Fact Check: "AOC calls Cuomo's support 'cowardice'!"
What We Know
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) recently made headlines for her comments regarding Andrew Cuomo's support in the 2025 New York City mayoral race. In a statement, she described the backing of Cuomo by establishment figures as an act of "cowardice" given the availability of a diverse and talented candidate pool. AOC stated, "It is actually nuts that even when the NYC political establishment was presented with a broad field of talented candidates w/ many ideas, in a time of generational change & anti-corruption, they STILL chose to line up behind scandal-ridden Andrew Cuomo. It's cowardice" (Latin Times, MSN). This remark came shortly after she endorsed progressive candidate Zohran Mamdani, emphasizing the growing rift within the Democratic Party between its establishment and progressive factions.
Analysis
AOC's comments reflect a significant ideological divide within the Democratic Party, particularly in New York. Her use of the term "cowardice" is a pointed critique aimed at establishment figures who continue to support Cuomo despite his controversial past, including his resignation amid multiple sexual harassment allegations (Latin Times). The context of her statement is crucial; it was made during a politically charged period leading up to the mayoral primary, where early voting was already underway (MSN).
The sources reporting on this incident are credible and provide a consistent narrative of AOC's remarks. For instance, both Politico and Latin Times corroborate her statement and the implications it has for the Democratic Party's future. The framing of her comments as a rallying cry for progressive candidates suggests that AOC is not only addressing Cuomo's candidacy but also advocating for a broader shift in party dynamics.
However, it is essential to note that while AOC's remarks have garnered attention, they also reflect her position within a larger political strategy aimed at mobilizing progressive voters against a candidate who represents the establishment. The reliability of the sources is high, as they are established news outlets with a track record of political reporting.
Conclusion
The claim that AOC called Cuomo's support "cowardice" is True. Her statement was made publicly and has been widely reported across multiple reputable sources, confirming the accuracy of the claim. This incident highlights the ongoing tensions within the Democratic Party and AOC's role as a prominent voice for progressive change.
