New York Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has indicated she is weighing a potential run for the U.S. Senate or the presidency, contingent on the outcome of the upcoming midterm elections. Speaking last week, Ocasio-Cortez said she plans to make any formal decisions about a future campaign after the November midterms have concluded.

The congresswoman, known for her progressive stance and support from controversial figures such as streamer Hasan Piker, has committed to actively supporting Democratic candidates across House and Senate races this election cycle. She noted that the midterms will provide valuable insights into the viability of left-leaning candidates nationwide.

Several progressives are on the ballot this year, including Michigan Senate hopeful Abdul El-Sayed, Florida Senate candidate Angie Nixon, and House candidates Darializa Avila Chevalier in New York and Melat Kiros in Colorado, the latter having recently unseated an incumbent Democrat in her primary.

Among Democrats, Ocasio-Cortez is increasingly viewed as a leading contender for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination. Supporters point to her high name recognition, fundraising capabilities, and appeal to voters seeking a candidate willing to challenge the political establishment. One senior Democratic official compared her communications skills favorably to those of former President Barack Obama, highlighting her ability to translate complex ideas into accessible messages.

The political climate appears to be shaped by widespread dissatisfaction with economic inequality and corporate influence, notably targeting billionaires, Big Tech, and major corporations. Analysts draw parallels to the anti-establishment sentiment seen during the 2016 election, although the focus of voter anger has shifted.

Ocasio-Cortez and Senator Bernie Sanders began jointly promoting a "Fighting Oligarchy" platform in early 2025, drawing large crowds, including in traditionally conservative and swing areas.

Changes to the Democratic primary calendar for the 2028 election could further benefit Ocasio-Cortez. South Carolina will hold the first primary contest instead of New Hampshire, followed by Nevada and then New Hampshire. These states feature significant Black, Latino, and unionized voter populations, demographics where Ocasio-Cortez’s progressive message may resonate strongly.

Polling data recently released by Bowling Green State University and YouGov indicates that Ocasio-Cortez is gaining traction nationally in the 2028 field, tied with California Governor Gavin Newsom in third place behind former Vice President Kamala Harris and former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.