Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, often referred to as AOC, is an American politician and activist currently serving as the U.S. Representative for New York's 14th congressional district. She assumed office on January 3, 2019, and her current term ends on January 3, 2027. Born on October 13, 1989, in the Bronx, New York City, she is the youngest woman ever elected to Congress. Prior to entering politics, Ocasio-Cortez gained experience as an educational director, children's book publisher, waitress, and bartender, and she also volunteered for Bernie Sanders' 2016 presidential campaign. She holds Bachelor of Arts degrees in Economics and International Relations from Boston University.
AOC is known for her progressive politics, community activism, and significant social media presence. She advocates for policies including Medicare for All, tuition-free public colleges, a Green New Deal, and abolishing ICE. Ocasio-Cortez is a member of the Democratic Socialists of America and a leader within the left-wing faction of the Democratic Party. Recently, Ocasio-Cortez has been focused on issues such as combating corporate price gouging, supporting community projects in her district, and advocating for the DEFIANCE Act to protect against AI-generated deepfakes. She is also positioning herself as a leading voice on foreign policy, planning to present a left-wing alternative at the Munich Security Conference.