AOC wins Democratic primary in New York’s 14th district.

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez emerged victorious in her Democratic primary challenge against former investment banker Marty Dolan on Tuesday night. The Associated Press declared her win shortly after polls closed at 9 pm.

Representing New York’s 14th Congressional District, which spans parts of the Bronx and Queens, Ocasio-Cortez has held her position since 2019. Marty Dolan, 66, positioned himself as a “progressive” Democrat in contrast to the “radical” label he assigned to Ocasio-Cortez during his campaign. Dolan aimed to present himself as the solution to Ocasio-Cortez’s purported failures in addressing immigration, tax policies, and tackling New York City’s economic challenges.

Dolan expressed his belief that the public had grown tired of radical ideologies, claiming that individuals were fed up with such approaches. He also criticized Ocasio-Cortez, stating that she was absent in addressing community issues and crime, instead focusing on actions that garner her fame.

Ocasio-Cortez, a pivotal member of the left-wing “Squad” in Congress, made a groundbreaking entry into politics in 2018 by unseating a 10-term incumbent through the Democratic primary at just 29 years old. She has since become a prominent voice among progressive Democrats, drawing substantial support from youth and Democratic Socialist voters.

However, Ocasio-Cortez has faced mounting criticism from both moderate Democrats and Republicans, particularly following her comments on Israel. After Hamas initiated attacks on Israel on October 7, sparking ongoing hostilities, Ocasio-Cortez condemned Israel’s actions and labeled Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a “war criminal.” Her statements have fueled tensions and raised concerns among various political factions.

The primary election coincided with Ocasio-Cortez’s joint appearance with fellow Squad member Jamaal Bowman at a rally that drew controversy due to Bowman’s impassioned speech laced with profanity. At the rally in Mott Haven, Bowman criticized the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), a pro-Israel advocacy group supporting his Democratic primary opponent, George Latimer. Bowman’s fiery rhetoric aimed at AIPAC drew mixed reactions.

Rep. Ritchie Torres, a colleague of Ocasio-Cortez and Bowman, criticized Bowman’s speech as an “unhinged tirade” not representative of the South Bronx community’s values. The event highlighted the tension and diverse viewpoints within the Democratic Party.

During the rally, Ocasio-Cortez herself garnered attention for her animated delivery, including moments captured on social media where she energetically interacted with the crowd. Videos circulating online showed her passionately engaging with attendees amid the backdrop of Cardi B’s music and a charged atmosphere.

The rally served as a platform to rally support for Bowman ahead of his primary contest against Latimer, a seasoned politician with a track record spanning several decades. The dynamics of the event underscored the complexities and confrontations within the political landscape, reflecting wider debates on policy, representation, and party identity.