The rise of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez as a significant political figure in American politics is evident through two distinct speeches. The first was made at the 2020 Democratic National Convention, following her election to Congress as an insurgent progressive from New York. In her speech, Ocasio-Cortez expressed her commitment to a mass movement aimed at establishing contemporary social, economic, and human rights. She vowed to address racial injustice, colonization, misogyny, and homophobia, and to propose new immigration and foreign policy systems that reject the violence and xenophobia of the past. While she outlined leftist principles, the speech was mainly directed at her loyal supporters rather than a broader audience.
In contrast, Ocasio-Cortez’s recent performance at this year’s Democratic National Convention showcased her evolution. By linking her personal story to populist policies, the 34-year-old congresswoman energized the crowd, prompting enthusiastic chants of her name. The complex jargon of progressive circles was replaced with relatable and memorable phrases aimed at engaging a wider Democratic base. She made a bold statement against a fellow politician, criticizing their view of patriotism while asserting her commitment to advocating for working-class individuals. Ocasio-Cortez expressed pride in her working-class background, emphasizing that there is dignity in earning a living.
Several factors explain the stark contrast between these two speeches. The first occurred without a live audience during the COVID-19 pandemic, at a convention where she was primarily expected to rally leftist support for Joe Biden, rather than unify the entire Democratic Party. Importantly, Ocasio-Cortez’s political ambitions have shifted; she is now focused on shaping the direction of the Democratic Party in the long term.
Ocasio-Cortez embodies two seemingly conflicting identities: the everywoman bartender from the Bronx who challenged the political establishment, and the educated activist fluent in the language of academia. While these personas differ in style, they share common ground in substance. Her recent speeches reflect a decision to advocate not only for a leftist movement but also for the broader Democratic Party.
Once positioned as an outsider staging protests inside Nancy Pelosi’s office, she has emerged as an insider given a prime spot at the DNC. Ocasio-Cortez has succeeded in this transition by strategically engaging with the political process rather than forsaking her progressive values. She has transformed her role from a factional leader into a bridge between the mainstream and progressive factions within the party, distinguishing herself as a power broker rather than a perpetual outsider.
However, this shift has not been without its challenges. Recently, the Democratic Socialists of America revoked their endorsement of her due to her perceived inadequacy in addressing anti-Israel sentiments. Although Ocasio-Cortez has been a vocal critic of Israel’s actions in Gaza and the Biden administration’s stance, she has also condemned anti-Semitism within anti-Zionist circles and engaged with Jewish leaders on these issues. This approach, which deviated from some progressive activists’ expectations, has led to her being criticized by former allies.
Despite this fallout, during her DNC speech, Ocasio-Cortez was the first to mention Gaza, advocating for a cease-fire and the return of hostages. After her speech, even critics from the political center acknowledged her strong performance. For instance, Jay Jacobs, chairman of the New York State Democratic Party, who has previously dismissed her political stance, praised her speech at a gathering of New York Democrats.
Should Ocasio-Cortez maintain her current trajectory and navigate the intricacies of party dynamics, it is possible that she will position herself as a necessary player, potentially shifting the power dynamic where traditional political figures may find that they need her support more than she needs theirs.