Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has emerged as the Democratic Party’s most popular elected official. The freshman congresswoman’s bold vision and political talent are increasingly viewed as assets that could reshape the Democratic Party’s future and present a significant challenge to Republicans. What factors are contributing to Kamala Harris being viewed as a weak frontrunner?
AOC’s Rising Political Star
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has established herself as a dominant force within the Democratic Party since her stunning 2018 primary victory. A recent Yale University poll reveals she now boasts the highest net favorability rating among potential 2028 Democratic presidential candidates at an impressive 62%, with 41% of Democrats holding a “strongly favorable” opinion of her.
These polling numbers place AOC in a strong position for a potential 2028 presidential run, where she currently ranks second in a hypothetical Democratic primary with 21% support. Her widespread name recognition is another crucial advantage, with only 11.7% of Democrats reporting unfamiliarity with the congresswoman.
Yale presidential poll, 2028:
1. VP Kamala 27.5%
2. Rep. AOC 21.3%
3. Buttigieg 14.0%
4. Newsom 6.4%Democrats are f*cked pic.twitter.com/ZGYzmshAWL
— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) April 15, 2025
The Harris-AOC Primary Battle
While Kamala Harris currently leads in early 2028 polling, political analysts increasingly view her as a vulnerable frontrunner. Harris’s previous electoral challenges and perceived weaknesses have created an opening for AOC to potentially secure significant support from the progressive wing of the party.
AOC’s potential candidacy would likely draw strong backing from influential figures like Senator Bernie Sanders, whose progressive coalition could rally behind her. The congresswoman’s ability to energize young voters and progressives makes her a potentially formidable candidate in a primary race against established Democratic figures.
There it is….
CNN just said AOC will be president in 2028.
Please run her.
pic.twitter.com/v7p9NgeBS2— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) April 15, 2025
Challenges and Criticisms
Critics point to AOC’s limited political experience and controversial policy positions as potential liabilities in a national campaign. Her Green New Deal proposal and strong anti-fossil fuel stance have drawn particular criticism from moderates and conservatives who view these positions as too extreme.
Some detractors also highlight perceived contradictions between AOC’s working-class message and certain lifestyle choices, such as her attendance at the Met Gala. These criticisms echo familiar attacks against progressive politicians who advocate for economic justice while navigating the realities of political prominence.
Despite these challenges, AOC’s bold vision and authentic political style continue to resonate with a significant portion of Democratic voters. Her ability to generate enthusiasm comparable to Donald Trump’s impact on the Republican base suggests she could mobilize the progressive movement in ways few other Democratic figures can match.