The recent election of Zohran Mamdani as New York City mayor has energized members of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), with many now viewing Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez as the movement’s strongest potential candidate for the 2028 U.S. presidential election.
Supporters argue that the momentum generated by Mamdani’s success could pave the way for a broader national campaign led by one of the country’s most recognizable progressive lawmakers.
Mamdani Win Fuels Progressive Ambitions
The DSA’s enthusiasm follows its role in supporting Zohran Mamdani, whose victory has been celebrated by members as evidence that democratic socialist candidates can compete successfully in major elections.
Activists believe the outcome demonstrates growing voter support for progressive policies and has strengthened calls for the organization to back a presidential contender in the next election cycle.
Many within the group see Ocasio-Cortez as the natural choice, arguing that the political environment may be more favorable than ever for a candidate closely aligned with democratic socialist ideals.
Internal Support Builds for Ocasio-Cortez
During the DSA’s recent national convention in Chicago, members discussed the possibility of endorsing Ocasio-Cortez for the White House.
According to attendees, several organizers expressed confidence that she represents the organization’s best opportunity to compete on a national stage.
Katie Sims, an electoral organizer from Ithaca, New York, reportedly argued that the movement should fully commit to backing its preferred candidate rather than relying on better-funded establishment campaigns.
When asked whether the organization should consider any alternative presidential hopefuls, she reportedly said there was no other option.
Another member told reporters that years of organizing alongside Ocasio-Cortez had convinced many activists that she now possesses a genuine path to the presidency.
Convention Discussions Focus on 2028 Strategy
The Chicago gathering also included private discussions about establishing a formal process for a possible presidential endorsement.
Supporters believe that endorsing Ocasio-Cortez would expand the DSA’s influence beyond its traditional strongholds, allowing the organization to compete in states and regions where it has historically had little electoral presence.
Some members argued that the risks associated with such an endorsement are outweighed by the opportunity to increase the group’s national profile and strengthen its long-term political relevance.
Complex Relationship Between AOC and the DSA
Despite being one of the most prominent politicians associated with the democratic socialist movement, Ocasio-Cortez’s relationship with the national DSA organization has not always been smooth.
In 2024, the organization withdrew its endorsement of the New York congresswoman, citing disagreements over her positions related to Israel.
The group has also advocated for abolishing the U.S. Senate, a proposal that Ocasio-Cortez declined to support publicly, highlighting policy differences between the lawmaker and some activists within the organization.
Requests for comment were reportedly sent to both Ocasio-Cortez and the DSA regarding the latest discussions.
Ocasio-Cortez Remains Noncommittal About Presidential Plans
Although speculation surrounding a potential White House campaign has intensified, Ocasio-Cortez has avoided confirming any presidential ambitions.
Speaking to Fox News in late July, she said she had not seriously considered political decisions beyond the upcoming midterm elections.
She added that she was observing the growing public discussion surrounding her future in the same way as many others.
Political observers have suggested she could either pursue the presidency or challenge Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer for his Senate seat in 2028.
Progressive Influence Continues to Expand
Even without declaring a presidential campaign, Ocasio-Cortez has continued to build influence within the Democratic Party through endorsements in competitive races.
She backed Mamdani during the New York City mayoral contest and also supported congressional candidates Analilia Mejia and Adam Hamawy in New Jersey.
More recently, she endorsed progressive candidate Abdul El-Sayed in Michigan’s Democratic Senate primary, reinforcing her growing role as a key figure among the party’s progressive wing.
Crowded Democratic Field Already Taking Shape
The Democratic Party is expected to face a highly competitive presidential primary in 2028, with several prominent figures widely viewed as potential contenders.
Names frequently mentioned include former California Governor Gavin Newsom, former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, and former Vice President Kamala Harris, among others.
Polling Shows Harris Holding Early Advantage
While enthusiasm among democratic socialists has boosted discussion around Ocasio-Cortez, early polling indicates that Harris remains the leading choice among Democratic voters.
A recent Big Data survey placed Harris at 30 percent support, well ahead of the rest of the prospective field. Newsom followed with 10 percent, while Ocasio-Cortez received 9 percent.
According to the poll, Harris led among Black, White, Hispanic and Asian Democrats, as well as voters under the age of 30.
The survey also found Harris holding a significant advantage over Ocasio-Cortez among respondents who identified themselves as democratic socialists, underscoring the challenges the New York congresswoman could face if she ultimately enters the race.
