Ocasio-Cortez’s Growing Influence

Republican strategist Colin Reed and Fox News contributor Richard Fowler recently analyzed the increasing political influence of Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. During her national tour, she visited Pennsylvania, Georgia, Alabama, and Montana, raising speculation about a potential 2028 presidential run. Fowler emphasized her ability to galvanize supporters on key issues, positioning her as a formidable candidate for leadership.

Leading in Early Polls

In New Hampshire, Ocasio-Cortez now leads among prospective 2028 Democratic presidential candidates, surpassing Pete Buttigieg and leaving Kamala Harris significantly behind. According to the University of New Hampshire Granite State Poll, she garnered 22% support among likely Democratic voters. Ocasio-Cortez’s support increased by seven points since February, while Harris and California Gov. Gavin Newsom saw declines, underscoring the New York lawmaker’s growing clout among Democrats in early battleground states.

Other Potential Candidates

Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg trails Ocasio-Cortez by one point, while Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona, a retired astronaut, ranks third with 9%. In contrast, Kamala Harris, who was the Democratic nominee in 2024, only received 5% support, a drop from 10% in February. Although her numbers are low in New Hampshire, national polls show her as a strong contender for the 2028 nomination. Such surveys often reflect candidates’ name recognition early in the presidential cycle.

Upcoming Decision on Primary Calendar

New Hampshire historically hosted the first-in-the-nation primary until Democrats changed the order for the 2024 cycle, placing South Carolina first. The Democratic National Committee is likely to introduce a new calendar for the 2028 cycle soon. Meanwhile, Republicans are maintaining Iowa as their first caucus state.

Republican Candidates

On the Republican side, Vice President JD Vance leads with 36% support in New Hampshire, followed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio at 26%. Other notable contenders include Senator Rand Paul and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, each with 8%, and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis with 6% support.