Hard-left Democrats are reportedly encouraging Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) to mount a presidential campaign in 2028.

According to a report from Axios, progressives see Ocasio-Cortez as a potential successor to Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT), whose campaigns defined the modern socialist wing of the Democratic Party. Allies of Ocasio-Cortez told the outlet that a presidential run could significantly elevate her national profile, with projections that she could poll among the top five candidates and raise well over $100 million.

“There’s a window of opportunity for a left-wing nominee that may not come again for a generation,” Axios reported. “Democratic-socialist and liberal victories in New York City and elsewhere — with potentially more this fall — have changed the political playing field.”

Supporters also argue that even a failed presidential bid could benefit Ocasio-Cortez by amplifying issues such as universal health care and positioning her for a future Senate run in New York. Some suggested she could seek the seat currently held by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer if he retires, or even challenge him in a primary.

“I think she’ll plan to run for both and end up a senator,” one strategist told Axios.

Ari Rabin-Havt, who served as a deputy campaign manager for Sanders in 2020, said Ocasio-Cortez has become the dominant figure on the party’s hard left.

“She’s earned her place as the top dog,” Rabin-Havt said. “If she does run, she obviously becomes the biggest star and sucks up the oxygen in that lane.”

For now, Ocasio-Cortez has not indicated she plans to run for president in 2028. Meanwhile, other progressive Democrats are also maneuvering to inherit Sanders’ political base, including Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA).

“You have to give Ro credit: He’s worked his ass off to put himself in this position and has done what’s most comparable to Bernie pre-Bernie 2016,” Rabin-Havt said.

Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) has also been mentioned as a possible heir to Sanders’ progressive movement.