U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez responded critically to former Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy’s dismissal of the Democratic strategy to label the GOP presidential contenders as “weird” in a discussion on X.
Ramaswamy had condemned this tactic as childish and unhelpful, arguing for a focus on substantive policy issues instead. He described the Democrats’ approach as “dumb & juvenile,” comparing it to a high school popularity contest rather than a serious presidential election. Ramaswamy also noted the irony of this criticism coming from a party that champions “diversity & inclusion,” urging that the focus should be on policy rather than superficial judgments.
In response to Ramaswamy’s July 28 comment, Ocasio-Cortez made a sharp retort. She criticized what she sees as a preoccupation with controlling women, accusing Ramaswamy of promoting an “incel platform” and suggesting that his focus on LGBTQ+ people and childless individuals is abnormal and unsettling.
Ocasio-Cortez’s remarks followed criticism of Ramaswamy’s close associate, Sen. JD Vance, who has faced backlash for previous comments, including disparaging childless women and proposing higher taxes for those without children. Ramaswamy, echoing Vance’s views, stated in a July 29 post that while legal immigrants should have opportunities in America, those who enter illegally should be returned to their countries of origin due to their lawbreaking.
Ramaswamy and Vance, who were classmates and friends at Yale Law School, have a long-standing connection. Ramaswamy also addressed concerns about the perceived conflict between native Black Americans and immigrants, asserting that Republicans aim to ensure safe neighborhoods, clean streets, good jobs, and equal treatment within the justice system for all Americans, irrespective of race or political affiliation.