Ocasio-Cortez keeps Democrats in suspense over next move

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) is keeping Democrats in suspense as speculation swirls about her next career move. 

The star progressive launched a video last month reminiscent of a presidential pitch, stoking new questions about her political ambitions — with some wondering about a 2028 bid for the White House and others suggesting she could challenge Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) that same year.  

Ocasio-Cortez has dodged questions about either possibility, stressing a focus on the current political moment, but anticipation is building as she tours the country alongside Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), revving up her base and reaching out to voters across the country. 

“It would not be out of the realm of possibility that she would want to be a presidential candidate. She’s very ambitious. She’s very smart. She has an uncanny ability to raise money. She understands social media. She’s incredibly popular with younger voters, and she’s got the right issues,” said Hank Sheinkopf, a Democratic strategist based in the Empire State.