Progressive Groups Launch Campaign to Draft AOC and Ro Khanna for 2028

The campaign aims to mobilize support immediately following the November midterm elections. Organizers argue that without a populist figure on the Democratic ticket, the party risks appearing disconnected from voters frustrated by inflation, wealth inequality, and foreign policy. By championing Ocasio-Cortez and Khanna, the groups hope to inject a progressive agenda into the national debate that moves beyond what they describe as the bland incrementalism of current party leadership.

Alan Minsky, executive director of Progressive Democrats of America, pointed to the success of progressive candidates in the 2026 primary season as evidence of a shifting political landscape. India Walton, a senior strategist at RootsAction, echoed this sentiment, asserting that working-class voters are seeking leaders who reject corporate power and prioritize policies focused on public well-being. Both organizations have a history of pushing insurgent candidates, previously supporting Bernie Sanders’ 2013 presidential bid and Zohran Mamdani’s 2025 campaign for mayor of New York City.