New York City – The New York City chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) formally adopted a resolution on Saturday urging Rep. Alexandria Ocasio‑Cortez to begin a presidential campaign for the 2028 election. The vote, 291‑123, was announced at a press conference following the chapter’s convention.
Resolution details and stated goals
Co‑chair Gustavo Gordillo described the measure as a “commitment to encouraging and building the foundation for a presidential campaign.” He said the DSA aims to create conditions for a campaign that would advance a working‑class political agenda.
The resolution lists several policy goals that DSA chapters hope a potential AOC candidacy would champion, including:
- Imposing an arms embargo on Israel
- Abolishing US Immigration and Customs Enforcement
- Enacting Medicare for All
- Implementing the Green New Deal
Gordillo emphasized that dissent within the organization does not hinder grassroots organizing. He noted that DSA members have historically worked with the congresswoman even when they disagreed on specific issues, such as the Israeli‑Palestinian conflict.
Broader DSA support and internal debate
Local DSA chapters in Atlanta, Colorado, Los Angeles and Ithaca, New York, have already passed similar resolutions encouraging Ocasio‑Cortez to run. During the New York City debate, some members voiced concerns that the congresswoman had drifted from DSA’s core identity and that a resolution urging a run could complicate future endorsement processes.
In 2024, the national DSA withdrew its endorsement of Ocasio‑Cortez over disagreements regarding the Israeli‑Palestinian conflict, highlighting ongoing tensions between the representative and the broader socialist movement.
Ocasio‑Cortez’s response
A spokesperson for Rep. Ocasio‑Cortez, who rejoined the DSA in August after a brief lapse in membership, declined to comment on the resolution.
The congresswoman has previously indicated she will decide her next political move after the 2026 midterm elections, weighing options that may include a White House bid or a run for the U.S. Senate. She has cited personal considerations such as ethnicity, family life, age, and electoral viability in her decision‑making process.
Context of the resolution
The DSA resolution frames a potential presidential campaign as an opportunity to expand the organization’s national influence while championing working‑class voters. Gordillo warned that allowing internal dissent can strengthen the movement, arguing that constructive critique has historically helped align DSA’s goals with the congresswoman’s platform.
The resolution’s passage reflects a continued effort by democratic socialists to position Ocasio‑Cortez as a leading figure for a left‑wing presidential bid, even as the broader party landscape remains divided over her policy positions.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
