Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Revives Democratic Socialists of America Membership

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has renewed her membership with the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) after a seven-year lapse. The DSA’s national profile is on the rise, and the New York congresswoman is seen as a potential 2028 presidential contender. This month, she rejoined DSA as the group gains traction following several Democratic primary wins, which included victories over some incumbents.

Previously, Ocasio-Cortez joined DSA in 2018 with a one-year membership. Although her formal membership lapsed after that year, Ocasio-Cortez remained aligned with DSA. The organization continued to view her as a member. Democratic Socialists of America confirms Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is a member in good standing of our organization, having recently rejoined in August 2026, said DSA in a statement shared with City & State New York. The lapse was discovered after Ocasio-Cortez described herself as a member of its New York City chapter but not of the national organization. This prompted DSA leaders to review her membership status. Membership renewals once required manual renewal each year but have since switched to automatic renewals.

Some observers question the timing of Ocasio-Cortez’s renewal, suggesting it coincides strategically with the DSA’s growing popularity and her potential presidential aspirations. One X user expressed skepticism, commenting on the convenience of her renewal amid the DSA’s increased organizing power and her presidential contemplation.

Others used the renewal to jest about the congresswoman. In communist circles of the 50s, the joke was that FBI agents could be identified by their timely membership dues payments, author Byrne Hobart noted. Economist Wojtek Kopczuk humorously criticized a DSA member paying rent.

The Washington Post reported earlier in the month that DSA is politically divided over endorsing candidates in the 2028 presidential race. Ocasio-Cortez finds herself at the center of this debate.

As the situation unfolds, Ocasio-Cortez’s office did not provide comments when contacted by Fox News Digital.