NH hints at a potential AOC pivot, even as national poll numbers slip

AOC’s national favorability sits around 26% with 36% unfavorable, including just 28% among 18–34 and 22% of independents, per CNN/SSRS, while a New Hampshire poll puts her at 22% in the early primary, ahead of Pete Buttigieg (21%) and well above others. The contrast suggests strong brand recognition in early-state races despite a national slide, with analysts noting she could be positioned as Bernie Sanders’ heir, even as she faces doubts about a 2028 bid and tensions within the Democratic Party and its socialist wing.