The Democratic Socialists of America's (DSA) Liberation Caucus has declared it will not endorse Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., as a potential presidential candidate in 2028, accusing her of moving away from socialist principles. The caucus, which identifies as Marxist-Leninist-Maoist, released a statement condemning Ocasio-Cortez as an "opportunist dilettante" for her evolving positions.
The group specifically cited Ocasio-Cortez's vote to defend Israel's right to exist and her perceived lack of firm anti-Zionist commitment as reasons for withholding support, stating she failed to meet conditions regarding Palestine solidarity. The caucus also criticized her remarks on policing, where she described her past support for defunding the police and related language from 2020 as part of a "crazy" "Woke 1" era. The DSA Liberation Caucus argued that this shift demonstrated a lack of principles and an abandonment of the language she used during her initial electoral victory.
This rejection comes as speculation grows about Ocasio-Cortez's potential presidential ambitions for 2028, where she is reportedly polling as a leading choice among Democrats, though she has not made a formal announcement.
The DSA Liberation Caucus's statement also pointed to the national DSA's new program, which demands candidates advocate for the elimination of the Senate, presidency, and Supreme Court to receive endorsement. The caucus explicitly stated they would not support a "social democrat at the head of an empire."
While the national DSA organization is distancing itself from Ocasio-Cortez, the New York City DSA chapter has historically endorsed her campaigns. The statement from the Liberation Caucus suggested that the NYC chapter might consider separating from the national organization due to these disagreements.
Ocasio-Cortez's office did not immediately respond to requests for comment.