A recent University of New Hampshire poll places Representative Alexandria Ocasio‑Cortez at the forefront of the projected 2028 Democratic presidential field, edging out former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.
Ocasio‑Cortez captured 22 percent of support among likely Democratic primary voters, a slim one‑point lead over Buttigieg’s 21 percent. Former Vice President Kamala Harris trailed far behind at 5 percent.
The poll shows Ocasio‑Cortez gaining seven points since the February survey, while Harris and California Governor Gavin Newsom each lost ground, underscoring her rising prominence among Democratic voters in the early battleground state.
Although she has not disclosed definitive plans, Ocasio‑Cortez has indicated that her objective is to “change the country,” leaving both a potential White House bid and a Senate challenge open.
Buttigieg, a moderate who previously performed strongly in New Hampshire, maintains solid backing from liberals and moderates, positioning him as the primary alternative to the progressive frontrunner.
Arizona Senator Mark Kelly held third place with 9 percent, closely followed by Newsom at 8 percent. Independent Senator Bernie Sanders registered 6 percent, while other tested candidates each garnered 2 percent or less.
Despite her modest showing in New Hampshire, Harris remains the leading figure in national averages for the hypothetical 2028 Democratic nomination, reflecting the influence of name recognition in early‑cycle polling.
The Democratic National Committee is expected to unveil a revised primary calendar for 2028, a decision that could reshape the sequence of early contests.
On the Republican side, the same poll indicates Vice President JD Vance leading with 36 percent of likely GOP primary voters in New Hampshire, followed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio at 26 percent.
Former Senator Rand Paul and former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley each attracted 8 percent, while Florida Governor Ron DeSantis received 6 percent; all other candidates tested at 4 percent or lower.
