Monica Crowley, a former official in Donald Trump’s administration, warned Republicans on Friday against underestimating the political potential of progressive Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) as a possible presidential candidate in 2028. Speaking on Fox News’ The Ingraham Angle with guest host Lisa Boothe, Crowley highlighted AOC's grassroots appeal and social media savviness as key assets.
Ocasio-Cortez, a New York Democrat, is known for her progressive stances, including support for Medicare for All and the Green New Deal. Representing New York’s 14th Congressional District since her surprise victory over incumbent Joe Crowley in 2018, she has maintained a strong connection with her constituents, even addressing their mixed voting patterns in the 2024 election. Some constituents, who split their vote between her and Donald Trump, cited economic concerns and candidate accessibility as factors.
Boothe noted AOC's appeal, likening it to Trump’s ability to engage directly with the public through platforms like Joe Rogan’s podcast and extended interviews. She asked Crowley whether a presidential bid by Ocasio-Cortez should be taken seriously.
Crowley acknowledged AOC’s strong grassroots base and her skill at connecting with voters via social media. However, she argued that the results of the 2024 election, which saw Donald Trump win a decisive mandate over Vice President Kamala Harris and Republicans gain control of both congressional chambers, indicated widespread rejection of progressive policies. “I don’t think in four short years the country will pivot to embrace socialism or radical left ideas,” she stated.
While Ocasio-Cortez has not announced any plans to run for president, Crowley warned Republicans not to dismiss her potential influence, noting the historical missteps of underestimating Democratic leaders like Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, and Joe Biden. “She’s young, vibrant, and has genuine grassroots support,” Crowley added. “The revolutionary left is where the energy in the Democratic Party lies, and she’s a key figure in that movement.”
Ocasio-Cortez has been vocal about her party’s future, recently critiquing the Democratic National Committee (DNC) leadership. On X (formerly Twitter), she condemned rumored DNC chair candidate Rahm Emanuel, calling for leadership that prioritizes working people over the donor class. “The DNC needs an organizer who understands people—not someone known for aggressive political tactics,” she wrote, referencing Emanuel’s controversial history.
As Democrats regroup after their 2024 losses, figures like AOC may play a significant role in shaping the party’s direction in the coming years.
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