On Sunday, August 13, 2026, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) addressed questions about some of the more inflammatory comments and positions from the left wing of the Democratic Party. Quoting New York City Council member Chi Ossé, Ocasio-Cortez remarked, “Woke 1 was crazy,” before laughing along with the sentiment. This statement reflects a recognition within the party of a shift away from earlier, more extreme expressions associated with the "woke" era.

The comments highlight an evolving stance among Democrats as they reconsider the tone and approach of their progressive wing.

Sources