A Democratic strategist, who has previously collaborated with former President Bill Clinton, has downplayed the possibility of left-wing Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez from New York becoming the Democratic Party’s candidate for the 2028 presidential election.
During a recent interview on Fox News with guest host Kellyanne Conway, strategist Mark Penn articulated his view that a candidacy from AOC would result in a win for the Democratic Party in only one state.
Could you clarify this for us? Do voters prefer a youthful, progressive perspective, possibly with elements of socialism? Or will they lean towards a candidate like Kamala Harris, given that she may require additional time?” Conway, a Republican strategist and pollster, questioned. “Are we missing the broader context? Are there governors or personalities such as Stephen A. Smith? Furthermore, what attributes is the Democratic Party pursuing? Is the focus on economic matters, immigration, social justice, or climate change? What information can you provide regarding the polling data within your party?” she asked.
Penn stated, “In a situation where the party has no control over any governmental branches and has faced a considerable electoral loss, a definitive leader is absent. AOC is striving to fill that gap. As we have seen, Bernie Sanders has the potential to receive 30 to 40 percent of the Democratic primary vote. If she intends to cultivate a significant base of support, he is clearly passing the torch to her. There is indeed a strong left-wing contingent within the Democratic Party. It is important to highlight that Democrats only won one state in both 1972 and 1984.”
He stated, “The Democratic Party has experienced times of seclusion when it has shifted excessively to the left. Consequently, this scenario is very plausible. As for Harris, I strongly contend that she will not re-enter the presidential race, and it is highly improbable that she would achieve success in a presidential primary.”
