Could Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) be the future face of the Democratic Party? Known widely as AOC, she has emerged as a prominent figure in progressive politics. Her potential ambitions for higher office are now capturing national attention.

Recent reports indicate that Ocasio-Cortez is seriously considering either a presidential run in 2028 or a Senate challenge against Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), signaling her intent to shape the Democratic Party’s future, as The Hill reports.

Over the past year, Democrats have faced significant setbacks, losing control of the White House, Senate, and House. This string of defeats has left the party grappling with questions about its direction and messaging. Many within the party are now looking for new voices to lead.

Star power seen by Dems

Ocasio-Cortez has been viewed as a beacon of hope for Democrats during this challenging period. Her ability to connect with younger voters and progressives has made her a standout figure.

She has built a massive online presence, with tens of millions of followers across platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Bluesky.

Axios reports that she has invested millions into expanding this digital reach and compiling a robust list of donors and supporters.

Her fundraising capabilities are equally impressive, with millions raised through small-dollar donations. This financial strength, rare for a House member, positions her as a formidable contender in any future race.

Potential paths to higher office emerge

Speculation about her next steps intensified after Axios reported on Friday that Ocasio-Cortez is weighing a presidential bid in 2028.

Some Democrats have expressed excitement at the prospect, seeing her as a fresh face for a party in need of renewal.

Alternatively, a Senate run against Schumer has also been floated as a possibility.

During the summer, she held town halls in upstate New York, which some interpret as groundwork for such a challenge.

However, taking on Schumer would not be easy. A Democratic Party strategist noted, “Schumer sees her coming a f—— mile away,” highlighting his deep-rooted relationships in New York politics.

Strategic alliances, voter appeal

Ocasio-Cortez has aligned herself with influential figures like Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT), joining him on a national tour titled “Fighting Oligarchy.” This partnership could bolster her appeal among Sanders’s supporters if he opts out of future races.

Democratic Party strategist Rodell Mollineau commented on her potential to inherit this base, saying, “To the extent that Bernie Sanders is not running again, she has the opportunity to take that mantle and the voters who have fervently supported him, not to mention the next generation of young voters.”

Mollineau also cautioned, “That being said, anyone who can tell you where voters are going to be in 2028 is lying.” He suggested that her progressive stance could either energize or alienate voters, depending on the political climate.

Challenges, opportunities on horizon

Another factor in her political calculus is the New York City mayoral race, where she supports candidate Zohran Mamdani. Strategists warn that if Mamdani’s potential tenure as mayor falters, it could negatively impact her own prospects. One strategist predicted, “If it’s a complete train wreck, it’ll really hurt her chances.”

Despite these uncertainties, her unique strengths are said by some to be undeniable. Democratic Party strategist Joel Payne, who has not spoken with her directly, said, “One of her clear advantages is that she offers not only energy and a generational change but a built-in constituency.”

Payne added, “Very few people on either side of the aisle can offer that off the gate.” Regardless of the path she chooses, Ocasio-Cortez’s influence is poised to grow. Basil Smikle, a former executive director of the New York State Democratic Party, observed, “Her ascension in both government and politics does foreshadow a growing political movement.”