May 11, 2019

Watch Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Make Congressional History

The first-term representative takes her record-breaking turn in the Speaker’s chair.

Nancy Kaszerman/ZUMA

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On Friday afternoon, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) made history once again by becoming the youngest woman to ever preside over the House of Representatives.

In front of a mostly empty chamber just before the weekend, the 29 year old congresswoman who represents portions of Queens and the Bronx took her first routine shift running debate as a member of the majority party. She kept order for about an hour, recognizing colleagues for a string of minor speeches before formally gaveling the week’s session to a close. 

According to Reuters, who spoke with the representative following her stint filling in for Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), Ocasio-Cortez enjoyed the experience, though the famously Instagram savvy politician acknowledged one regret: “It’s exciting. It’s certainly a view. I wish we could, I wish we were allowed to take photos.”

 

 

 

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We didn't know what to expect when we told you we needed to raise $400,000 before our fiscal year closed on June 30, and we're thrilled to report that our incredible community of readers contributed some $415,000 to help us keep charging as hard as we can during this crazy year.

You just sent an incredible message: that quality journalism doesn't have to answer to advertisers, billionaires, or hedge funds; that newsrooms can eke out an existence thanks primarily to the generosity of its readers. That's so powerful. Especially during what's been called a "media extinction event" when those looking to make a profit from the news pull back, the Mother Jones community steps in.

The months and years ahead won't be easy. Far from it. But there's no one we'd rather face the big challenges with than you, our committed and passionate readers, and our team of fearless reporters who show up every day.

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