Sanders Says AOC Could Run in 2028

Sen. Bernie Sanders told Axios that Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is “a very, very good politician” who connects with working-class voters and could be a formidable contender for higher office, whether by challenging Sen. Chuck Schumer or mounting a 2028 presidential bid. Sanders cited their joint “Fighting Oligarchy” tour, which drew large crowds including in red states, and praised AOC’s background and retail politicking. He also expressed optimism about the progressive wing, naming lawmakers such as Greg Casar, Pramila Jayapal, Ilhan Omar and Maxwell Frost as future leaders. Coverage notes AOC’s rising national profile on betting markets (she remains behind Gavin Newsom) but also flags controversies, including reports of more than $200,000 in private-jet travel while campaigning and provocative public remarks. Conservative outlets have framed Sanders’s comments as evidence of a leftward shift in the Democratic Party and highlighted intra-left disputes and reported links between some progressives and radical online groups.