Scoop: AOC shakes up team ahead of 2028 decision

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) has made several key personnel changes within her congressional team, signaling a shift in strategy as she prepares for major decisions in 2028. According to multiple sources, including Axios, several long-time aides and advisors are leaving or transitioning roles, while others return to bolster her operations. These developments occur just months before Ocasio-Cortez is expected to announce whether she will run for president or seek the Senate seat currently held by Democratic leader Chuck Schumer. Among the notable departures is Oliver Hidalgo-Wohlleben, who served as Ocasio-Cortez’s campaign manager and senior adviser for several years. Hidalgo-Wohlleben is set to leave in September, as confirmed by individuals familiar with the situation. His departure marks the end of a tenure that included managing her congressional campaigns and supporting her growing influence within the Democratic Party. In his place, Fiorella Bini, a longtime aide, has taken on the role of interim campaign manager. Bini’s continued involvement suggests a steady hand in guiding Ocasio-Cortez through the upcoming political season. Other members of Ocasio-Cortez’s inner circle are also adjusting their positions. Aya Saed, who previously served as her legislative director, has returned to her House office this spring. She now holds the title of deputy chief of staff and continues to advise the campaign. Meanwhile, Tanushri Shankar-Ross, who left the team in 2023, has rejoined as a senior adviser. Her return adds experience and continuity to the team, particularly as Ocasio-Cortez navigates the complexities of future political ambitions. Tyler Evans, the creative director who joined Ocasio-Cortez’s team in 2021, has also departed. His exit was noted on his LinkedIn profile, indicating a professional transition. While the exact nature of his new endeavors remains unclear, his departure underscores the ongoing reshuffling of roles within the campaign structure. The changes have coincided with an expansion of responsibilities for Mike Casca, Ocasio-Cortez’s chief of staff. Casca, who previously worked under Senator Bernie Sanders during his 2020 presidential bid, has taken on a broader role within the team. This move reflects a strategic realignment, potentially allowing for more efficient coordination across different aspects of Ocasio-Cortez’s work. Ocasio-Cortez’s team includes several figures with ties to the Sanders organization, such as Faiz Shakir, who leads the progressive media outlet More Perfect Union. Ocasio-Cortez has participated in content produced by this platform, highlighting her alignment with progressive messaging. Additionally, her campaign utilizes Middle Seat, a consulting firm co-founded by former Sanders officials. These connections suggest that Ocasio-Cortez may draw upon existing networks to support any future presidential or Senate campaign. Several former Sanders advisers are also assisting other potential 2028 candidates, including Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), Governor Gavin Newsom, and others. This trend illustrates the broader network of progressive operatives preparing for the 2028 election cycle. Oliver Hidalgo-Wohlleben expressed personal satisfaction with his career trajectory, stating he “never believed I would get to do a job like this let alone walk away from one.” He emphasized his commitment to Ocasio-Cortez’s mission and pledged support for whatever path she chooses moving forward. His remarks reflect the sentiment shared by many within her team, who appear to be embracing the evolving landscape of political strategy.