Controversy Surrounds AOC’s Comments on ‘Woke’ Ideology

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, representing New York’s 14th congressional district, recently dismissed previous far-left rhetoric, indicating a shift in stance. However, this change has not convinced all critics. During an appearance on ABC’s “This Week,” host Jon Karl questioned her about the past controversial comments of Wisconsin gubernatorial candidate Francesca Hong regarding topics like canceling Thanksgiving and abolishing prisons. Hong has attempted to distance herself from these comments while pursuing the Democratic nomination.

Ocasio-Cortez, laughing, quoted a local councilman saying, “Woke 1 was crazy.” She emphasized assessing candidates based on current statements. This remark attracted criticism from conservatives.

ALEXANDRIA OCASIO-CORTEZ SHRUGS OFF PAST ‘DEFUND THE POLICE’ COMMENTS, JOKING ‘WOKE 1 WAS CRAZY’

Ocasio-Cortez faced backlash for joking about Democrats possibly distancing themselves from “woke” ideology. Tim Graham, Executive Editor of NewsBusters at the Media Research Center, criticized proponents, noting that previous statements such as calls to cancel Thanksgiving remain significant. He pointed out that Hong criticized other holidays like Valentine’s Day and Halloween, describing them as provocative.

Graham explained that once radical Democrats win primaries, party strategists try to make them seem more moderate to voters. They claim old statements are outdated, although they may still reflect current views. He suggested that tweets from figures like Hong may reveal a temperament not ready for broader political exposure.

Jesse Arm, Vice President and Pollster at the Manhattan Institute, suggested Democrats must clarify which early views they no longer support. As examples, he mentioned sex-change operations for minors and race-based policies. He argued that they haven’t renounced any past positions.

Arm recalled that Ocasio-Cortez predicted the world might end in a few years due to climate change. Critics now urge her to acknowledge inaccuracies in past statements, especially after leftist excesses were rejected by voters.

Meanwhile, commentators responded to Ocasio-Cortez’s interview. Rep. Brandon Gill from Texas criticized the attempt to downplay efforts to reshape the country. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis echoed this by stating that “woke” represented an attack on truth. Conservative commentator Ryan James Girdusky suggested “Woke 1 was crazy” is a new excuse for recent extreme positions.

Story contributions can be directed to Alexander Hall at Fox News Digital.