Progressive groups launch campaign urging AOC and Ro Khanna to run in 2028

Progressive Democrats of America (PDA) and RootsAction said they will launch a new campaign after the upcoming midterm elections, urging Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Ro Khanna to run for the 2028 Democratic presidential nomination. In a joint statement, the groups criticized one outlet field of candidates as largely tied to the party establishment and corporate interests, and argued that a progressive populist candidate is essential to address voter concerns over war, inflation, corporate greed and other pressing issues.

They highlighted the track records of Ocasio-Cortez and Khanna as examples of leaders willing to push beyond party constraints. The organizations noted that they have not given the lawmakers advance notice and that they do not always align with them, but they believe at least one of them should be on the ticket. The campaign will be timed to follow the midterm elections, with the groups emphasizing the need for broader representation of progressive views in the upcoming presidential debates.