Vice President JD Vance stated Tuesday that he believes Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez will be the Democratic presidential nominee in 2028. Vance made the prediction in an interview on "The Michael Knowles Show" while promoting his new book, "Communion." Ocasio-Cortez, a Democrat representing parts of the Bronx and Queens, responded to Vance's comments by telling reporters that she "hope[s] he is" the Republican nominee in the same election cycle.
Vance dismissed other rumored Democratic contenders as overrated. He specifically addressed the possibility of California Gov. Gavin Newsom as the Democratic standard-bearer, suggesting Newsom had harmed his own standing with a recent remark. In February, Newsom spoke about his dyslexia to an audience in Atlanta, stating, "I’m low IQ, just like you." Newsom's press team characterized the ensuing criticism as "MAGA-manufactured outrage."
Ocasio-Cortez, a figure often discussed as a potential White House or Senate candidate, has previously acknowledged presidential polling. A poll from last year reportedly showed her besting Vance in a hypothetical matchup. Currently, she ranks fourth in the RealClearPolitics primary polling aggregate with 11% support. Former Vice President Kamala Harris leads the aggregate with 27% support, followed by Newsom at 17% and former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg at 13%.
Vance, who is considered a strong contender for the Republican nomination should he pursue it, also advised Republicans to take the threat of the populist left seriously. He expressed concern that Democrats are "so dominated by the crazy people" but possess a popular economic populist message that Republicans should be more attuned to.
Vance has stated that he is not focusing on a 2028 presidential run until after the midterm elections, with his primary objective being to help Republicans maintain their congressional majorities.