Ocasio-Cortez Shows Her True Colors
Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a Democrat from New York and a prominent member of the “Squad,” stirred controversy when she accused the American-Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) of being an “extremist organization” that she believes is contributing to the destabilization of American democracy. The allegations arose during a period of heightened tension in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
According to Fox, Ocasio-Cortez, known for her vocal criticism of Israeli policies, did not mince words when she characterized AIPAC as “racist” and “bigoted” towards lawmakers of color. Her statements were met with sharp rebuke, especially considering her earlier assertion that Israel had committed “war crimes.”
Moreover, Ocasio-Cortez contended that AIPAC had endorsed individuals who participated in the January 6th insurrection, emphasizing her belief that the organization does not align with American democratic values. She further alleged that AIPAC disproportionately targets members of color, further deepening her criticisms of the organization.
AIPAC swiftly responded to Ocasio-Cortez’s accusations, criticizing the congresswoman for perpetuating what they considered “tired lies” and “spin.” The pro-Israel political action committee maintained its stance that it stands with pro-Israel Democrats and Republicans from various backgrounds who support the U.S.-Israel alliance, contrasting this with Ocasio-Cortez and the “Squad” who, according to AIPAC, do not.
AIPAC’s website reflects its mission to foster bipartisan support for the U.S.-Israel relationship, emphasizing it as a core American value. They believe in bringing together Democrats and Republicans to advance this shared mission, contributing to the strengthening of the partnership between the two nations.
Ocasio-Cortez’s accusations against AIPAC came in response to a post from the organization that criticized members of the “Squad,” along with Kentucky GOP Representative Thomas Massie, for voting against a House resolution supporting Israel during its conflict with Gaza. The “Squad” members, which include Ocasio-Cortez and other progressive congresspeople, have consistently voiced their concerns regarding Israel’s actions in the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Additionally, student groups at various universities, including Harvard, defended the attacks on Oct. 7th and held Israel “entirely responsible for all unfolding violence.” This indicates a complex and contentious landscape where diverse viewpoints on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict coexist within American society.