Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez received backing from New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who added his signature to a petition supporting her. The filing identifies her as the strongest progressive option for the 2028 presidential race. This revelation emerged this week after Politico broke the news, with the Washington Examiner subsequently verifying the signature.
A member of the Democratic Socialists of America, Mamdani signed the document in March. The effort originated from the NYC-DSA chapter, which aimed to assist her in securing another term in the House.
Identifying AOC as the primary choice for the 2028 election, the petition highlights her potential future presidential ambitions. The initiative sought to bolster connections with the congresswoman. Speaking anonymously to Politico, an adviser explained the rationale behind the signature, noting that the mayor joined fellow DSA officeholders in supporting her re-election bid for Congress.
By this spring, the document had gathered close to 600 signatures. Following this, the NYC-DSA chapter cast an overwhelming vote in her favor for the 2026 midterms. She has held her seat in the House since 2019.
Although he signed the petition, Mamdani has not issued a public endorsement for a presidential run. In a July interview with the New York Times, he stated it was premature to comment, explaining that he cannot endorse a candidate who has not yet declared their candidacy. Despite this, the two remain closely aligned. They exchanged advance notice regarding endorsements prior to the June 23 primaries. Mamdani supported Darializa Avila Chevalier against Rep. Adriano Espaillat, while Ocasio-Cortez backed three socialist candidates in the state assembly. All candidates they supported secured victories in their primaries this summer.
By signing the petition, Mamdani designated AOC as the most viable left contender for president in 2028.
AOC is currently keeping her future plans under wraps. Last month, she told ABC News that she “haven’t ruled out the possibility” of running. She further remarked, “and I’m very humbled to the tremendous amount of support out there.” Rather than the White House, she might pursue a Senate seat, as the position currently held by Minority Leader Chuck Schumer becomes available in 2028. The progressive lawmaker could launch a campaign for that seat. The DSA petition serves as a significant indicator, revealing where certain factions of the left are directing their attention next.
