AOC is in trouble.
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), one of the most vocal progressive leaders in Congress, is facing a challenging period following a significant political loss. This week, Ocasio-Cortez’s bid to lead the House Oversight and Accountability Committee was thwarted by Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-Va.), a veteran of the party at 74 years old. While Connolly’s victory may seem like a minor development, it has ignited frustration among progressive activists and raised questions about the future of Ocasio-Cortez’s role in Washington.
For years, Ocasio-Cortez, a member of the “Squad,” has been one of the most prominent faces of the Democratic Party’s left wing. However, her inability to secure a leadership position over Connolly—a centrist veteran of the party—signals that there is growing resistance within the Democratic establishment to her brand of left-wing populism. The decision to promote Connolly, rather than embrace a more radical change in leadership, suggests that moderate Democrats are pushing back against the surge of progressive ideology that has gained traction in recent years.
This development is significant not only because it reflects internal party struggles, but also because it casts doubt on Ocasio-Cortez’s prospects for future leadership roles. Many Republicans have long criticized her progressive views, often portraying her as a symbol of everything wrong with the left. However, her defeat within her own party could indicate that her path to national prominence may be more difficult than previously thought.
Progressive voices have been quick to suggest that Ocasio-Cortez should use this setback as an opportunity to break away from the constraints of Washington politics. By stepping outside the traditional structures of the House, she could continue to push a bold anti-establishment agenda, advocating for changes in how government works—particularly in terms of corporate influence, military spending, and social justice.
However, Ocasio-Cortez’s approach to the loss has been somewhat muted, offering a measured response rather than a fiery critique of party leadership. Some activists have expressed disappointment that she did not make a more forceful statement against the establishment’s decision to elevate Connolly. In particular, they argue that Ocasio-Cortez should challenge the Democratic establishment’s reliance on seniority and its failure to embrace fresh, populist voices.
The question now is whether Ocasio-Cortez will continue to play by the traditional political rules or seize this moment to redefine her path. Some Democratic leaders, like Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.), remain optimistic about her future, noting that her popularity and influence, especially among younger voters, are undeniable. Raskin even suggested that Ocasio-Cortez could play a significant role in future efforts to reduce government waste, particularly in areas like corporate welfare and military spending, areas where Republicans have shown a willingness to cut spending.
But as the party shifts and recalibrates after years of internal divisions, it’s unclear whether the Democratic leadership will be willing to take risks on a candidate like Ocasio-Cortez, whose bold ideas and anti-establishment rhetoric have often put her at odds with party leaders. For many conservatives, her continued rise within the Democratic ranks would be a cause for concern, but her setback this week could be a sign that even within her own party, the progressive firebrand is struggling to maintain the influence she once held.
In the coming years, Ocasio-Cortez’s ability to maneuver through the political landscape will be crucial. Will she remain a force within the Democratic Party, or will she carve out a new role, challenging not just Republicans but her own party’s leadership? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: her next move will be closely watched, and it could shape the future of American politics.