AOC Dodges 2028 White House Speculation at Munich Conference

Congresswoman laughs off moderator's question about potential presidential run.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) was asked directly about a potential 2028 White House bid during a panel discussion at the Munich Security Conference, but she did not deny the speculation, instead pivoting to discuss policy proposals like a wealth tax.

Why it matters

AOC is considered a rising star in the Democratic Party, and any indication of presidential ambitions would be closely watched, especially this far out from the next election cycle. Her response at the high-profile international conference is likely to further fuel speculation about her future political plans.

The details

During a panel on 'the rise of populism', the moderator directly asked AOC if she planned to run for president in 2028, and whether she would impose a wealth tax or billionaire's tax. While the congresswoman laughed off the question, she did not deny the possibility of a future White House run, instead pivoting to discuss the need for a wealth tax regardless of who is president.

  • The Munich Security Conference took place on February 13, 2026.

The players

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez

A Democratic Congresswoman representing New York's 14th district, who is considered a rising star in the party and potential future presidential candidate.

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What they’re saying

“When you run for president, are you going to impose a wealth tax or a billionaire's tax?”

— Panel Moderator (Munich Security Conference)

“I don't think that anyone — that we don't have to wait for any one president to impose a wealth tax. That needs to be done expeditiously.”

— Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Congresswoman (Munich Security Conference)

The takeaway

AOC's response at the high-profile Munich Security Conference is likely to further fuel speculation about her future political ambitions, including a potential 2028 White House run, even as she deflected the direct question from the moderator.