Newsom stands at 18%, Ossoff at 15%, Ocasio-Cortez at 13%, Harris 9.3%, Buttigieg 5.5%, Shapiro 4.5%, and Pritzker 2.7%.

Contenders’ Statements on 2028 Plans

Kamal Harris, who has traveled widely, hinted at a possible run without formal announcements. She shared thoughts with Reverend Al Sharpton in April, emphasizing her proximity to the presidency during her vice-presidential tenure and her knowledge of the job.

“I might. I am thinking about it,” she said.

Newsom discussed running during a June 2025 interview, stating he is not actively considering it but acknowledges it could be a possibility.

“I’m not thinking about running, but it’s a path that I could see unfold,” he said.

Ocasio-Cortez described her ambition to change the country rather than focus exclusively on presidential aspirations. She shared these thoughts in a conversation with David Axelrod.

“Presidents come and go. Senate, House seats, elected officials come and go. But single-payer healthcare is forever. A living wage is forever, workers’ rights are forever, women’s rights, all of that, and so anyways…to a finer point to your question is that when you aren’t attached…it is tremendously liberating.”

Ossoff, focusing on his current role, stated he has no interest in running in 2028 and aims to win reelection in Georgia this year.

“I am not running for president in 2028,” he said. “I am laser-focused on winning reelection in Georgia.”