Ocasio-Cortez Rejoins Democratic Socialists Amid Growing Organization Influence

Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has renewed her membership with the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) after a seven-year lapse, coinciding with the organization’s increased national profile. The New York congresswoman, a potential 2028 presidential candidate, rejoined DSA as the group gains momentum following several Democratic primary victories, including defeating incumbents.

Although Ocasio-Cortez’s formal membership lapsed for seven years, she maintained a close alliance with DSA, which continued to recognize her as a member. In a statement to City & State New York, DSA confirmed her rejoining in August 2026, noting that her previous membership in 2018 had expired after a year.

DSA discovered the lapse when Ocasio-Cortez identified herself as part of its New York City chapter but not the national organization. This led DSA leaders to review her membership. Manual renewals were previously required, but now automatic renewals are in place.

“This is LOL in a gently humorous way rather than LOL in a mean way,” remarked Washington Post columnist Megan McArdle.

Skeptics, however, question the timing of Ocasio-Cortez’s membership renewal, correlating it with DSA’s rising popularity and her presidential ambitions.

Some used the occasion humorously, likening timely membership dues payments to FBI agents in communist circles, while others jested about DSA members paying rent.

The Washington Post reported internal DSA debates regarding their potential 2028 presidential endorsement, with Ocasio-Cortez at the center.

Ocasio-Cortez’s office did not comment when reached by Fox News Digital.