In a blistering critique on his Chris Cuomo Project podcast on July 15, former CNN anchor Chris Cuomo called Representative Alexandria Ocasio‑Cortez “a symbol of the demise of the Democratic Party.” Cuomo argued her radical socialist agenda favors a vocal minority over the broader American electorate and urged Democrats to shift away from figures like her to regain appeal.
Cuomo stated Democrats are making “a huge f‑‑‑‑g mistake” by focusing attention on AOC and other far‑left figures, which he believes legitimizes extreme ideologies—warning of backlash that could dwarf previous controversies like transgender sports. He said, “If you think trans sports got you in a pickle, you’re about to be in a whole bucket of brine”.
Supporting Cuomo’s assessment, veteran strategist James Carville also criticized Democrats for allowing progressive icons like AOC and Sen. Bernie Sanders to define the party. Carville urged shifting the spotlight to a wider talent pool to rebuild a mainstream identity.
Cuomo’s comments follow broader concern in Democratic circles over the party’s shift leftward. He pointed to moderate immigration policy and anti‑terror sensibilities as areas where radical positions risk alienating voters. His critique comes as former Gov. Andrew Cuomo enters the NYC mayoral general election against moderate challenger Zohran Mamdani.
