AOC jumps ahead of Rubio in Polymarket's 2028 presidential odds

Prediction-market platform Polymarket has updated its 2028 presidential odds, putting Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez ahead of Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The move adds to mounting speculation that the progressive New York Democrat could become an early favorite for her party’s nomination. Vice President JD Vance recently said he expects Ocasio-Cortez to lead the Democratic field, and a New Hampshire primary poll showed her with 22% support, narrowly surpassing Pete Buttigieg.

Ocasio-Cortez has reiterated that her current priority is winning the 2026 midterm elections and has not ruled out a future presidential run. On the Republican side, JD Vance and Rubio are the most discussed names, with President Donald Trump suggesting a potential Vance-Rubio ticket but stopping short of endorsing either. Other possible Democratic candidates mentioned include Mark Kelly, Gavin Newsom, Bernie Sanders, Kamala Harris and Rahm Emanuel, while one outlet still shows Harris leading the aggregate. Despite the chatter, party officials are concentrating on the 2026 midterms before committing to 2028 strategies.