Rep. Ro Khanna (D-California), a self-described “progressive capitalist” considering a 2028 presidential bid, recently campaigned at the University of Central Florida (UCF) as part of a broader effort to engage young voters and build national momentum. Joining Florida Senate candidate Angie Nixon at a UCF town hall, Khanna outlined his vision for economic growth that blends progressive goals with a partnership between government and the private sector.

Khanna, who represents a Silicon Valley district, has sought to distinguish himself from other progressive figures like Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vermont) and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-New York), who generally emphasize curbing corporate power. Instead, Khanna’s approach aims to promote technology and manufacturing expansion—particularly in rural and underserved communities—through government incentives coupled with accountability measures for corporations. His plan includes encouraging tech companies to create jobs in areas outside the traditional hubs while requiring employers to pay living wages and remain neutral on union organizing efforts.

However, the “progressive capitalist” label presents a challenge. Some young voters remain skeptical of combining progressive ideals with capitalism. Carter Barnes, an 18-year-old political science student at UCF, described the term as contradictory, expressing hesitation toward the concept due to concerns that it ultimately prioritizes capitalist interests. Polling data from September shows nearly half of registered voters aged 18 to 29 hold a negative view of capitalism, underscoring the difficulty Khanna faces in gaining support for his economic framework.

Despite mixed reactions to his economic agenda, Khanna’s broader message attracted positive responses from many attendees, who applauded his willingness to cast a wide net on issues important to young voters. During the event, Khanna addressed Israel’s actions in Gaza and highlighted bipartisan efforts alongside Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Kentucky) to release the Jeffrey Epstein files. Some attendees defended Khanna when individuals identified as Trump supporters attempted to interrupt the discussion.

Supporters like Mohammed Al Najjar, a 22-year-old legal studies major, praised Khanna’s bipartisan approach, seeing value in blending capitalist and socialist principles within the U.S. economy. “Capitalism and socialism both have a place in America,” Al Najjar said, aligning with Khanna’s economic vision of private-sector growth tempered by expanded social protections.

Khanna also emphasized revitalizing American manufacturing with a focus on cleaner production methods. He supports investment in modern steelmaking technologies, such as hydrogen-based steel, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional coal-based processes. While some students questioned the economic viability of domestic manufacturing expansion due to higher costs relative to overseas production, Khanna asserts that such investments can create high-paying jobs and enable the U.S. to enforce stricter environmental standards than competitors like China.

Khanna indicated he plans to decide on a 2028 presidential run by the end of the year, with a public announcement possibly coming later. His decision hinges on familial support and assessing the current political climate, which he described as potentially “too toxic.” Khanna said he aims to meet a demand from voters who feel economically stagnant and seek leadership with a clear understanding of the modern economy.