Staff Reports
The recent release of a new book titled “The Squad: AOC and the Hope of a Political Revolution,” written by Ryan Grim, paints a picture of Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) as a “pariah” within her own party. According to the book, Ocasio-Cortez’s time in Congress has been characterized by a desire to “remake the system and be thanked for doing it,” which has resulted in a consistent pattern of “arrogance” and “hostility” towards her fellow Democrats.
Canceled meetings, mudslinging, and grandstanding: How AOC became a 'pariah' in her own party https://t.co/ltTsNPmVoW https://t.co/ltTsNPmVoW
— Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) December 5, 2023
Grim’s book delves into Ocasio-Cortez’s alleged refusal to meet with donors and her habit of abruptly canceling important meetings with other representatives. In addition, the book details how Ocasio-Cortez’s failure to pay dues to the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee in 2020 caused friction within the party. Grim asserts that these actions have led to Ocasio-Cortez’s alienation from her colleagues and an inability to garner support for her political agenda.
The book also highlights Ocasio-Cortez’s controversial appearance at the 2021 Met Gala, where she wore a dress emblazoned with the slogan “Tax the Rich.” Critics have pointed to this as a hypocritical move, given the extravagant nature of the event and Ocasio-Cortez’s failure to pay for the dress and accompanying accessories until after an ethics committee investigation began. The book suggests that Ocasio-Cortez’s actions have infuriated numerous organizations and further damaged her standing within the Democratic Party.
Grim’s portrayal of Ocasio-Cortez’s tenure in Congress depicts a lack of significant achievements, despite her popularity on social media and among liberal youths. The book argues that Ocasio-Cortez’s decision to vote outside her party and her strained relationships with her colleagues have hindered her ability to enact meaningful change in Congress.
Furthermore, Grim’s book outlines Ocasio-Cortez’s contentious relationship with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and highlights instances of disagreement between the two. Ocasio-Cortez’s criticism of Pelosi and her alignment with Sen. Bernie Sanders in the 2020 election before ultimately supporting President Joe Biden have exacerbated tensions within the Democratic Party, according to the book.
Overall, Grim’s book presents a portrait of Ocasio-Cortez as a divisive figure within the Democratic Party, whose actions and attitudes have alienated her from her colleagues and impeded her ability to effectively pursue her political goals.
