Progressive groups have called on Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Ro Khanna to enter the 2028 Democratic presidential primary. The organizations, RootsAction and Progressive Democrats of America, have initiated a campaign urging these lawmakers to run after the 2026 midterm elections. Previously, Progressive Democrats of America launched the ‘Run, Bernie, Run’ campaign, supporting Bernie Sanders’ notable 2016 presidential run. The campaign marked a significant moment for the progressive movement.
In a joint statement released on Monday, the groups emphasized the ‘crucial’ need for progressives to lead the Democratic ticket. They warned that without a progressive advocate, the Democratic response could be inadequate, enabling right-wing agendas to sway voter unrest negatively. The groups did not inform Ocasio-Cortez or Khanna in advance about the campaign but expressed a clear desire for their participation in the race.
Newsweek sought comments from spokespersons for Ocasio-Cortez and Khanna via email.
AOC and Ro Khanna’s Chances in Polls
Presidential candidates typically announce their intentions after midterms, yet potential candidates are already engaging with key primary states. Building name recognition and testing messages are vital steps in preparing for the 2028 contest.
Early polls, though not definitive, influence candidates significantly. They affect perceptions among donors and voters about a candidate’s viability, impacting fundraising and media focus. Recent polls place former Vice President Kamala Harris ahead among primary voters, indicating her strong recognition among Democrats.
Other notable contenders include California Governor Gavin Newsom, former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly, and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro. The latest survey by Echelon Insights indicates Ocasio-Cortez with 11 percent and Khanna at 1 percent, while Harris leads at 18 percent, followed by Buttigieg and Newsom. The survey of 1,002 likely voters has a margin of error of 3.4 percentage points.
A FocalData poll similarly positions Ocasio-Cortez at 10 percent and Khanna again at 1 percent. Harris leads with 31 percent, followed by Newsom with 13 percent. This poll surveyed 2,178 adults with results from August 28 to September 2, 2026.
Ocasio-Cortez and Khanna on 2028 Speculation
In May, Ocasio-Cortez discussed presidential rumors with David Axelrod, a former advisor to President Barack Obama. She expressed a dedication to transformative policies over individual ambitions, saying, “Presidents come and go. Senate, House seats, elected officials come and go. But single-payer healthcare is forever.” This stance suggests a focus on lasting changes.
Ro Khanna has openly considered a 2028 run, telling NPR in August that the country needs significant changes to avoid breaking. He advocates for a new social contract and emphasizes economic patriotism, aiming for economic well-being across diverse communities, not limited to Silicon Valley. Khanna’s decision will not depend on Ocasio-Cortez’s actions, showcasing his independent vision.
Contact points for this story remain with Newsweek editors Jason Lemon and Gray R. Thomas.
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