MoveOn is Proud to Endorse Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez for Congress!

Meet Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is committed to creating a country that works for everyone, not just the wealthy few. As the Congresswoman representing New York’s 14th District, she has become a national figure for progressive change and social justice. From her humble beginnings in The Bronx to her rise as a political leader, Alexandria’s journey is rooted in her commitment to working families and everyday Americans.

Early Life and Education

Born in The Bronx to working-class parents, Alexandria’s upbringing was shaped by the values of hard work and community. Her father was a small business owner and architect, while her mother, originally from Arecibo, Puerto Rico, cleaned homes to support the family. Seeking better educational opportunities for their children, Alexandria’s parents moved the family to Yorktown Heights, 30 miles north of the city. Commuting between The Bronx and school highlighted to Alexandria how much opportunities were influenced by one’s ZIP code.

Alexandria attended Boston University, where she studied Economics and International Relations. Her sophomore year brought tragedy when her father passed away from cancer at just 48 years old, leaving the family struggling with medical debt and facing foreclosure. These experiences inspired Alexandria to seek an internship with Sen. Ted Kennedy, where she saw firsthand how policy could impact people’s lives. Upon graduating, she returned to The Bronx and worked as an Educational Director for the National Hispanic Institute, mentoring youth in leadership and social enterprise. While pursuing her passion for education and community work, Alexandria also worked long hours in restaurants to support her family.

Political Awakening and Congressional Victory

Following Donald Trump’s election in 2016, Alexandria felt a deep responsibility to take action. She traveled to Standing Rock, where indigenous communities were protesting the construction of a dangerous pipeline. This experience solidified her resolve to enter public service. Running as a political outsider, she faced a heavily funded incumbent but ultimately won her primary in June 2018. Alexandria went on to become the first woman of color to represent New York’s 14th District and the youngest woman ever elected to Congress, where she continues to champion progressive causes and fight for working families.