A Montana Democratic House candidate has removed all references to Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s endorsement from his campaign materials ahead of the 2026 midterms. Sam Forstag, running in Montana’s House race, told Axios he does not plan to have out-of-state surrogates, including Ocasio-Cortez, campaign with him in the final weeks before Election Day.
Forstag’s campaign website no longer features Ocasio-Cortez’s endorsement, which was previously highlighted during his primary campaign. The decision reflects a broader trend among some Democratic candidates in competitive districts who are distancing themselves from the progressive lawmaker as the general election approaches.
Polling and Strategic Concerns
A recent CNN/SSRS poll shows Ocasio-Cortez with a 26% national favorability rating, including just 28% support among voters aged 18-34 and 22% among independents. A senior Democratic strategist in a key swing district told Axios the polling data makes Ocasio-Cortez a "lightning rod" and cautioned against her involvement in campaigns targeting moderate or independent voters.
Mixed Reactions Within the Party
While some Democratic candidates are distancing themselves from Ocasio-Cortez, others continue to embrace her support. The lawmaker remains a prominent figure in progressive circles, particularly within the "Squad" faction of the party. However, her national polling numbers and polarizing reputation have led some strategists to advise against her involvement in battleground races.
A former political advisor for former Vice President Kamala Harris, Mike Nellis, told Fox News Digital that Ocasio-Cortez’s deployment in campaigns depends on "circumstantial" factors, including voter impressions of her. "It's hard to play coalition politics," Nellis said, emphasizing that candidates must weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks of associating with her.
Broader Implications for 2026 and Beyond
The shifting dynamics around Ocasio-Cortez’s role in Democratic campaigns highlight tensions within the party between its progressive and centrist wings. Some analysts suggest that while Ocasio-Cortez remains influential in primary elections, her appeal in general elections—particularly in swing districts—may be limited. The party’s ability to balance these factions could play a critical role in determining its success in the 2026 midterms and beyond.