Ocasio-Cortez needs to pay up.
New York Democrat Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has been hit with a new ethics penalty over her infamous 2021 Met Gala appearance — the one where she wore the now-notorious “Tax the Rich” designer gown.
According to the House Ethics Committee, AOC must pay an additional $3,000 after investigators determined she had accepted impermissible gifts in violation of House rules and federal law.
Her original payment for the gown rental was “far below” market value, amounting to an unethical gift.
What the Committee Found
Ocasio-Cortez had previously paid $990.76 to rent the gown and accessories. But the committee now says the real rental value was closer to $3,724, and she must repay the difference — $2,733.28.
The report also revealed:
- AOC’s fiancé’s $250 meal must be reimbursed to the Met Costume Institute
- A custom hairpiece she wore wasn’t accounted for, requiring an additional $36.71
- Her glam team and designer were paid months late, sparking vendor complaints
Despite claims of good-faith efforts, the panel found that AOC’s team relied on flawed cost estimates and compared her luxury designer gown to low-cost items on Rent the Runway — a comparison the committee called “misleading and inappropriate.”
A $10,000+ Night on the Town
With the new fine added to previous reimbursements, AOC’s total out-of-pocket cost for the Met Gala now exceeds $10,000.
This includes:
- Makeup and hair
- Hotel accommodations
- Private transportation
- Designer dress rental
- Accessories including shoes, bag, and jewelry
Ocasio-Cortez’s counsel argued she couldn’t have anticipated some of the costs — but the committee noted that as a sitting congresswoman, she should have exercised greater caution.
“Tax the Rich” – But Wear Their Clothes?
This latest scandal once again puts the spotlight on the double standards of far-left politicians who preach socialism while enjoying the perks of high society.
AOC built her brand railing against the wealthy — yet attended an exclusive $35,000-per-ticket gala wearing a $19,000 designer gown, all while lecturing working Americans about inequality.
Closing the Case – But Not the Questions
The Ethics Committee said it now considers the matter closed — assuming Ocasio-Cortez repays the outstanding balance.
AOC’s team issued a carefully worded statement, saying she “appreciates the Committee’s findings” and will comply.
But for millions of hard-working Americans, the message is clear: When it comes to the liberal elite, it’s one set of rules for them — and another for everyone else.
