Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Weighs 2028 Run for President or Senate Seat

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is preparing a fall schedule of campaign stops and public appearances to test her appeal beyond her strongest supporters. The schedule will also assess her readiness for a potential national campaign. The New York congresswoman, 36, has not decided whether to run for president, for the Senate seat held by Sen.

Chuck Schumer, or for re-election to her House district in 2028. She has told people close to her that she does not want to run as a protest candidate and intends to win any race she enters.

Ocasio-Cortez has endorsed candidates in recent primaries in New Jersey, California, and Montana. Pennsylvania state legislator Chris Rabb said her endorsement in his May primary helped open doors for other progressive candidates. Georgia state Rep.

Ruwa Romman said Ocasio-Cortez asked whether an endorsement would help her state Senate campaign and later met with her during a visit to the state. Ocasio-Cortez has declined to endorse some candidates backed by Sen. Bernie Sanders and Sen. Elizabeth Warren.

At the Munich Security Conference in February, Ocasio-Cortez was asked whether the United States should commit troops to defend Taiwan. She responded by referencing longstanding U.S. policy and expressing hope that conflict could be avoided. People familiar with her reaction said she was surprised by subsequent criticism and has since decided to continue speaking on issues without extensive preparation for unscripted international settings.

Ocasio-Cortez continues to work on the House Energy and Commerce Committee and has maintained relationships with both progressive groups and former President Joe Biden.