Overview

• Bill Maher publicly stated that Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez should not lead the Democratic ticket in 2028, citing concerns over electability and voter turnout strategies.
• Sen. Tina Smith echoed Maher’s sentiment but clarified that it is not her role to decide the party's nominee.
• Ocasio-Cortez has seen a surge in early Democratic primary polls, with Nate Silver naming her the current frontrunner for the 2028 nomination.
• Critics, including Maher and strategist James Carville, argue that the focus on large rallies, like those in the Sanders-Ocasio-Cortez “Fighting Oligarchy” tour, may detract from efforts to boost Election Day turnout.
• Carville warned that continued intra-party criticism by progressives could risk a split within the Democratic Party if not addressed.