'If Abdul can win in Michigan, anybody can win anywhere': AOC's leaked fundraiser audio reveals her 2028 ambitions

From the Newshound archive · first published 6 October 2026.

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez privately told a fundraiser for Michigan Senate candidate Dr Abdul El-Sayed that a victory there would "break open the entire political calculus in America." The remarks were recorded without her knowledge and leaked to multiple outlets. AOC is currently weighing whether to run for the White House, Senate or House in 2028, and polls fourth among top Democratic presidential contenders.