NewsNation host Chris Cuomo took aim at Democratic Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) on Monday, arguing her approach to immigration highlights why Democrats underperformed in November’s election. Cuomo’s comments followed President Donald Trump’s victory over Vice President Kamala Harris, largely credited to Trump’s focus on resolving the immigration crisis.
Cuomo criticized Ocasio-Cortez’s reaction to Trump’s standoff with Colombia over deportation flights. Trump’s threat of tariffs on Colombian goods led the country to reverse its refusal to accept deportees, an outcome Cuomo described as a success. Ocasio-Cortez’s response, which focused on potential inflation impacts, drew fire from Cuomo. “Now she cares about inflation. You’re trying too hard, lady,” he remarked, noting that the rhetoric missed the broader policy achievement.
Cuomo argued that Ocasio-Cortez represents a larger problem for Democrats, focusing on attacking Trump rather than addressing voter priorities like immigration. “Democrats, don’t hate — facilitate. Hate is the MAGA game,” Cuomo advised. He emphasized that Democratic rhetoric needs to shift toward actionable solutions rather than political grandstanding.
While acknowledging Ocasio-Cortez’s passionate advocacy, Cuomo noted it has not translated into meaningful legislative achievements. “She’s made a great platform for herself in Congress — not through legislative achievement, not through even really messaging that has resonated in the country in a real way, but it works for herself,” he said.
Cuomo highlighted Ocasio-Cortez’s opposition to key immigration measures, including emergency border funding in 2019 and Biden’s asylum executive order, which had temporarily reduced border crossings. These stances, Cuomo argued, illustrate a disconnect with mainstream voter concerns.
Polls show immigration was a decisive factor in Trump’s improved performance among swing voters, Latinos, and independents. Cuomo suggested that Ocasio-Cortez’s hardline positions alienated these groups, ultimately harming the Democratic Party’s broader appeal.
Cuomo further emphasized the electoral consequences of Democrats’ handling of immigration issues, pointing to Trump’s gains in key demographics. Swing voters, particularly in battleground states, shifted toward Trump as immigration became a central issue. Exit polls indicated significant support for stricter border policies among independents and Latinos, groups Democrats have traditionally relied on. Cuomo suggested that failure to address these concerns pragmatically not only cost Democrats the presidency but also weakened their foothold in crucial congressional districts, signaling the need for a recalibrated approach.
