Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Rejoins Democratic Socialists of America Amid 2028 Presidential Speculation

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) renewed her affiliation with the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) in August 2026 after the organization discovered her membership had lapsed in 2019. The DSA confirmed she is “a member in good standing” following the renewal. The timing coincides with internal discussions about a possible 2028 presidential campaign, prompting the group to disclose her status for members’ deliberations.

Washington ExaminerThe Guardian

Ocasio-Cortez first joined DSA in 2018 with a one-year membership, a status that was publicly noted at the time of her upset primary victory over Rep. Joe Crowley. Although DSA repeatedly referred to her as a member in 2020 and 2024, the organization later acknowledged the lapse. The withdrawal highlighted a sometimes-rocky relationship between the congresswoman and the socialist organization.

Washington ExaminerThe Guardian

When Ocasio-Cortez first joined in 2018, annual dues were $60. DSA now offers automatic renewals and monthly options ranging from $5 to $50.

The Guardian

• “Previously, the representative joined DSA in 2018 with a one-year membership, which DSA’s national leadership recently noticed had lapsed, in 2019. She has since renewed her membership as of this month.” — The DSA

The Guardian

• “Every DSA chapter is formed locally. And so the New York City DSA chapter, those are folks that you know, it’s kind of like your local union chapter.” — Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez

The Guardian