Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (born October 13, 1989), known as AOC, has served as the U.S. Representative for New York’s 14th congressional district as a Democrat since 2019
. She is recognized for her progressive political stance.
Early life and education
- Background: Raised in a family of Puerto Rican descent in the Bronx, AOC’s parents were an architect and a domestic worker. The family relocated to Yorktown Heights for better schooling, although she maintained ties to the Bronx. The disparity in opportunities based on location significantly influenced her.
- College and internship: She graduated cum laude from Boston University in 2011 with degrees in international relations and economics. During college, an internship with Senator Ted Kennedy’s immigration office exposed her to the challenges faced by families separated by ICE.
- Activism: Following her father’s death and the 2008 recession, she worked as a waitress and bartender to support her family. She later became an educator and community organizer, preparing young people for leadership and college through the National Hispanic Institute.
Political rise
- 2016 campaign: She served as a volunteer organizer for Bernie Sanders’s presidential campaign.
- 2018 upset victory: In a notable primary win in June 2018, Ocasio-Cortez defeated long-time incumbent Joe Crowley. Her campaign relied on grassroots support and funding, leading to her general election victory.
- Youngest woman in Congress: At 29, she became the youngest woman elected to Congress.
Progressive policies: A prominent figure in the progressive movement, she is part of the “Squad,” a group of progressive members of Congress. Her policy priorities include the Green New Deal, Medicare for All, and tuition-free public college.
- High-profile moments: Early in her tenure, she became known for her effective questioning in committee hearings. A significant exchange with Michael Cohen in 2019 raised concerns about potential financial misconduct by Donald Trump, contributing to a state investigation.
- Social media presence: She actively uses social media platforms like X and Instagram to connect with constituents.
- 2021 Met Gala: Her attendance at the 2021 Met Gala, wearing a dress with “Tax the Rich,” sparked considerable discussion. In 2025, the House Ethics Committee determined she violated House rules regarding her attendance and mandated a settlement payment.
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