In a surprising turn amid a heated political landscape, Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) is polling as more popular than several of the country’s most prominent political figures, including former President Donald Trump, President Joe Biden, and Vice President Kamala Harris, according to new data released by AtlasIntel.
The survey, conducted between May 21 and May 27, 2025, found that Ocasio-Cortez is the third most popular political figure in the country, trailing only behind former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama. Despite her polarizing presence within the Democratic Party, the 34-year-old progressive leader received a net positive rating—one of only three leaders in the poll to do so.
Ocasio-Cortez earned a 46% favorability rating, with 44% of respondents holding a negative view and 10% unsure, giving her a net positivity score of +2. In comparison, Barack Obama led with 53% positive and 43% negative, while Michelle Obama posted 49% positive and 45% negative ratings.
Observers note that the Obamas may benefit from their current lack of involvement in government, which often shields them from direct political backlash. Ocasio-Cortez, by contrast, remains an active and outspoken member of Congress. Alongside Senator Bernie Sanders, she has recently toured the country under the banner of “rallying against oligarchy,” drawing sizable crowds and energizing progressive bases in major cities.
While speculation around her future ambitions continues, Ocasio-Cortez has remained tight-lipped about a potential 2028 presidential run. In an April interview with Fox News, she redirected attention to more immediate issues. “This moment isn’t about campaigns, or elections, or about politics,” she said. “It’s about making sure people are protected.”
Republicans are beginning to take notice. “Do not underestimate AOC,” warned Monica Crowley, a former Trump administration official. “She’s young, she’s vibrant, she’s attractive.”
The poll surveyed 3,469 adults nationwide and has a margin of error of ±0.2 percentage points at a 95% confidence level.
