Ocasio-Cortez Sparks Conservative Criticism Over ‘Woke’ Remarks
Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a Democrat from New York, has dismissed past far-left rhetoric from herself and other socialist politicians as outdated. However, many conservatives remain unconvinced. During an appearance on ABC’s ‘This Week,’ host Jon Karl asked Ocasio-Cortez to address comments made by Wisconsin gubernatorial candidate Francesca Hong. These comments, considered controversial, include calling for Thanksgiving to be canceled and the abolition of prisons, statements Hong has been attempting to retract as she campaigns for the Democratic nomination in her state.
Ocasio-Cortez responded to Karl’s question with laughter, referencing remarks made by a local city councilman. She emphasized the importance of evaluating what candidates say presently. This statement was met with swift backlash from conservative figures.
Tim Graham, Executive Editor of NewsBusters at the Media Research Center, expressed skepticism about dismissing past statements. He argued that downplaying such comments appears desperate. Graham criticized Hong for her previous attacks on holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, suggesting these views question her readiness for political office. He noted a pattern among Democrats to moderate their image once radicals secure a primary victory, dismissing past statements as misconstrued or outdated.
Jesse Arm from the Manhattan Institute also criticized Democrats’ inability to distance themselves from controversial viewpoints from the ‘Woke 1’ era. Arm highlighted issues such as biological men in women’s sports and race-based discrimination as contentious topics. Arm argued these positions haven’t been renounced, drawing attention to how politicians like Ocasio-Cortez have shifted from alarmist language, especially concerning climate change, to more moderated stances without acknowledging earlier radical claims.
Conservative voices on social media, such as Texas Representative Brandon Gill, echoed these sentiments. Gill criticized the attempt to downplay previous divisive politics as a mere misunderstanding now that they have grown unpopular. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis further articulated this opposition, interpreting ‘woke’ ideology as a falsehood they have successfully challenged. Commentator Ryan James Girdusky labeled the shift in rhetoric as a convenient excuse for radical positions held until recently.