An event for Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., at Cornell University sparked controversy. Hosted by the Cornell University Young Democratic Socialists of America, the gathering witnessed chants of the anti-Israel slogan “from the river to the sea” from a packed audience.
The event, labeled “Students vs. Billionaires” by AOC’s campaign, saw roughly 2,000 attendees. Mina Petrova, the group’s president, criticized Cornell as a capitalist institution prioritizing profits over students, triggering applause. Co-chair Zoe Reisman added, “Student activism is not dead. Long live student resistance, and long live the student intifada.” The group did not respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment.
Backlash over the slogan’s use was significant. Jewish organizations have condemned the phrase as antisemitic.
“Here we stand as anti-imperialists and believe that nobody is disposable. We have a responsibility to stand in solidarity with oppressed peoples everywhere,” Reisman stated.
While addressing the audience, Ocasio-Cortez made no apologies, accusing Cornell of censorship on various issues, including Palestine. She emphasized the need for collective response to suppressive actions against activists.
AOC’s campaign aims to increase voter turnout in Democratic strongholds. However, a recent Fox News Poll shows 55% of registered voters view the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) unfavorably. Only about 30% hold a positive stance.
The national skepticism toward the DSA and broader socialist movement persists, even as America’s political landscape evolves. The GOP seeks to capitalize on this sentiment for midterm elections.