2028 is about to take a major turn.
The possibility of Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez entering the 2028 presidential race is once again generating discussion after leaders within the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) publicly praised the idea.
Although Ocasio-Cortez has not announced any plans to seek the White House, comments from top DSA officials suggest that many progressive activists see her as a potential national leader heading into the next presidential election cycle.
DSA Signals Strong Support
During an appearance on MSNBC’s MS NOW, DSA New York City Co-Chair Gustavo Gordillo said many members of the organization would enthusiastically support Ocasio-Cortez if she decided to pursue the Democratic nomination in 2028.
When asked whether the DSA was already preparing for the next presidential primary, Gordillo said the organization intends to influence the race, although it is too early to back a specific candidate.
He added that many members would be “thrilled” if Ocasio-Cortez entered the contest, while emphasizing that the decision ultimately rests with the New York congresswoman.
The remarks underscore Ocasio-Cortez’s growing influence among progressive activists as Democrats begin looking beyond the current election cycle.
Progressive Candidates Gain Momentum
The comments follow a string of victories for candidates backed by the Democratic Socialists of America.
In Colorado, first-time candidate Melat Kiros defeated longtime Democratic Rep. Diana DeGette, ending the veteran lawmaker’s decades-long tenure in Congress.
The progressive movement also celebrated victories in New York, where community organizer Darializa Avila Chevalier defeated longtime Democratic Rep. Adriano Espaillat in a primary contest. Another DSA-supported candidate, Claire Valdez, also secured a congressional primary victory to succeed retiring Rep. Nydia Velázquez.
The wins have fueled speculation that progressive candidates could play a larger role inside the Democratic Party ahead of 2028.
Ocasio-Cortez Backs Progressive Challengers
Ocasio-Cortez has openly supported many of the progressive candidates who have challenged incumbent Democrats.
Some of those endorsements have drawn criticism because of past controversial remarks made by certain candidates. One example involved Chevalier, who previously used explicit language while criticizing the United States.
Despite those concerns, Ocasio-Cortez has urged fellow Democrats not to dismiss younger progressive candidates before giving them an opportunity to serve.
Speaking during an interview with MSNBC, she argued that lawmakers should avoid making assumptions about new candidates and instead evaluate them based on their ideas and qualifications.
Her comments reflect the broader debate taking place within the Democratic Party over its future direction and leadership.
2028 Presidential Questions Continue
Despite growing speculation, Ocasio-Cortez has stopped short of saying whether she intends to run for president.
When asked recently about a possible White House campaign, she declined to rule out the possibility while refusing to make any commitment.
“Could I be president? Could I not be president? Maybe, maybe not,” she said.
The response has done little to quiet speculation about her political future.
Why It Matters
The Democratic Socialists of America remains one of the country’s most influential progressive political organizations, and its recent success in Democratic primaries suggests its candidates continue gaining traction in some districts.
For Republicans and conservative voters, the group’s growing influence is likely to become a major talking point as Democrats begin shaping the field for the next presidential election.
Whether Ocasio-Cortez ultimately enters the race remains unknown. However, public encouragement from DSA leadership is certain to keep her name in the conversation as attention gradually shifts toward the 2028 campaign.
