AOC Backs Socialist Mamdani in D.C. Amid Democratic Divide and GOP Attacks

In a move that has sent ripples through the Democratic Party, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has rolled out the welcome mat for Zohran Mamdani, the self-described democratic socialist who clinched the New York City primary last month. The duo hosted a 'Communication and Organizing Skillshare Breakfast' in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday, a symbolic gesture of unity in a party grappling with ideological divides.

Ocasio-Cortez, a prominent progressive voice, has been a staunch supporter of Mamdani, campaigning alongside him in New York and now introducing him to the nation’s capital. The event, initially set at the National Democratic Club before a last-minute venue switch to a nearby restaurant, drew a mix of curiosity and cautious optimism from party members. AOC expressed hope that this face-to-face interaction would help bridge gaps, emphasizing Mamdani’s focus on affordability issues like rent freezes and childcare for working New Yorkers.

Yet, the road ahead for Mamdani isn’t paved with unanimous support. Key New York Democratic heavyweights, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, have yet to throw their weight behind him. While both leaders have meetings scheduled with Mamdani in the coming days, their hesitation signals a broader tension within the party about his progressive stance.

The breakfast drew a diverse crowd of lawmakers, with some praising Mamdani’s authenticity and digital campaign savvy, while others, like Rep. Tom Suozzi, stayed away, highlighting the ideological fault lines. Meanwhile, Republicans are seizing the moment, painting Mamdani as the face of a leftward-drifting Democratic Party, with the RNC and NRCC eager to tie vulnerable Democrats to his 'radical socialist' label in upcoming elections.

Adding fuel to the fire, former President Donald Trump chimed in, calling Mamdani a 'Communist' while suggesting Andrew Cuomo, now running as an independent, could still win the mayoral race. Mamdani’s campaign fired back with a sharp quip, congratulating Cuomo on Trump’s 'endorsement' and questioning whether he’d embrace it publicly.

As Mamdani navigates this political minefield, his potential to become New York City’s first Muslim mayor in November hangs in the balance, with affordability as his rallying cry and party unity as his biggest challenge. This story is far from over, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.