Upset N.Y. winner tight with Pressley
The self-described “Democratic socialist” who ousted a 10-term, New York congressman in a Democratic primary has a strong connection to a Massachusetts progressive also facing off against an incumbent.
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, 28, a Boston University alumna, knocked off Joe Crowley, the No. 4 House Democrat, in Tuesday’s primary.
City Councilor at-large Ayanna Pressley tweeted a photo of the pair after the results were in, congratulating her on the victory.
“Her campaign has been dynamic and inspiring, and it’s about more than one election — it’s about building a movement of people standing up and demanding to be heard,” Pressley told the Herald. “The job description for Representatives in Congress has changed. In deep blue districts like New York’s 14th and the Massachusetts 7th, voters are asking for more than a reliable vote — they are asking for committed, activist leadership.”
Ocasio-Cortez responded to the tweet by quoting Pressley, “‘The people closest to the pain should be closest to the power.’ -@AyannaPressley. Vote her next, Massachusetts.’”
Pressley is in the middle of a campaign against Rep. Michael E. Capuano, also a 10-term incumbent. The Bay State holds its primary in September.
Ocasio-Cortez also made an impression during her time at BU.
“As someone who knew her quite well … I was ecstatic for her and the people she is trying to serve but there’s also a level of me saying, that’s what I expected,” said Ken Elmore, dBoston University dean of students. “I just am so overwhelmed that it happened so soon.”
Ocasio-Cortez graduated cum laude in 2011, studying economics and international relations. While there, she worked for Sen. Edward M. Kennedy handling foreign affairs and immigration casework.
Elmore was first introduced to “Sandy,” by a friend who said, “She’s the smartest person I know.”
“For me, that was clear right away,” Elmore said.
Ocasio-Cortez, a former Bernie Sanders campaign organizer, threw a spotlight on the Democratic Party’s search for a new identity in the age of President Trump.
“I’m hoping that more candidates like me are victorious in their primaries and I hope that we can focus on getting money out of politics and championing the social economic and racial justice and rights of all working class Americans,” she said.