Progressive voices on social media expressed strong disapproval of Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's recent endorsement of President Joe Biden's re-election bid. The New York Democrat's support for Biden's second term, announced on the "Pod Save America" podcast, drew sharp criticism, particularly in light of the president's decision to supply Ukraine with controversial cluster bombs.
Critics accused Ocasio-Cortez of abandoning her progressive and anti-war principles. Briahna Joy Gray, former press secretary for Bernie Sanders' 2020 presidential campaign, voiced disappointment, stating that endorsing Biden "is a betrayal of progressive interests." She questioned the timing of the endorsement and suggested leveraging other campaigns to highlight Biden's shortcomings on issues like Ukraine, healthcare, and more. Gray specifically condemned the endorsement in light of Biden's support for cluster bombs, referencing Ocasio-Cortez's previous statement that she and Biden wouldn't belong in the same party in a "normal country."
Other progressive commentators echoed these sentiments. The account "Neoliberal Tears" criticized the left for not being sufficiently critical of Ocasio-Cortez, while activist Laura Fielding called the Democratic Party "irredeemably" flawed and advocated for leaving it. Comedian Graham Elwood sarcastically praised Biden's performance, referencing "drilling permits on federal land and cluster bombs." Rebecca Bitton expressed disappointment, and the "Revolutionary Blackout Network" accused Ocasio-Cortez and Sanders of exploiting and betraying working-class voters.
Ocasio-Cortez, during her podcast appearance, defended her endorsement, citing Biden's performance despite "limitations." She highlighted the American Rescue Plan and the Inflation Reduction Act as positive achievements while acknowledging areas for improvement, such as immigration policy. Fox News Digital contacted Ocasio-Cortez's office for comment but has not yet received a response.
