Published in
Oct 29, 2020
Why is Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez so hated? Because society perceives beauty in “an ‘unruly body,’ such as a non-white person’s body” as an existential threat, Tressie McMillan Cottom argues. Beauty is often seen as women’s single source of power, and AOC’s critics can’t control it.
The congresswoman is the bogeywoman of the right, constantly targeted by President Trump and the GOP. The attacks following her Vanity Fair cover are a continuation of that—not that she cares much. “Republicans are Very Mad (again) about my appearance. This time they’re mad that I look good in borrowed clothes (again),” she tweeted. “Listen, if Republicans want pointers on looking your best, I’m happy to share. Tip #1: Drink water and don’t be racist.”
