Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s standing among young voters appears to be waning, according to recent polling data, even as she gains traction in the early stages of the 2028 presidential race. A CNN/SSRS poll released this week found that only 28% of voters aged 18 to 34 hold a favorable view of the New York Democrat, while just 22% of politically significant independent voters express support. Her overall approval rating nationwide stands at 26%, with 36% viewing her unfavorably—a decline from January figures, when 27% rated her favorably and 32% unfavorably.

This dip in approval contrasts with the broader success of left-leaning candidates and groups. Democratic Socialists of America, despite notable election victories in states such as New York and Colorado, hold a lower favorability rating of 18%. The DSA’s agenda, including proposals to abolish the Senate and reduce Pentagon funding, has sparked criticism from some Democrats both in New York and beyond. The poll also indicates that about one-third of Democrats and Democratic-leaning voters now identify as democratic socialists.

Ocasio-Cortez’s counterpart in New York politics, Mayor Mamdani, fares slightly better among the public, with a 30% favorable rating compared to 35% unfavorable. Meanwhile, a University of New Hampshire poll released recently places Ocasio-Cortez at the forefront of the Democratic field in that critical presidential primary state. She commands 22% support among likely voters, up from 15% in February and 14% in October 2025. Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg follows closely at 21%, with Senator Mark Kelly trailing at 9%.

Political analysts underscore the significance of Ocasio-Cortez’s position in New Hampshire, a state long known for its early influence on presidential nominations. Dante Scala, a political science professor at the University of New Hampshire, described Ocasio-Cortez as “a brand” and suggested she may be positioning herself as the ideological successor to Senator Bernie Sanders. Sanders, who finished second to Buttigieg in New Hampshire in 2020, previously defeated Hillary Clinton there in 2016 but fell short of securing the nomination.

The dynamics of the nominating calendar may complicate Ocasio-Cortez’s campaign plans. A Democratic National Committee panel recently voted to move South Carolina—the state with a more racially diverse electorate—ahead in the primary schedule, potentially altering traditional momentum-building patterns.

Ocasio-Cortez, 36, continues to face questions about her future political ambitions. Though she leads in early polls in New Hampshire, her ultimate decision on whether to run for president or challenge Senator Charles Schumer of New York in the 2028 election remains unresolved. Schumer, 75, currently holds a powerful position in the Senate, setting the stage for a potentially high-profile primary contest.