Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is frequently mentioned as a potential candidate for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination. A recent poll suggests she would face strong competitors in the primary.
The Public Sentiment Institute (TPSI) conducted a hypothetical Democratic primary survey from July 25-29, targeting 762 likely voters in Michigan. Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg leads with 24.2 percent support. Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff is second among the named candidates with 13.9 percent, followed by Ocasio-Cortez at 10.7 percent, California Governor Gavin Newsom at 10.0 percent, and former Vice President Kamala Harris at 5.1 percent. Other candidates include Illinois Governor JB Pritzker at 3.8 percent and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro at 3.6 percent. The survey reveals 21.7 percent of voters are undecided. The margin of error is plus or minus 4 points at a 95 percent confidence level.
These results highlight a competitive primary field, with Ocasio-Cortez trailing several candidates. Newsweek reached out to her office for comment.
Prediction Markets Show a Competitive Democratic Contest
Early prediction markets also indicate no clear frontrunner for the 2028 nomination. Platforms such as Polymarket and Kalshi reflect uncertain odds among potential candidates, suggesting shifts in Democratic priorities over the next two years.
On Polymarket, Newsom has a 19 percent chance, Ocasio-Cortez and Ossoff are at 14 percent, Harris is at 9 percent, Buttigieg and Shapiro at 5 percent, and Pritzker at 1 percent. Kalshi shows similar results with Newsom at 18 percent, Ossoff at 15 percent, Ocasio-Cortez at 13 percent, Harris at 9.3 percent, Buttigieg at 5.5 percent, Shapiro at 4.5 percent, and Pritzker at 2.7 percent.
What 2028 Democratic Contenders Have Said About Their Plans
Harris, recently traveling to Michigan and South Carolina, suggested she might run again. In an April conversation with Reverend Al Sharpton, she expressed openness, emphasizing her experience as Vice President.
Newsom discussed the possibility of running in a June 2025 interview with The Wall Street Journal, noting he could envision pursuing the presidency.
Ocasio-Cortez, while speaking with David Axelrod, highlighted her ambitions to effect lasting change in the country, indicating presidential aspirations are not her primary focus.
Ossoff confirmed he does not plan to run for president. He stated his focus is on winning re-election in Georgia, where the Cook Political Report categorizes the race as ‘Lean Democratic.’