Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) made headlines by raising an impressive $9.6 million in the first quarter of the year, surpassing her previous fundraising record. This significant achievement has sparked discussions among progressives about the possibility of her challenging Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer in the 2028 primary.
The Fundraising Success
Ocasio-Cortez’s fundraising prowess was on full display as she amassed over $8 million in cash-on-hand, thanks to her extensive network of small-dollar donors. Her recent collaboration with Sen. Bernie Sanders on the ‘Fighting Oligarchy’ tour drew massive crowds and further bolstered her financial support.
Supporting the Grassroots
Known for her commitment to grassroots fundraising, Ocasio-Cortez revealed that the average campaign donation was a modest $21. Notably, 64% of contributions came from first-time donors, emphasizing her campaign’s broad appeal and lack of corporate influence.
Gratitude and Impact
In a message to her supporters, Ocasio-Cortez expressed profound gratitude for their unwavering support. She highlighted how their contributions enabled unprecedented community organizing efforts and emphasized her refusal to accept donations from lobbyists or corporate PACs.
Progressive Endorsements
Her fundraising success garnered praise from fellow progressives, surpassing her previous quarter’s fundraising by over double. Sanders adviser Faiz Shakir commended the electorate for signaling their desired direction for the Democratic party through their support of Ocasio-Cortez.
Joining forces with Ocasio-Cortez, progressives are amplifying their message and reshaping the political landscape with record-breaking fundraising efforts that defy conventional norms.
