12 Must-Know Facts About the Rising Political Star Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (2 of 3)

She used to be a bartender

Before running for office, AOC worked as a bartender. In fact, she has spoken publicly about her experience working in the service industry and how it informed her political views. AOC has said that her time as a bartender gave her a unique perspective on issues such as income inequality, healthcare, and workers’ rights. 

AOC is a Bronx native

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is indeed a Bronx native. She was born on October 13, 1989, in the New York City borough of the Bronx. Her upbringing is a factor she cites as a major influence on her political beliefs and journey. 

She helped to found “The Squad”

AOC is a founding member of a group of progressive congresswomen known as “the Squad.” Along with Ilhan Omar, Ayanna Pressley, and Rashida Tlaib, AOC has advocated for issues such as health care reform, climate change action, and immigration reform.

She does not support corporate influence

AOC has been a strong critic of the influence of corporate lobbyists in Washington, D.C. She has argued that these lobbyists have too much power and are able to sway policy decisions in favor of their clients, often at the expense of the American people.

AOC supports Medical for All

While Medicare for All is a controversial issue, with supporters and detractors on both sides, AOC has been a vocal advocate for the policy and has helped to bring the issue to the forefront of political discourse in the United States.

She has major support from grassroots sources

AOC’s prominence has been largely attributed to the support she has received from grassroots movements across the country. One of the key factors that has contributed to AOC’s success is her ability to connect with young people and people of color, who have historically been underrepresented in politics. Because of this, her campaign was fueled by grassroots support from a diverse coalition of individuals and organizations.