Republican Senator Ted Cruz from Texas anticipates significant changes in the Democratic Party leading up to the 2028 election. In a video posted on X, Cruz expressed his belief that Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, known as AOC, will launch a presidential campaign. He also predicts Zohran Mamdani, New York City’s Mayor, will succeed Senator Chuck Schumer. Cruz characterized these potential developments as unfavorable for America, criticizing Republicans who support opponents he labels as “crazy.” He emphasized the necessity for two parties that genuinely care for the country.
In another post, Cruz mentioned, “Chuck Schumer is finished. He can never again win a Democrat primary in New York. He knows it. Which is why I joke that he will be the inaugural member of the AOC for President Campaign.” Newsweek contacted the offices of Mamdani, Schumer, and Ocasio-Cortez for further comments.
Democratic Speculation and Prominent Figures
Cruz’s statements surface amidst growing discussions about the 2028 presidential race despite the election being several years away. No prominent Democratic contenders have officially announced their campaigns, yet Ocasio-Cortez’s potential White House run has been a topic of interest. Her national recognition, extensive social media audience, and influence among progressives make her a focal point within the party.
Mamdani’s emergence as a progressive leader in New York has spurred speculation about his future ambitions. Recent Democratic primary outcomes underscore the increasing prominence of the progressive segment, with left-leaning individuals defeating established party members. These developments suggest progressive leaders might substantively influence the Democratic Party’s trajectory as 2028 approaches.
Republican Dynamics
Recent polls highlight a shifting scenario for the 2028 race. On the Republican side, Vice President JD Vance currently leads, though Secretary of State Marco Rubio is rapidly gaining traction. These dynamics indicate a volatile political environment as both parties strategize for future elections. No official candidacies have been declared yet.
Insights from Polls
According to a University of New Hampshire Survey Center poll conducted from July 15 to July 20, Ocasio-Cortez stands at 22 percent, slightly ahead of former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg who is at 21 percent. Other notable figures include Arizona Senator Mark Kelly at 9 percent and California Governor Gavin Newsom at 8 percent. This poll involved 648 likely Democratic voters and has a margin of error of 3.8 percent.
Ocasio-Cortez, responding to her leading position, told The Independent, “I think there’s two things, one is that, you know, polls are polls, and a horse race is a horse race. I am, of course, I think, very deeply humbled and grateful to, you know, folks who participate and convey that confidence.” She noted her primary focus remains on the midterm elections, emphasizing the importance of securing the majority.
An Emerson survey released shortly after shows Buttigieg leading with 19 percent in the Democratic primary, followed by Newsom at 17 percent, with both Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff and Ocasio-Cortez at 13 percent. Kamala Harris attained 8 percent while several others hold lower percentages. This poll, conducted with 1,100 likely voters, has a credibility interval of 2.9 percent.
According to Spencer Kimball, executive director of Emerson College Polling, “Ossoff was added to the Democratic ballot test this month, and entered at 13%, driven by stronger support among men, at 18%, compared to 8% among women. Newsom is strongest among women at 25%, compared to 8% of men. Similarly, Rep. Ocasio-Cortez’s support is higher among women, at 16%, compared to 9% of men. Buttigieg, on the other hand, has equal support among both men and women at 19%.”