3 minPolitics
Mamdani quietly builds progressive influence ahead of 2028 Democratic race
New Mamdani has been holding private talks with labor leaders as he seeks to shape the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination, with Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's plans still unresolved.
Zohran Mamdani is working behind the scenes to influence the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination, meeting privately with labor leaders as he seeks to position progressives as a decisive force in the contest. According to reporting first published by Axios, the effort is aimed at making Mamdani a kind of progressive kingmaker. He cannot run for president himself because he is not a natural-born citizen, so his influence would have to be exercised through others.
The private conversations are centered on readiness rather than a single candidate. Mamdani reportedly wants progressives prepared to mobilize quickly if a moderate frontrunner rises to the top of the field. He is also said to be concerned that the party could lack a progressive standard-bearer if Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez decides not to seek the presidency. Reporting indicates he is not certain whether she will run, which leaves his planning dependent on a decision that has not been made.
Ocasio-Cortez has publicly played down speculation about 2028, saying she is focused on her legislative agenda. She was re-elected to a fifth House term in New York, a victory that has kept her name at the center of the discussion about the party's future. A group called Ready for AOC has been launched to urge her to run for president. Strategist David Plouffe has estimated that she starts with roughly 20 to 25 percent support, and he has said the race would be wide open if she stays out. That assessment helps explain why her choice carries so much weight for the progressive wing.
Ocasio-Cortez is also weighing a possible Senate bid against the seat held by Chuck Schumer, who has not decided whether he will seek another term. The two possible paths are linked, since a decision by Schumer could shape her own options. Her decision is expected after the midterms, though no firm timeline has been set, leaving both Democrats and progressive donors and organizers to plan without a settled picture of the field.
The jockeying follows a strong showing for Democrats in the midterm elections, in which the party won the House majority and regained control of the Senate. That result has sharpened interest in who will carry the party's banner in 2028. Other names have also entered the conversation. Abdul El-Sayed, the Michigan Senate-elect, has been floated as a possible candidate, and Rep. Ro Khanna of California is considering a presidential run. A "Run Ro" draft committee has been formed to build support for him, signaling that organizing for the next nomination is already well underway among Democrats seeking to influence the outcome.
Source: foxnews.com
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