Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., has not ruled out a 2028 presidential run, telling Fox News Digital her focus remains on protecting Medicaid and other Democratic priorities—but not denying her long-term political ambitions.
Asked about growing speculation sparked by a recent campaign-style video posted to her account on X, Ocasio-Cortez responded:
“I think what people should be most concerned about is the fact that Republicans are trying to cut Medicaid right now, and people’s healthcare is in danger. That’s really what my central focus is.”
The New York congresswoman continued, “This moment isn’t about campaigns, or elections, or about politics. It’s about making sure people are protected.”
Her comments came on President Donald Trump’s 100th day in office, amid a heated partisan debate over the future of entitlement programs. Despite President Trump’s repeated promises not to cut Medicaid, Ocasio-Cortez cited the issue as a top concern.
Congresswomen Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez speaks at the squad rally addressing the supporters in Detroit at Cass Technical High School to gather support for upcoming primaries on Sunday, July 24, 2022. The Squad Rally
She also referenced alleged deportations and arrests during the current administration, saying:
“We’ve got people that are getting locked up for exercising their First Amendment rights. We’re getting 2-year-olds that are getting deported into cells in Honduras. We’re getting people that are about to get kicked off of Medicaid.”
Ocasio-Cortez has been traveling the country alongside Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., as part of the “Fighting Oligarchy” tour, which has drawn attention from Democrats and pundits alike who suspect she may be preparing for a national campaign.
A better world is possible. pic.twitter.com/NPzceoY5aC
— Team AOC (@TeamAOC) April 16, 2025
In a recent event in Idaho, Ocasio-Cortez took the stage and declared, “I’m a girl from the Bronx,” adding, “To be welcomed here in this state… this is what this country is all about.”
The tour and her campaign-style messaging led FiveThirtyEight founder Nate Silver and podcast host Galen Druke to name her a top contender for the Democratic nomination in 2028.
🚨🇺🇸 “I’m a Girl from The Bronx”
AOC Running for 2028 is simply too good to be true 🤣 pic.twitter.com/7OjTI16aqh
— Concerned Citizen (@BGatesIsaPyscho) April 24, 2025