*Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s First-Class Travel to Sanders Rally Sparks Criticism*
Socialist Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez made headlines when she was photographed flying first class to a Bernie Sanders event last month. Critics seized on the moment, suggesting that her choice of travel demonstrated a contradiction in her fight against inequality, with some sarcastically remarking that she was battling for justice “one mimosa at a time.”
A fellow passenger captured the moment as AOC settled comfortably in the spacious first-class cabin of JetBlue Flight 511 on March 19, departing from JFK Airport in Queens en route to Las Vegas, where she was scheduled to speak at a Sanders rally themed “Fighting Oligarchy.”
The following day, Ocasio-Cortez, alongside her socialist ally Senator Bernie Sanders, headlined “Fighting Oligarchy” events in North Vegas and at Arizona State University in Tempe. Despite being hailed as a champion of equality, the congresswoman appeared to have ignored well-wishers on the flight, opting instead to relax in first class and address income inequality on social media.
“AOC is fighting the system one first-class mimosa at a time,” remarked Tracey, a passenger from Brooklyn onboard the economy cabin, who observed the scene unfold.
The image of Ocasio-Cortez in first class, casually leaning over in her seat, sparked criticism from some New York politicians who accused her of hypocrisy. State Conservative Party Chairman Gerard Kassar highlighted the contrast between her actions and her proclaimed principles, calling her conduct “rich in hypocrisy.”
Despite these criticisms, AOC remained focused on her message at the subsequent rallies, emphasizing the need for the community to vote for Democratic leaders who prioritize the working class. She called for a stronger Democratic Party that fights for the people, stating, “We’re gonna throw these bums out and fight for the nation we deserve.”
The events followed Ocasio-Cortez’s public criticism of New York Senator Chuck Schumer for his stance on a funding measure, which she labeled a “betrayal.” Some progressives are now rallying for AOC to challenge Schumer in a primary race for the Senate in 2028.
Sanders’ rallies, meanwhile, were motivated by the changes in government policy, including a crackdown on illegal immigration, implemented by President Trump and his associate Elon Musk, overseeing the Department of Government Efficiency.
