Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, also known
as AOC, has made a meteoric rise from working as a bartender to becoming one of the most influential members of Congress. Since being elected in 2018, AOC has made a significant impact on the Democratic party and New York, challenging the traditional political structure and calling for changes to the way the party operates.
AOC grew up in a working-class family in the Bronx. Her father ran his own small business and her Puerto Rican mother cleaned houses. Wanting to give their daughter more opportunities than Bronx public schools could offer, they sent her to a public school 40 minutes north of their home.
After graduating from Boston University with degrees in Economics and International Relations, AOC worked as an Educational Director with the National Hispanic Institute, helping Americans, DREAMers and undocumented youth in community leadership and college readiness.
In 2018, AOC launched her first campaign for Congress. Despite being seen as a long shot, she defeated incumbent Joe Crowley in a major primary upset in New York City. Since being elected to Congress, AOC has been a vocal advocate for progressive policies and has challenged the traditional political structure of the Democratic party.
Some of AOC's notable achievements include her role in impeaching President Trump, her advocacy for raising the federal minimum wage through the Raise The Wage Act, and her support for trans rights. She has also reintroduced her Green New D
eal legislation with new co-sponsors and raised millions for victims of the winter storm in Texas.
But AOC's journey hasn't been without its challenges. As a high-profile, second-term lawmaker, she’s often targeted by conservatives. Despite these challenges, AOC continues to be a vocal advocate for progressive policies and has made significant contributions to her constituents and the Democratic party.
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