AOC Faces Backlash for Immigration Forum and Comments on GOP

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) is facing criticism after defending an online “know-your-rights” forum where she offered legal advice to undocumented immigrants. In a February 28, 2025 NPR interview, AOC said she aimed to inform all her constituents about constitutional protections, specifically against unlawful search and seizure. Critics, including Trump’s former Border Czar Tom Homan, argued that her guidance may violate federal law, namely 8 U.S.C. § 1324, which prohibits encouraging illegal immigration. AOC responded that her advice was meant for all constituents, prompting backlash on X, with users questioning the legality and implications of her statements. The controversy also reignited debates about voter eligibility and identity in districts with high immigrant populations. During the same interview, AOC characterized the Republican Party as targeting the working class while favoring the wealthy, and described Democrats as moving through stages of grief following Trump’s re-election.