How AOC Got Co-Opted By Establishment Democrats
AOC has shifted from left-wing insurgent to top Democratic Party fundraiser, which is winning her praise from the establishment but costing her support from her base.
- AOC now funnels millions to the same moderate Democrats she used to primary, becoming the party's top internal donor.
- She's dropped her support for primary challengers against incumbents and backs Hakeem Jeffries for speaker, angering the left flank of the party.
- Her base is souring over her softer stance on issues like Israel and Gaza, seeing it as a betrayal of what got her elected.
- The shift looks aimed at boosting her own future — possibly a Senate run against Chuck Schumer or a 2028 presidential bid — though she denies any ambitions.
- She missed out on a top Oversight Committee post anyway, a seat that would have given her major TV time attacking Trump-era corruption.
Outlook: Her establishment-friendly turn may buy her favorable media coverage now, but risks alienating the progressive base that built her political career.