Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez sparks debate over ‘Woke 1’ comments

Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has sparked political debate following comments regarding the era of progressive activism in 2020, which she referred to as ‘Woke 1’ and described as ‘crazy.’ During an interview, Ocasio-Cortez suggested that the political climate during the COVID-19 lockdowns created a unique opening for radical policy discussions, but noted that the rhetoric used then is not what would be employed today. She used the phrase to address questions about her past support for policies such as defunding the police.

Her comments drew criticism from various figures. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis argued that Democrats should not be allowed to dismiss past positions on law enforcement as mere historical anomalies. Additionally, some critics and former colleagues have expressed frustration, suggesting her comments downplay the real-world professional and social consequences faced by those involved in the movement at that time.

Separately, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi addressed the long-standing narrative of a ‘rocky’ relationship between herself and Ocasio-Cortez. Pelosi rejected this characterization, attributing the perception to the press and certain members of Ocasio-Cortez’s own circle. Pelosi specifically pointed to Saikat Chakrabarti, Ocasio-Cortez’s former chief of staff, noting his unsuccessful 2026 run for the California congressional seat previously held by Pelosi.