A new poll is giving an early glimpse into the possible candidates for the 2028 U.S. presidential election, with Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez emerging as the leading choice among Democratic voters.
According to the latest AtlasIntel poll, Ocasio-Cortez, often known as AOC, received support from 26% of Democratic voters surveyed, marking the first time she has led a major potential 2028 Democratic primary poll.
AOC Leads Democratic Candidates
Behind Ocasio-Cortez in the poll were Pete Buttigieg and Gavin Newsom, who finished in second and third place among Democratic voters.
The poll suggests that progressive voices within the Democratic Party continue gaining influence ahead of the next presidential election cycle.
Although AOC has not officially announced a presidential campaign, growing support from Democratic voters has increased speculation about her political future.
AOC Responds to Presidential Rumors
Earlier this month, Ocasio-Cortez addressed questions about a possible presidential or Senate run during an interview with Democratic strategist David Axelrod.
“They assume that my ambition is a title or a seat,” she said during the conversation. “And my ambition is way bigger than that. My ambition is to change this country.”
She also emphasized that long-term policy goals matter more to her than political positions.
“Presidents come and go. Senate, House seats, elected officials come and go,” Ocasio-Cortez said. “But single-payer health care is forever, a living wage is forever, workers’ rights are forever.”
Her office has not officially commented on whether she plans to run in 2028.
Marco Rubio Leads Republican Polling
On the Republican side, Marco Rubio currently leads the field with 45.4% support among Republican primary voters.
Trailing Rubio are JD Vance and Ron DeSantis.
The early polling highlights Rubio’s growing popularity within the Republican Party as discussions about the post-Trump era continue.
Trump Praises Rubio and JD Vance
President Donald Trump recently commented on the future of the Republican Party during a White House event on May 11.
Trump described Rubio and Vance as a potential “perfect ticket” for the 2028 election but stopped short of giving an official endorsement.
“I do believe that’s a dream team,” Trump said. “I think it sounds like presidential candidate and vice presidential candidate.”
However, he also clarified that his comments should not be viewed as an official endorsement for either politician.
Early Polls Signal Growing 2028 Interest
While the 2028 presidential election is still years away, early polling is already shaping conversations about the future of both major political parties.
For Democrats, Ocasio-Cortez’s rise reflects growing support for progressive leadership. On the Republican side, Rubio’s strong polling numbers show he remains a major figure in conservative politics.
As potential candidates continue weighing future campaigns, political analysts expect polling numbers and party dynamics to shift significantly over the next few years.
