Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) drew a mixed response from Democrats after appearing at the Munich Security Conference, where she joined global leaders and potential 2028 contenders to discuss international security and U.S. foreign policy.
Some party strategists said the appearance helped broaden her profile, while others argued it exposed gaps in her foreign policy readiness.
“It was a beauty pageant to show that she had some chops about international issues, and she showed a complete lack of chops about international issues,” New York Democratic strategist Hank Sheinkopf said, adding that “she’s not ready for prime time on the international stage.”
He argued the moment could provide “ammunition” for political opponents.
In Munich, Ocasio-Cortez urged leaders to prioritize working people and warned against isolation. “I think many of us are here to say: We are here and we are ready for the next chapter, not to have the world turn to isolation,” she said.
Clips of her remarks circulated online after she hesitated when asked about U.S. commitments to Taiwan and misspoke on Venezuela’s geography.
Other Democrats defended her, saying criticism reflects her growing influence. “They cannot find an answer or solution to her,” strategist Antjuan Seawright said.
Strategists noted foreign policy has been a weaker area for the congresswoman but said the trip raised her international visibility.
Ocasio-Cortez has avoided confirming any presidential plans, saying her ambition is “in changing our political environment.”
