Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Then and Now

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Then

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez was born on October 13, 1989, in New York City, New York. 

She grew up in a family that faced economic challenges, with her mother working as a house cleaner and her father, who passed away in 2012, running a small business. 

Ocasio-Cortez has a younger brother, Gabriel, and the family moved to the suburban community of Yorktown Heights when she was five. 

It was there that she excelled academically, attending Yorktown High School, where she earned recognition for her intelligence. 

In 2007, she achieved a remarkable feat by placing second in the microbiology category at the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair.

This early success highlighted her potential and dedication to education. After graduating from high school, Ocasio-Cortez enrolled at Boston University. 

Her time at university was marked by significant experiences that shaped her worldview and commitment to public service. 

She interned for U.S. Senator Ted Kennedy, gaining firsthand insight into the legislative process. 

Additionally, during her second year, she navigated a challenging probate battle to settle her father’s estate, a struggle that deepened her understanding of the complexities faced by many families. 

Ocasio-Cortez graduated in 2011 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in international relations and economics, equipping her with the knowledge and skills to engage in public policy.

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Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Political Career

After completing her college education, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez entered the workforce as a bartender and waitress, a decision driven by the need to support her mother and prevent the foreclosure of their family home. 

During this time, she also founded Brook Avenue Press, a publishing firm aimed at positively representing the Bronx, and worked with the nonprofit National Hispanic Institute, focusing on developing leadership skills among Latino youth. 

Her involvement in community service laid a foundation for her political aspirations. 

In 2016, Ocasio-Cortez joined Bernie Sanders’ presidential campaign as an organizer, which proved to be a transformative experience. 

Traveling across the country to places like Flint, Michigan, and the Standing Rock Indian Reservation, she spoke with residents grappling with the water crisis and the Dakota Access Pipeline. 

These encounters with activists and grassroots movements inspired her, making politics feel more accessible and igniting her desire to pursue a political career.

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In April 2017, Ocasio-Cortez officially launched her campaign for Congress while juggling a job at a taqueria in Union Square, New York City. 

Challenging incumbent Joe Crowley, the Democratic Caucus Chair, she aimed to bring progressive change to her district. 

Despite being significantly outmatched in campaign financing—Crowley had an 18-to-1 funding advantage—Ocasio-Cortez focused on grassroots mobilization and refused corporate donations. 

The primary race was marked by Crowley’s absence from scheduled debates, with the two candidates meeting face-to-face only once throughout the campaign. 

Ocasio-Cortez received key endorsements from progressive organizations such as MoveOn and Democracy for America, contrasting with Crowley’s backing from established political figures. 

Her determination and connection with the electorate resonated, and she achieved a stunning victory in the primary, securing over 57% of the vote and earning recognition as one of the biggest upsets of the 2018 elections.

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Following her primary victory, Ocasio-Cortez faced Republican nominee Anthony Pappas in the general election. 

Pappas’s lack of an active campaign allowed Ocasio-Cortez to amplify her progressive message, which garnered her widespread support from notable figures, including former President Barack Obama and Senator Bernie Sanders. 

Ultimately, she won the election with 78% of the vote, contributing to a broader Democratic victory that allowed the party to regain control of the House of Representatives. 

At just 29 years old, she made history as the youngest woman to serve in the United States Congress and became a prominent voice for progressive ideals. 

Her tenure in office drew significant media attention, often placing her alongside 2020 presidential candidates in the public eye. 

As a member of “The Squad,” a group of progressive Congress members, Ocasio-Cortez collaborated with other young leaders like Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib to advocate for transformative policies.

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In 2022, Ocasio-Cortez faced no opposition in the Democratic primary and successfully defeated Republican Tina Forte and Conservative Party nominee Desi Cuellar in the general election. 

Her re-election solidified her position as a leading figure in Congress and demonstrated her continued popularity among constituents. 

Ocasio-Cortez’s political positions align with the Democratic Socialists of America, advocating for a range of progressive policies. 

She champions initiatives such as single-payer Medicare for All, tuition-free public college, the cancellation of student debt, and guaranteed family leave. 

Ocasio-Cortez has been vocal about abolishing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and privatized prisons, reflecting her commitment to social justice and human rights. 

Additionally, her environmental reforms, encapsulated in her Green New Deal, seek a transition to 100% renewable energy, positioning climate change as a critical security threat. 

Ocasio-Cortez’s bold proposals, including higher taxes on the wealthy to fund her initiatives, and her advocacy for civil rights for Puerto Ricans, demonstrate her commitment to progressive change and a more equitable society.

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Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Personal Life

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez identifies as Roman Catholic, a faith that has shaped her values and worldview. 

While campaigning for office in 2018, she lived in the Bronx with her partner, Riley Roberts, a web developer who has supported her throughout her political journey. 

Their relationship, characterized by mutual support and shared values, has been a source of strength for Ocasio-Cortez amid the pressures of public life. 

In April 2022, the couple became engaged during a trip to Puerto Rico, marking a significant personal milestone in their lives together. 

The couple’s engagement reflects Ocasio-Cortez’s commitment to both her personal and professional aspirations. 

However, the challenges of political life have not been without their tolls. Following the traumatic events of the January 6, 2021, attack on the United States Capitol, Ocasio-Cortez publicly shared her experience of seeking psychotherapy to cope with the aftermath. 

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Her openness about mental health emphasizes the importance of resilience and self-care, highlighting that even prominent figures in politics must navigate personal struggles while striving for broader societal change. 

This candid approach has resonated with many, reinforcing the idea that mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, particularly for those in high-pressure environments.

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Now

At just 35 years old, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, commonly known by her initials AOC, has established herself as a significant figure in American politics. 

Since taking office in 2019, she has served as the U.S. representative for New York’s 14th congressional district, which encompasses parts of the Bronx and Queens. 

Her election marked a historic moment, as she became one of the youngest women ever to serve in Congress, showcasing the potential for younger generations to influence the political landscape. 

A member of the Democratic Party, Ocasio-Cortez has become a leading voice for progressive policies, advocating for initiatives that address social, economic, and environmental issues.

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Born in the Bronx, Ocasio-Cortez’s upbringing in a working-class neighborhood informs her political perspectives and commitment to representing the interests of her constituents. 

Her background as the daughter of a small business owner and a cleaning service worker allows her to relate to the challenges faced by many residents in her district. 

Ocasio-Cortez’s journey from bartender to congresswoman exemplifies the power of grassroots movements and the importance of community engagement in driving political change. 

Her candid approach and ability to connect with diverse audiences have helped her gain a significant following, both nationally and internationally, as she continues to advocate for policies aimed at creating a more equitable society. 

Through her work in Congress, she has positioned herself as a prominent advocate for progressive ideals, inspiring a new generation of activists and politicians to challenge the status quo.

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Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Net Worth

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, an American politician and educator, has a net worth of approximately $200,000, reflecting her commitment to public service over personal wealth accumulation and highlighting her focus on representing the interests of her constituents rather than pursuing financial gain.

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