Conservative radio host Buck Sexton believes Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., is strategically positioned to become the Democratic presidential nominee in 2028. Sexton, speaking on the "Hang Out With Sean Hannity" podcast, suggested that Ocasio-Cortez is emulating the approach of former President Barack Obama.
Sexton posited that Ocasio-Cortez could potentially lead the Democratic ticket by moderating some of her more pronounced policy stances for broader public appeal. "She actually has been toning down the sort of crazier things, just for public consumption... She's going to play that game," Sexton stated. He drew a parallel between Ocasio-Cortez and Obama, noting that Obama was considered a highly liberal senator before becoming the Democratic nominee.
"It's about story," Sexton added, emphasizing the narrative aspect of political campaigns. His comments come amid increasing visibility of potential contenders for the 2028 Democratic nomination. Earlier, an aide to California Gov. Gavin Newsom reportedly criticized Vice President Pete Buttigieg's outreach efforts in the South.
Meanwhile, the Democratic Socialists of America's Liberation Caucus has reportedly rejected Ocasio-Cortez as a viable 2028 candidate, citing a perceived divergence from the socialist agenda. On the Republican side, recent polling suggests that Sen. Marco Rubio is gaining traction in hypothetical 2028 primary matchups against Vice President JD Vance.