AOC Announces Inauguration Day Absence, Criticizes “Rapists” in New Instagram Rant

Jan. 20, 2025, 3:20 pm ET

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  • Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) announced she will skip President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration.
  • AOC expressed her reasons on Instagram, stating she does not celebrate “rapists.”
  • Her comments reflect broader concerns about the incoming administration’s policies and ethos.

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Quick Brief

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Essential Context

On the eve of Donald Trump’s inauguration, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) made a series of passionate statements on Instagram. She vehemently expressed her decision not to attend the inauguration, citing her refusal to “celebrate rapists.”

Core Players

  • Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) – U.S. Representative for New York’s 14th congressional district
  • Donald Trump – President-elect of the United States
  • TikTok – Social media platform involved in AOC’s criticism

Key Numbers

  • Jan. 20, 2025 – Date of Trump’s inauguration
  • 14th congressional district – AOC’s constituency in New York
  • 2024 – Year of the presidential election that led to Trump’s second term

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The Catalyst

AOC’s decision to skip the inauguration was preceded by a series of Instagram rants. She criticized TikTok for a notification that thanked “President Trump” for potentially reinstating the app, despite him not yet being in office.

“Donald Trump is not president right now. He is a private citizen,” AOC emphasized.

Inside Forces

AOC’s sentiments reflect internal Democratic Party dynamics and broader progressive concerns about Trump’s administration. Her statements also highlight her outspoken and advocacy-driven approach to politics.

Her Instagram posts garnered significant attention and sparked discussions about the role of social media in political discourse.

Power Dynamics

AOC’s influence within the Democratic Party is substantial, and her views often resonate with progressive voters. Her refusal to attend the inauguration underscores the deep political divisions in the U.S.

“We are on the eve of an authoritarian administration. This is what 21st century fascism is starting to look like,” she warned her followers.

Outside Impact

AOC’s remarks have broader implications for political polarization and the public’s perception of the incoming administration. Her stance may galvanize opposition among liberal and progressive groups.

Conversely, it could also intensify partisan tensions and further divide public opinion.

Future Forces

Looking ahead, AOC’s actions and statements are likely to continue influencing policy debates and public discourse. Key areas of focus will include:

  • Regulatory policies under the new administration
  • Social media’s role in political communication
  • Progressive and liberal responses to Trump’s policies

Data Points

  • Jan. 20, 2025: Date of Trump’s second inauguration
  • AOC’s Instagram followers: Over 10 million
  • TikTok’s user base in the U.S.: Over 150 million
  • Number of congressional districts in New York: 27

AOC’s decision to skip the inauguration and her subsequent comments highlight the deep-seated political divisions in the U.S. As the country navigates this new political landscape, AOC’s voice is likely to remain a significant force in shaping public discourse and policy debates.