During the Democratic National Convention, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez sparked discussion with a noticeable change in accent during her speech.
This shift occurred as she compared Donald Trump with Kamala Harris, specifically on their views of patriotism and support for working people. The audience noticed when she emphasized the phrase “on our way of life” with a distinct accent and cadence.
Reaction to AOC’s Speech Delivery
Social media reactions were immediate, with some users mocking the accent change. Discussions focused on whether the accent was intentional or spontaneous.
A social media user highlighted the moment by asking, “What accent is AOC using here?” reflecting a broader curiosity and skepticism about the authenticity of her speech.
Widespread Mockery
Many criticised her accent as “cringe” and slammed her for allegedly using a fake accent.
One person posted a clip of AOC’s speech with the comment: “AOC speech was cring. The fake accent was way too much for me.”
A Phony Accent?
X users bombarded Ocasio-Cortez with speculation that she was putting on a fake accent.
One user posted: “Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez developed a new phony accent in the middle of delivering her very painful speech.”
Historical Context of AOC’s Speech Patterns
This incident at the DNC was not the first time Ocasio-Cortez faced scrutiny over her speech. She has previously been accused of affecting her voice during public appearances.
Notably, in 2019, she was criticized for using a Southern drawl while speaking at Al Sharpton’s civil rights organization, where she famously said, “I’m proud to be a bartender. Ain’t nothing wrong with that.”
AOC Responds to Criticism
Addressing the recurrent commentary on her speech, Ocasio-Cortez defended herself on X, formerly Twitter.
She said, “Folks talking about my voice can step right off. Any kid who grew up in a distinct linguistic culture & had to learn to navigate class enviros at school/work knows what’s up. My Spanish is the same way.”
Emphasizing Her Bronx Roots
In her defense, Ocasio-Cortez highlighted her upbringing in the Bronx and her authenticity when she is “fired up” or at home.
She expressed how personal and hurtful the criticisms can be: “It is so hurtful to see how every aspect of my life is weaponized against me, yet somehow asserted as false at the same time.”
Interlinked Cultures
People could relate to Ocasio-Cortez’s experience of coming from a mixed linguistic background on social media.
One person commented on her post: “I grew up doing this too – as a Chicano in SoCal. Our cultures are linked even if many of us don’t recognize it. We could point to music, art, fashion, low-rider cars, civil rights, and more. Language is just one of the many ways we have influenced each other.”
Reclaiming Her Background
In her DNC speech, Ocasio-Cortez also addressed criticisms suggesting she return to bartending.
She confidently stated her willingness to return to bartending, “Let me tell you, I’m happy to any day of the week because there is nothing wrong with working for a living.”
Backup from Her Supporters
Ocasio-Cortez was not alone in defending herself. Her supporters came to support her online.
One user posted: “I swear, every time y’all attack @AOC with this nonsense, it backfires spectacularly. She’s saying there’s just as much pride + honor in the labor of working class folks. Yet you project racist bullshit on her voice? Embarrassing.
Denouncing Donald Trump
Ocasio-Cortez used her platform at the DNC to criticize Donald Trump, labeling him a “two-bit union buster” who prioritizes his financial interests over the country’s well-being.
She argued that Trump would sell the country for minimal personal profit, encapsulating her disdain with, “Donald Trump would sell this country for $1 if it meant lining his own pockets and greasing the palms of his Wall Street friends.”
Compared to a Dictator
Conservative commentator Megyn Kelly had more to discuss about AOC’s DNC speech than her accent.
Kelly compared Representative Ocasio-Cortez to Mussolini during her podcast, The Megyn Kelly Show.
“Not Spanish at All”
While Ocasio-Cortez’s DNC speech was met with a standing ovation, Kelly was not so impressed.
Kelly said that Ocasio-Cortez was a cross between Hilaria Baldwin, who Kelly said “isn’t Spanish at all,” and “this guy – you may remember him from World War Two as the leader of Italy.” She then played footage of Mussolini giving a dramatic speech.
Aggressive Style
Kelly slammed Ocasio-Cortez’s rhetoric during her speech.
Kelly started shouting and banging on the table during the podcast episode and said: “Anyone can get up there and shout at you, she can shout at you, it doesn’t make you a good public speaker. It was like an assault, don’t you feel assaulted by what I just did. That’s how I felt, listening to her.”
“Congressional Kardashian”
Kelly took to X to blast Ocasio-Cortez.
She said in reference to her DNC speech: “All AOC wants is to be a star. Congressional Kardashian.”
Obama 2004
Kelly accused the congresswoman of trying to imitate Barack Obama’s 2004 speech.
Kelly said: “That’s what AOC was going for. That’s what they all go for. They fail. There’s only one Barack Obama, there will never be another Barack Obama. I’m sorry, find your own style.”
Audience Support
During her speech, the support for Ocasio-Cortez was palpable, with the crowd repeatedly chanting “AOC.”
This enthusiastic response underscored her popularity and the resonance of her message among Democratic supporters gathered at the convention.
Racism and Misogyny
Online commentators have noted that it is hard to separate criticism about her accent from racism and misogyny.
Publications like Distractify pointed out that code-switching in communities of color is very common.
A Political Force
Ocasio-Cortez has faced criticism about her speaking style for years. Not only that, but she has also been criticized for her potency as a political force.
Distractify’s Joseph Allen said that criticisms of AOC should have substantive reasons behind them rather than accusations of a fake accent.
A Shift in Presentation
Compared to previous years, Ocasio-Cortez’s 2024 DNC speech showed a more establishment-aligned tone.
This was a significant change from her typically more progressive, confrontational style, suggesting a strategic alignment with broader Democratic Party goals during this key event.
Increased Visibility and Influence
The 2024 DNC marked a notable increase in Ocasio-Cortez’s visibility within the party, granting her a prime speaking slot on the first night, a stark contrast to the brief virtual appearance allocated to her in 2020.
This change highlights her growing influence and the party’s recognition of her as a key voice.
Trailblazing Politician
Ocasio-Cortez has been a potent political presence since she was elected to represent parts of the Bronx and Queens in Congress.
She was the youngest woman to serve in Congress since she was elected in 2019.
Reflecting on Party Dynamics
Her speech and the platform given to her at the DNC reflect ongoing dynamics within the Democratic Party as they prepare for upcoming elections.
Ocasio-Cortez’s prominence at the event signifies an acknowledgment of her role and potential impact on the party’s future and electoral strategies.
Looking Toward the Future
As the Democratic Party continues to navigate its path forward, the role figures like Ocasio-Cortez will play becomes increasingly significant.
Her ability to connect with and mobilize voters, as demonstrated by the reactions at the DNC, will be crucial as the party faces future electoral challenges.
