Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., voiced strong criticism this week after Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer backed a Republican-led bill that helped prevent a government shutdown. She called the decision “a tremendous mistake” and said it felt like a "huge slap in the face."
Ocasio-Cortez, often referred to as AOC, expressed her frustration during several interviews. Speaking to CNN, she said she couldn’t understand why Senate Democrats gave up their leverage without getting anything in return.
"It is almost unthinkable why Senate Democrats would vote to hand the few pieces of leverage that we have away for free," she said.
Frustration Within the Democratic Party
Her remarks came as the bill moved forward in the Senate. Although Schumer did not vote on the bill itself, he played a key role in advancing the legislation by supporting a procedural vote. That move allowed the full Senate to vote on the bill, which passed 54-46 on Friday evening. The bill is now set to be signed into law by President Donald Trump.
The decision has sparked internal debates among Democrats. Some are questioning their leadership’s strategy, especially during a time when Republicans control the White House and both chambers of Congress.
Schumer Defends His Position
Schumer spoke on the Senate floor Thursday and said the bill was not ideal, but better than a shutdown. "This bill is a terrible option," he said. "But I believe allowing Donald Trump to take even much more power via a government shutdown is a far worse option."
The bill funds the government through September, avoiding a shutdown but raising concerns among progressives who say it gives too much control to the executive branch.
AOC Questions the Bill’s Impact
Ocasio-Cortez said the legislation gives Donald Trump and advisor Elon Musk far too much control over federal funding. "This turns the federal government into a slush fund for Donald Trump and Elon Musk," she said during her CNN appearance.
She added that the bill weakens congressional power and shows little bipartisan effort.
Speculation Over a Senate Challenge
Ocasio-Cortez’s strong remarks led to questions about whether she would challenge Schumer for his Senate seat in 2028. Schumer also represents New York, making such a race possible in the future.
When asked directly about a potential run, AOC didn’t confirm or deny it. Instead, she stressed the importance of having a Senate Democratic caucus that stands united for the country.
"I think that what we need right now is a united Senate Democratic caucus that can stand up for this country," she said.
Democrats Face Internal Debate
The disagreement between progressive and centrist Democrats continues to grow as they navigate a political landscape dominated by Republican leadership. Many progressives believe the party needs to be more assertive in pushing back against Republican-led efforts.
As more Democrats express frustration, AOC’s comments reflect a broader demand within the party for stronger opposition and clearer strategy.
With a growing number of voices calling for change, Democratic leaders face rising pressure to prove they can protect key values while navigating a divided Washington.
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