Progressive Groups Urge Ocasio-Cortez and Khanna to Run for President

Progressive Campaign for 2028

Progressive organizations RootsAction and Progressive Democrats of America are advocating for Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York and Ro Khanna to enter the 2028 Democratic presidential primary. Their campaign emerges from a belief in the importance of having progressive voices leading the Democratic ticket.

Without a progressive populist advocate atop the ticket, the Democratic response would be woefully underwhelming.

The campaign follows their previous initiative, “Run, Bernie, Run,” preceding Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders’ 2016 run, marking a significant moment for progressives. According to the groups’ statement, neither Ocasio-Cortez nor Khanna was informed before the campaign’s announcement, though there’s strong interest in seeing their participation.

Newsweek attempted to get comments from spokespersons for both lawmakers.

Early Political Maneuvering

Potential candidates typically announce presidential bids after midterm elections. However, names like Kamala Harris, Gavin Newsom, and Pete Buttigieg are already visiting primary states to bolster recognition and connect with voters.

Initial polls can impact a candidate’s fundraising capabilities and media attention by indicating viability and name recognition. Kamala Harris leads current assessments. Echelon Insights shows Harris at 18 percent, while Ocasio-Cortez and Khanna garner 11 percent and 1 percent, respectively. The poll surveyed 1,002 likely voters with a margin of error of plus or minus 3.4 percentage points.

FocalData’s survey places Harris at 31 percent, with 2,178 adults polled during late August to early September 2026.

Lawmakers’ Perspectives on 2028

Ocasio-Cortez discussed presidential ambitions in May, suggesting legislative and policy goals matter more than personal political ambitions.

Presidents come and go. Senate, House seats, elected officials come and go. But single-payer healthcare is forever.

Khanna revealed serious contemplation about a 2028 run in an NPR interview, emphasizing the need for transformative leadership to avoid national crises. He champions economic patriotism aimed at revitalizing communities beyond tech hubs.

Khanna states that Ocasio-Cortez’s choice to run will not influence his decision.