Texas Republican Senator Ted Cruz is focusing on potential changes within the Democratic Party leading up to the 2028 election. In a video post on X, Cruz suggested that Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez might run for president while New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani could succeed Senator Chuck Schumer. Cruz called these developments “bad for America,” noting that some Republicans support opponents they deem “crazy.” He emphasized the need for two parties that genuinely care about the country.
Cruz also speculated, “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 Mamdani, Schumer, and Ocasio-Cortez for comments.
Current Political Landscape
Speculation about the 2028 presidential race is increasing, even though the election is several years away. While no Democratic candidate has announced an official campaign, Ocasio-Cortez’s potential White House ambitions continue to fuel discussions. Her national presence and large influence among progressive voters make her one to watch.
Conversely, Mamdani is gaining recognition as a progressive leader in New York politics, leading to questions about his future in politics. Democratic primaries have shown the growing impact of the progressive wing, highlighting leaders who could shape the party’s future direction in the next election cycle.
2028 Presidential Poll Figures
Recent polling showcases a dynamic landscape. For Republicans, Vice President JD Vance remains a leader, while Marco Rubio is quickly gaining ground, demonstrating potential shifts in party dynamics.
A University of New Hampshire Survey Center poll shows Ocasio-Cortez with 22 percent support, narrowly leading former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg at 21 percent. Arizona Senator Mark Kelly received 9 percent, with others like Gavin Newsom, Bernie Sanders, and Kamala Harris garnering less than 9 percent. The poll, conducted among 648 likely Democratic voters, came with a margin of error of 3.8 percent.
Ocasio-Cortez responded to her position in the polls by emphasizing her focus on the current midterms, expressing gratitude to supporters.
An Emerson survey reveals Buttigieg leading with 19 percent among likely Democratic primary voters. Other candidates like Newsom, Ossoff, and Ocasio-Cortez are closely trailing. Newsom shows strong appeal among women, while Buttigieg’s appeal is even among genders. This poll involved 1,100 likely voters and has a credibility interval of 2.9 percent.

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