In a political development shaking up the 2028 Senate race landscape, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is polling well ahead of Sen. Chuck Schumer in a potential Democratic primary showdown — with a dramatic drop in support for Schumer among both Jewish voters and NYC Democrats.
According to a new survey conducted by Honan Strategy Group on behalf of the Jewish Voters Action Network, Ocasio-Cortez leads Schumer by a staggering 54% to 33% among likely Democratic voters in New York City. This double-digit lead signals a potential political earthquake that could redefine the future of Democratic Party leadership in the state.
Jewish Support Collapses for Schumer
Most notably, the poll revealed that Jewish Democrats — traditionally a critical base for Schumer — are drifting away. In this subgroup, AOC holds a 45% to 33% lead, with 17% of voters still undecided. The results reflect mounting frustration with the 74-year-old Senate Minority Leader, whose handling of key issues like Israel and antisemitism has come under fire.
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Maury Litwack, co-founder of the Jewish Voters Action Network, called the poll “a massive wake-up call” for Schumer. “He’s not only bleeding support in the Democratic Party overall, but also in the Jewish community, which has long seen him as a trusted advocate,” Litwack said.
Dissatisfaction Over Israel, Antisemitism, and Legislative Failures
Analysts believe the results are not necessarily due to a surge of enthusiasm for Ocasio-Cortez, but rather a deepening dissatisfaction with Schumer’s leadership — particularly in response to Israel-related crises and rising antisemitism in the U.S.
Voters have expressed outrage over Schumer’s comments criticizing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his perceived failure to act decisively following the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel. Despite having held powerful leadership roles while Democrats controlled the Senate and the White House, Schumer was unable to advance the Antisemitism Awareness Act, frustrating pro-Israel advocates.
“The nation’s highest-ranking Jewish official failed to lead in a defining moment,” said Litwack. “And now, the poll is showing serious consequences.”
Democratic Divide Deepens in NYC
This poll may be an early warning sign of a growing ideological divide within the Democratic Party — pitting progressive figures like AOC, a Democratic Socialist, against long-time centrists like Schumer. The Democratic Socialists of America, with which AOC is affiliated, support the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement against Israel — a position that continues to generate controversy within the party and among voters.
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While Ocasio-Cortez’s base remains energized, moderates and older Jewish voters may be reconsidering their loyalty to party stalwarts. If this trend continues, New York’s political hierarchy could face a dramatic shake-up ahead of the 2028 Senate primary.
Final Thoughts
This poll is more than a snapshot — it’s a clear signal of discontent. With Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez gaining momentum and Chuck Schumer losing favor among his base, the future of Democratic leadership in New York and perhaps nationally may be headed for a major realignment.
Whether this represents a true shift or a momentary protest will depend on how both politicians respond in the coming months — but the message from NYC Democrats and Jewish voters is loud and clear.
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