Is Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Actually Electable in 2028?

Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) is gaining national attention as she tours the U.S. with Senator Bernie Sanders on their “Fighting Oligarchy Tour.” The tour recently pulled in over 12,000 people in Idaho, 20,000 in Utah, and 30,000 in a Trump-won district in California, raising questions about her political future—possibly even a run for the 2028 presidential election.

At a rally in Nampa, Idaho, AOC shouted to cheering supporters, “Impossible is nothing.” The moment was captured in a viral 90-second video that racked up 8.5 million views on X (formerly Twitter). It sparked speculation online and among analysts: Could the youngest woman ever elected to Congress become the youngest U.S. president?

While Ocasio-Cortez downplayed the moment, saying “It was just a video,” political experts and media commentators think otherwise. Chris Cillizza, a well-known commentator, said AOC is likely running and will be a powerful candidate, even if some Democrats underestimate her.

AOC’s Rising Support in the Polls

At 35 years old, AOC is now eligible to run for president. And polls show some Democrats are ready for her. A recent Quantus Insights poll of 700 Democratic voters put AOC as the second favorite for 2028 with 14% support. Vice President Kamala Harris topped the list with 30%, despite losing to Donald Trump in the 2024 election.

Experts like William F. Hall, professor at Webster University, believe AOC is a “serious threat” for the Democratic nomination. Her massive rally crowds and strong online presence suggest she has the energy and appeal that could carry her far.

The Challenge of Winning a National Election

Still, many analysts believe her road to the White House won’t be easy. Thomas Gift, a political scientist at University College London, warned that AOC will face the same problems Bernie Sanders did: being seen as too left-wing or even socialist in a country that leans center-right.

AOC is popular among young voters and progressives, but the general electorate includes moderate Democrats and swing voters. Her stances on issues like healthcare, immigration, and women’s rights could be seen as too extreme by some voters.

Polls show mixed views of her nationwide. A Gallup poll in January gave her a net favorability of -10% among all Americans. However, a Siena College poll in New York found 21% of Republicans view her favorably—up from just 6% in 2019.

Fundraising Power and Party Support

Despite doubts, AOC’s fundraising ability is impressive. She raised over $15 million during the 2023–2024 cycle and brought in a record-breaking $9.6 million in the first quarter of 2025. This came from 266,000 individual donors, with an average gift of just $21—proof of her strong grassroots support.

Some Democrats, like governors Josh Shapiro, Gretchen Whitmer, and Andy Beshear, may challenge her in the primaries. But if AOC wins, she could face a Republican opponent like Vice President JD Vance in the general election.

The Final Frontier: America’s First Female President?

If elected, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez would be the first woman and the youngest person ever to become President of the United States. Her long last name—Ocasio-Cortez—would even set a record as the longest surname of any U.S. president.

Experts remain divided. Some say she’s too progressive to win. Others warn Republicans not to underestimate her. Conservative commentator Monica Crowley said, “She’s young, vibrant, and has real grassroots support.”

Whether or not she runs, one thing is clear: AOC is already shaping the future of American politics.