Democrats split on AOC as some battleground candidates distance themselves from ‘Squad’ lawmaker

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., is fast becoming a central figurehead in the 2026 midterm election cycle, and a polarizing one at that.

Some moderate candidates are shunning the progressive rising star’s endorsement, Axios reported this week, while others in tight races are welcoming her with open arms.

Several Democratic strategists who spoke with Fox News Digital said they were not shocked that some on the left are keeping her at arm’s length.

“It wasn’t especially surprising, like, her numbers with independent voters aren’t always great, and it’s very circumstantial depending upon where you would want to deploy somebody with that type...