Challenge to Ocasio-Cortez’s Bronx Roots

A New York lawmaker has taken a shot at Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s tough Bronx image by sharing a high school yearbook photo from her time in Heights, New York. Republican Rep. Matt Slater, who represents Yorktown, posted the photo on social media earlier this week, claiming it contradicts her public persona.

“Everyone in our community knows this is a boldface lie,” Slater said in an interview on “Fox & Friends First.” “She grew up in Yorktown. She was on my track team,” he added. Yorktown is a small town in northern Westchester, nearly an hour from the Bronx, characterized by its suburban vibe and “country touch.” Ocasio-Cortez graduated in 2007 from a local high school, where the mascot is the Cornhusker.

Despite the discussions surrounding her upbringing in Westchester, her early life in the Bronx has become a signature part of her political identity.

Slater explained that he decided to post the yearbook photo amid ongoing tensions between Ocasio-Cortez and former President Donald Trump. He referenced a recent statement from Ocasio-Cortez where she claimed her Bronx heritage, saying, “I’m a Bronx girl. You need to know that we can eat Queens boys for breakfast. With respect.”

Slater contended that these discussions highlight a larger “problem of authenticity” among Democrats, arguing that Ocasio-Cortez is not being truthful about her background. He further criticized other Democratic figures, naming California Governor Gavin Newsom and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, as examples of politicians who he believes distort aspects of their backgrounds for political advantage.

Slater concluded by asserting that such misrepresentation disconnects these politicians from their constituents. “This is just part of the big lie that they think will help them win elections,” he said.