AOC

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, commonly known as AOC, is an American politician and member of the United States House of Representatives, representing New York's 14th congressional district since 2019. She is a member of the Democratic Party and identifies with the progressive wing of the party; she has been associated with the Democratic Socialists of America.

Born on October 13, 1989, in the Bronx, New York City, Ocasio-Cortez earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics and international relations from Boston University in 2011. Before entering politics, she worked in the hospitality industry as a waitress and bartender and was active as a community organizer in New York City.

Ocasio-Cortez rose to national prominence after winning the 2018 Democratic primary against longtime incumbent Joe Crowley. She won the ensuing general election and became the youngest woman ever elected to Congress at the time. Her district includes parts of the Bronx and Queens. Since taking office in January 2019, she has focused on issues such as economic inequality, healthcare reform, climate action, housing, and immigration, and she has been a leading advocate for progressive policy initiatives, including the Green New Deal and Medicare for All.

In Congress, Ocasio-Cortez has participated in numerous legislative efforts, investigative inquiries, and public policy debates, leveraging social media and public appearances to communicate her views and mobilize support. Her rise has been cited as part of a broader movement of younger, progressive voices in American politics.