Democrats Point Fingers at Media as AOC Hype Heats Up for 2028

Democratic Congressman Jim Clyburn is coming out swinging—at the media, not Republicans. Clyburn, a major player in Joe Biden’s 2020 nomination, says Democrats are struggling to get their message out because, in his words, "we have to depend upon the media to deliver it."

Blaming the press for low approval ratings and recent swing state losses might feel satisfying, but let’s be real: the media can’t fix a party’s weak messaging or internal confusion. Democrats are still searching for a clear leader, and that’s a problem no news cycle can solve.

Clyburn’s frustration is clear. He accused outlets like The Washington Post of "caving to this wannabe dictator" and chasing clicks over substance. He insists his own message is "very, very coherent" and "a little bit alarming"—which, if nothing else, is pretty on-brand for this moment in politics.

But the media isn’t here to play cheerleader. Politicians have to make news, not just complain about coverage. And, honestly, given how much both sides love to bash the press, it’s amazing anyone wants to work in journalism at all.

Meanwhile, President Biden’s avoidance of journalists—skipping even a Super Bowl interview—shows just how dicey things have become. If you’re hiding from the press, maybe the message isn’t the main problem.

With Biden stepping back and the party’s identity up for grabs, new names are floating to the surface. Gavin Newsom is clearly eyeing 2028, popping up on Fox and conservative podcasts to show he can mix it up outside the blue bubble. Even he admits, "I don’t know what the party is. I’m still struggling with that."

But the real buzz? Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC). There’s talk of a presidential run, and not just because of her bartender-to-Congresswoman backstory. She’s drawing huge crowds alongside Bernie Sanders, hinting at a generational shift. The Washington Post splashed their rallies on its front page, and pollsters now say she’s the most likely 2028 Democratic nominee.

Some call her "the most exciting figure in Democratic politics," with charisma and authenticity that can pack a stadium. But as conservative columnist Niall Ferguson points out, can a left-wing Latina from New York City win over swing states like Michigan and Pennsylvania? That’s a tall order.

Still, AOC’s fundraising is on fire—nearly $10 million in just three months. Center-left hopefuls like Josh Shapiro are already positioning themselves as the pragmatic choice for states that actually decide elections.

Of course, it’s early days—Trump’s second term has only just begun, and political stars can fade fast. Name recognition only lasts as long as you keep the crowd’s attention.

But one thing is certain: Confidence in Democratic congressional leadership just hit an all-time low, according to Gallup. Republicans expect rough coverage, but many Democrats act personally wounded when the press gets critical. In the end, the party has to make its own headlines, not just blame the folks writing them. But hey, attacking the media is the only true bipartisan sport left in America.