The New York Post ran a story about how New York Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) was “caught” flying American Airlines first class. I wanted to address the topic of flying first class and the perception of “luxury” more broadly, and share my take.
In this post:
AOC flies first class from Austin to New York
It’s being reported how AOC flew American Airlines first class from Austin to New York last Sunday. Specifically, she was on AA1405, which was operated by a Boeing 737-800. As you’d expect, the story is highly sensationalized:
“Socialist Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez ditched the commoners in coach and cozied up to elites in first class on an American Airlines flight, avoiding the left wing altogether for a spacious seat closer to the cockpit after a weekend of stumping for comrades in the Lone Star state, an eyewitness told The Post.”
A “tipster” notes that most people didn’t realize she was there, as she wore a “large mask” that “covered half her face” (which, I’m pretty sure is how you’re supposed to wear your mask?). As the eyewitness explains:
“I don’t sense anyone in first class knew she was there or someone of her celebrity was there. She was also pretty incognito.”
The story talks about how AOC is enjoying “the finer things in life” now. An AOC spokesperson just stated that “no government funds were used on this flight.”
My take on AOC flying American Airlines first class
Let me say upfront that I’m pretty moderate politically, and I’m not an AOC superfan, or anything (which I’m mentioning just to point out that I’m not being an apologist on her behalf). With that out of the way, I think it’s interesting to discuss whether the concept of someone flying first class domestically is even a “class” issue.
I can see how some might argue that the optics here aren’t good, that a person “of the people” might not want to sit on the other side of the “curtain” on principle, just to not be seen there. Okay, I’m not going to argue that point, because that just comes down to perception.
Optics aside, I think it’s also important to be practical sometimes, which is why I want to address this topic. There’s absolutely nothing about domestic first class that’s lavish or luxurious. That food that she’ll be enjoying? Well, here’s what American Airlines is serving in first class… hardly enjoying “the finer things in life.”
Next, we don’t know how her first class ticket was paid for:
- Maybe miles were redeemed?
- Maybe she has status with American AAdvantage and received a complimentary upgrade?
- Maybe she purchased a first class ticket, which is in many cases not that unreasonably priced?
- Maybe her ticket was purchased for her since she was campaigning for politicians in Texas, in which case she may have had no say over what kind of a ticket was purchased anyway?
And speaking of politicians campaigning, shouldn’t a much bigger issue be that politicians on both sides fly private jets around to campaign rallies, which has a much worse environmental impact than someone flying in a domestic first class seat?
A first class ticket might cost an extra $200 for a flight like this, and you’ll sit in that seat for four hours (factoring in boarding time). I’ve often written about my valuation of domestic first class, and I think it’s worth about an extra $50 per hour, so the math checks out there. That also assumes you’re not checking bags, which would be free in first class but not in economy.
Lastly, the reality is that I think first class can be justified purely in terms of the ability to be productive. Most people can’t reasonably work in a tight economy seat. You can’t even open your laptop screen in many cases if the person in front of you reclines. Paying a premium of $50 per hour to sit in a seat where you can have the space to work is in many cases just being smart.
Like I said, I get some people might not think the optics are great. But to outright criticize someone for being in a seat with a bit more room seems a bit much. American Airlines first class is hardly that different than Sprit Airlines’ “Big Front Seat.”
I’ve sat next to Grace Mugabe in Singapore Airlines first class as she was traveling with her entourage shoveling down caviar and champagne while people in her country are starving. That’s a major problem, and disgusts me. But AOC “enjoying” a turkey sandwich on a domestic first class flight is hardly worth the same level of ire, in my opinion. She’s not living a lavish lifestyle because she flew American first class, I can tell you that.
Bottom line
A big deal is being made of New York Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez flying American Airlines first class on a domestic flight.
There’s simply nothing luxurious about flying first class within the United States, but rather it’s just about having a bit more space, which in many cases is the difference between being able to stay productive and not. Furthermore, we don’t know how this ticket was even paid for — someone else could have paid for the ticket, or she could have received a complimentary upgrade.
What’s your take on the “luxury” of domestic first class? Everyone is welcome to sound off regardless of their political beliefs, but please be respectful…
I think they should all fly first class! That would eliminate a lot of carbon that is being released into the atmosphere. Not to mention the savings the taxpayer will have. It gets pretty expensive when everyone has their private jet. Not to mention the carbon they are releasing.
The article is relevant because this is how socialism actually plays out. AOC has described herself as a democratic socialist and socialism essentially sacrifices the preferences and desires of the individual in favor of those of the community. Once in place however, we find that socialist regimes quickly evolve into systems where those in power enjoy significant benefits over the vast majority of those without. A socialist leader flying first class while the commoners are...
The article is relevant because this is how socialism actually plays out. AOC has described herself as a democratic socialist and socialism essentially sacrifices the preferences and desires of the individual in favor of those of the community. Once in place however, we find that socialist regimes quickly evolve into systems where those in power enjoy significant benefits over the vast majority of those without. A socialist leader flying first class while the commoners are stuck in coach is far to cliche' to ignore.
Said well and to the point!
Our tax money at work on ‘top of the line’ everything including flying 1$t. class.
First Class is more expensive with all its luxurie$$.
Our tax money at work……..but U.S. Vets STILL in tent$$.
Somehow I think Cancun Cruz was not in coach.
"Let me say upfront that I’m pretty moderate politically"
A moderate in metro Miami in a subgroup know to be heavily democrat. You might believe that you are a moderate but that is largely based upon the people you associate with. Your moderate politics would be considered left wing in Central Florida or center right in Scandinavia.
If she paid for it, who cares?
So sick of the endless drama bahama mongers.
It's all about PERCEPTION and optics.
The voting public REALLY does NOT like for an elected official to be seated in First.
Right or wrong, taxpayers BELIEVE they are the ones paying for it!
OR, that the Member may be receiving an upgrade becasie of their title.
Tell that to 45. Gold plated thrones, etc. Come on. Plenty of poor people voted for someone that flaunted perceived wealth.
He is well known to have had money first and was not pretending to be the voice of the poor. Since day one, her optics have been that of a major player who is out of touch with the poor. She drives a Tesla, clubs in Miami, etc. Yet those in her district will continue to vote for her so one can only assume they really do not care so why should anyone else.
Regardless of one’s political view, its hard not to immediately recall just a few weeks ago, this same congressperson decrying that their student loans should be forgiven (despite an annual salary of $174k). Even if its only a $200 luxury, seems like one should put that towards their debts first. Sure, she can spend her dollars how she wants, but you also have to expect the criticism given how vocal she’s been on the topic.
@ Dude26
Very confused you are, and especially prone to conflate anything left of tRump / MAGA with communism.
Here in Australia (with a right of centre national government) we suffer heinous communism in the form of a universal health care system called Medicare. This is very nasty stuff indeed because it lets poor people visit the doctor and go to hospital when they need to. Let them suffer and die. It's their fault...
@ Dude26
Very confused you are, and especially prone to conflate anything left of tRump / MAGA with communism.
Here in Australia (with a right of centre national government) we suffer heinous communism in the form of a universal health care system called Medicare. This is very nasty stuff indeed because it lets poor people visit the doctor and go to hospital when they need to. Let them suffer and die. It's their fault they have no cash to pay for their meds, right?
We also have a system of government paid / student loan paid tertiary education. This is disgusting because it enables smart kids from families with little cash to go to college, and leads to trans-generational elevation in wealth. Let them stay uneducated, we don't need some smart butts from the slum suburbs invading our hallowed halls of universities where daddy and mummy went to college before us, do we?
In our street we have government housing interlaced with proud home owners. This is a vile attempt to offer Indigenous families a chance to get their kids to the local school and integrate with society, thereby undermining the righteous prejudice of those who harbor instant perceptions of the criminal element. Let them fester in bush camps, right on, yeah?
We walk down the street without packing a semi automatic weapon, which is just wrong, it denies folk the opportunity to shoot people up in a mass killing spree, we need that freedom, it's constitutional, right?
We have (normally) a significant influx of migrants to propel economic growth and stimulate the housing market, which is a conspiracy to dilute western culture, right?
Oh and we have the worst offender that communism can muster - frequent flyer schemes that enable everyday folk, with average incomes, who may not even fly, the opportunity to fly in premium cabins on aircraft, which is clearly the sole provenance for those rich folk who can afford and appreciate true luxury and vote for the politically and morally corrupt trash of the Republican Party, right on.
Just in case, the humour and sarcasm is beyond you and you can't get the point - you don't have a clue what you're talking about.
That's Australia - others from countries with "democratic socialist" regimens "lefter" than Australia can add two their fact-based analysis and their lived experience.
MAGBA - Make America Great Britain Again !!!
I don't understand your love for rating first class by the meal that is served. It is airplane food. Your are paying some extra for the space, the complimentary checked luggage, and the priority conveniences.
I don't even know why they serve a meal on a 1200 miles flight.
Why didn’t AOC give up her first class seat with dinner and alcoholic beverages to a less fortunate person sitting in a middle seat in the main cabin ?
If I sat next to AOC I would have deplaned and told the Captain I didn’t feel comfortable flying next to her.
Bottom line…another New York Post hit job. Who really cares how AOC gets from place to place except the New York Post? That paper isn’t suitable to wrap fish in.
Why not, if I might ask? Think she has cooties? Afraid she would pick your pocket? Steal your Timex?
Thank you for this story. Your points are quite valid. There is no reason not to spend the money for first or business class if you have it.
It's lousy optics to be sure. What I will say is that I remember being on the same Southwest flight as my congressman more than one and he obviously wasn't flying first class. So, she's not playing the role as "woman of the people" to be sure. Then again, Bolsheviks never really pretended to be that once in power. It's more like: "I deserve it". True, I don't know her. But based on accounts of...
It's lousy optics to be sure. What I will say is that I remember being on the same Southwest flight as my congressman more than one and he obviously wasn't flying first class. So, she's not playing the role as "woman of the people" to be sure. Then again, Bolsheviks never really pretended to be that once in power. It's more like: "I deserve it". True, I don't know her. But based on accounts of her hijinks, she does give the impression of being a diva who is happy to milk her position for all it's worth.
'Lousy optics for sure" because of what???!!!
Hello ! Wake up and smell the coffee! It is utterly silly to take too seriously political labels like 'socialist', especially in America. This is not the USSR!
Just because someone is member of congress does not mean that they cannot use their own money or other non-taxpayer funds to fly in premium cabins!
You seem like a great person to be around. NOT.
It seems that so many people on here are constantly attacking Lucky. Some of the comments make me wonder why do you even follow this site? It's clear that outside of the site you and Lucky would not be friends. Move on or start your own site.
This reminds me of the bag of rice in China. Its tumbling. The irrelevance of the event.
Certainly any comparision moderate Ben with AOC is laughable. No fan of either, however, the excess of conspicuous consumption in this thread vs. the more probable more measured lifestyle of AOC is hilarious
Not sure what this article really has to do with travel. I will say AOC's congressional district borders the poorest congressional district in the entire country. She proclaims herself a socialist but shops at Wholefoods and drives a tesla and hobnobs with celebs, jets off to miami for brunches and wears expensive clothing. Meanwhile some of her constituents live in poverty. She is a hypocrite. She spends most of her time flying around the country...
Not sure what this article really has to do with travel. I will say AOC's congressional district borders the poorest congressional district in the entire country. She proclaims herself a socialist but shops at Wholefoods and drives a tesla and hobnobs with celebs, jets off to miami for brunches and wears expensive clothing. Meanwhile some of her constituents live in poverty. She is a hypocrite. She spends most of her time flying around the country and doing talk shows instead of working for her constituents. She has been ranked as one of the LEAST effective members of congress. She is basically a con artist. It is sad that people fall for her spiel.
Well, it's a story about someone traveling, so I would say that "has to do with travel."
Your comment, on the other hand, has nothing to do with travel, so why are you posting it on a travel blog?
You sure seem to know an awful lot about her. How do you know her clothes are expensive, she shops at Whole Foods and drives a Telsa? Are you following her?
Con artist? Let’s see, what politician comes to mind when you use the term “con artist”? Need a hint?
I know you probably won’t post this, but then you shouldn’t have posted the post by the guy who would rather deplane than sit next to her.
So many comments way to go OMAT
Also good for her flying first class
She can do whatever she wants to do
All in all honestly quit mocking Ben for posting this blog post about AOC flying AA FC
She flying first class and that’s what this blog is all about
Seriously you people need to grow up
Not going to get into the merits of this story, but this reminded of me a related but somewhat different experience I had several years ago flying British Airways from IAD to LHR. It was on the heels of the 2016 Nuclear Security Summit and I had been booked in business, but was upgraded to first. Happened to check to see who was in my business class seat and it was an aide to UK...
Not going to get into the merits of this story, but this reminded of me a related but somewhat different experience I had several years ago flying British Airways from IAD to LHR. It was on the heels of the 2016 Nuclear Security Summit and I had been booked in business, but was upgraded to first. Happened to check to see who was in my business class seat and it was an aide to UK Prime Minister David Cameron who was also in business. Meanwhile in first with me were the Prime Ministers of Singapore and Thailand. I'm assuming Cameron downgraded for optics - I later read that he was known to fly Ryanair within Europe on personal trips so this seemed on brand (no, I'm not saying Ryanair compares to BA business class).
This is clickbait. The only detail that's relevant is the one you left out - WAS SHE TRAVELING ON GOVERNMENT BUSINESS?
If the government's not paying for it, it's nobody else's business. Period.
It might not be anyone’s business, but its fair game for discussion given that:
A) she has chosen to be a public figure, and
B) she claims she can’t afford her student loans on a congressional salary of $174k
The NYPost has not mastered the art of nuance in understanding, well, anything ever. This is as click-baity here as it was in the NYPost.
When someone supposedly “apolitical” posts something political, there is always a preface of “I’m a moderate” or “while I don’t agree with his/her policies”.
Textbook triangulation to make your argument sound palatable from both sides.
So to reply to Nate Nate previously, I
wouldn’t hold my breath to hear just exactly which of her progressive policies are so abhorrent to Ben.
So now your blog is going political? How does this affect my points and miles or credit card strategy? -- It doesn't!
Everyone dissing Lucky can just piss off...... His article is in line with a valid travel topic, with his views and his right!!
While I think she is among the most worthless, destructive, ignorant and self serving pieces of political flotsam in a generation, as long as she didn't spend my tax dollars she can fly however and wherever she likes including on the wing. Regardless of your political leanings, and I am a moderate slightly right of center born in the USA frequent flier, this wasn't much of a story and certainly not worth the space you gave it.
My biggest beef (or one of them) with AOC is that she claims that her $170,000 yearly salary isn't enough to pay her $17,000 student loan and expects the rest of us to pay for it. My Co-worker makes $20 an hour and in 8 months saved up almost enough to pay his $17,000 loan.
She claims poverty but vacations often. IHMO I think she needs to re-think priorities,
She also votes for an increased minimum wage and better rights and pay for your co-worker. I don't think she should live a life of poverty if she wants to fight for freeing people from poverty.
I think your math needs help. At $20 an hour, $160 a day, $800 a week X 32 weeks in the eight months you claimed = $25,600. Take out 15% for state, federal, local taxes, that leaves $21,760, minus $17,000 for the loan, that leaves $4,760 to live off of for eight months. That means that your co-worker lives off of $19.83 a day. I think you are wrong. Actually, I think you made this up.
@Chris - You forget the loan interest over the 8 months!
1. AOC is an ass.
2. If the gov't isn't paying, who cares if she flies first class. It is her dime.
Live and Let Live.
No more Ben - you’re better than this - stick to, what you’re good at!!!
Sorry you feel that way, @Dude26; it must be very exhausting living on the edge with all that anger bottled up!
I would really, really like you to take it somewhere else though, as your entire rant is totally inappropriate for this blog.
@glenn t - It's not an angry rant (sorry it came off that way?). I was just providing an explanation according to how I view things, that's it. Nothing "angry" about it as far as I was concerned at least...
I agree with you Dude26, I came from Nicaragua at the age of 10 yo in the late 80s, the Sandinistas guided by Cuba’s Castro came up with the idea of “helping” the poor by stealing, incarcerating, killing the “rich” and any opposition and taking all of their possessions. The only rich left were the ones close to the regime who enjoyed lavish lifestyles while the poor struggled. The same happened in Venezuela and other...
I agree with you Dude26, I came from Nicaragua at the age of 10 yo in the late 80s, the Sandinistas guided by Cuba’s Castro came up with the idea of “helping” the poor by stealing, incarcerating, killing the “rich” and any opposition and taking all of their possessions. The only rich left were the ones close to the regime who enjoyed lavish lifestyles while the poor struggled. The same happened in Venezuela and other countries in South America. Bernie, AOC and a bunch of others embrace these “socialist” communist ideas hypocritically doing the opposite of what they preach. Why not enjoy the plane ride with the people u care so much about?
When you read "Socialist rep....", "stumping for a comrade", cozying up to first class elites, blah, blah, blah, you get the drift about what this hack reporter is on about.
I agree 100% with Ben's take on the reality of AA's First Class seat, and agree with AOCs sensible decision to travel this way, for all the reasons put forward.
The only thing that horrified me was the gruesome picture of the meat-like 'sandwich' AA may have served up in F !
If she or a private entity is paying her way then I don't care. If she is on official business and on the taxpayer's dime then it is a problem because of the appearance of impropriety.
What, "straight up communism"???? Nothing of the kind, not even close! Are you *actually* Donald Trump, or just as good a BSer?
She shouldn’t be flying first class. It doesn’t matter than the level of service isn’t much higher than coach (if so, this is an even stronger reason not for her to fly first class). None of our politicians should fly first class when on the tax payer’s dime.
Did you read this though? She wasn't flying on the taxpayer's dime. She was in Texas for a campaign event and these things are funded privately (by PACs, the campaign, or the party). If she were traveling on the taxpayer's dime I'd agree, but then again she wouldn't be able to do that because the government has strict rules on that.
Also I imagine she has status of some sort given that she must routinely...
Did you read this though? She wasn't flying on the taxpayer's dime. She was in Texas for a campaign event and these things are funded privately (by PACs, the campaign, or the party). If she were traveling on the taxpayer's dime I'd agree, but then again she wouldn't be able to do that because the government has strict rules on that.
Also I imagine she has status of some sort given that she must routinely travel between her district in NY and DC. So she easily could have been upgraded.
I agree she is left of the left do as I say not a I do.. remember Miami and the big parties with no mask and hugging everyone.... And the trash hate talk of Florida and Governor De Santis by all on the left !!!
Article was right on point. As an European I have some difficulty to understand the hard divided tones and harsh comments I see written about Ben's article. The attitudes and languge used by some of the writers is counterproductive. Many of the commentators obviously hold high positions in the society, but we have to be grateful that they are not negotiating the peace on the Ukrainian border.
It's not "communism" it's basically what most Western European and Scandinavian countries have. Seems to have been working just fine for them...
Well, for one - those countries have small populations, and their societies are (or at least have been until recent years) very socially cohesive. Shared values overall (even when having political differences).
This is not the US. The US is has a massive population, but the tax base is shrinking, yet the communists like AOC (pretending to be just a dem socialist) would have you believe that the tax base can shrink further, the...
Well, for one - those countries have small populations, and their societies are (or at least have been until recent years) very socially cohesive. Shared values overall (even when having political differences).
This is not the US. The US is has a massive population, but the tax base is shrinking, yet the communists like AOC (pretending to be just a dem socialist) would have you believe that the tax base can shrink further, the US can (and should of course!) let anyone who wants to in the country, and magically everyone will have more assests, and everyone will be in 100% solidarity with their fellow citizens (including millions of new, imported citizens) - well, no. That's not going to happen. Just totally divorced from reality.
Most of Europe pays for everything. AOC tries to say only the rich will pay. Intellectual dishonesty.
I ahve to say for you wanting "Status" readers, you website makes it hard to call out liars and haters
And your point is.........?
this guy is wrong He's misrepresenting AOC positions Ben, why can't I report him????
Hmm, here's a thought - how about stating what I'm supposedly misrepresenting? (I'm not - I actually read her polices, and better yet, I heard her talk about them enough times).
But, your knee-jerk reaction is to hysterically cry "why can't I reporttttt him???????". This is what the radical left has become now. Again, since you have no ideas or policies that you know - actually work - this is all you have left.
If you dont agree with someone doesnt mean they dont have a right to speak. You are a perfect example of typical leftist
I don't know. Why can't you report him? the button is right there...
As an international reader of OMAAT based in Australia, I have to say "who cares"? This type of article is click bait. A new low
Piss off mate, and don't read in the future!! :-o
Since you start to write about politicians and their flying habits:
let's see some stories about:
The former guy and his broken 757
Ryan Zinke and his flights.
Tom Price and his luxury flights.
A shameful & stupid post. Good lord, Ben…
Add Ms. Pelosi's coast to coast weekly flights on government planes.
With such a tasty clickbait article, where's the shill for the Venture X card?
Ben, I've watched your journey, I appreciate your success, I love that you have Ford, and I wish the best with your faamily. Hopefully soon your journey will move you on to be a Progressive, Fighting for everyone for equality, justice, and liberty for all.
As to AOC. 1st No Government funds were used! Productivity and security are two dominate factors! Democractic socialism is really misunderstood by your readers!
A progressive, inclusive, fair regulated...
Ben, I've watched your journey, I appreciate your success, I love that you have Ford, and I wish the best with your faamily. Hopefully soon your journey will move you on to be a Progressive, Fighting for everyone for equality, justice, and liberty for all.
As to AOC. 1st No Government funds were used! Productivity and security are two dominate factors! Democractic socialism is really misunderstood by your readers!
A progressive, inclusive, fair regulated capitalism is the best defence from the 'fear' of 'socialism' AOC is working to do this
Haters gona Hate!
Now back to the trip reports and travel hacks -
I'm sure some Government funds were used for part of this esp if she was campaigning for her liberal buds in Texas and then there is security..?? I am sure there was some paid for my the Government
With Respect, there are many progressive intellectuals... AOC just isn't one. She's an amazingly well-spoken woman that got a college degree that prepared her for nothing more than being a bartender with a lot of debt and then uses that experience to portray economic benefit to the rest of us upon little else but the experience of a bartender.
She's the leftist equivalent of Donald Trump: Throws red meat to the masses but zero...
With Respect, there are many progressive intellectuals... AOC just isn't one. She's an amazingly well-spoken woman that got a college degree that prepared her for nothing more than being a bartender with a lot of debt and then uses that experience to portray economic benefit to the rest of us upon little else but the experience of a bartender.
She's the leftist equivalent of Donald Trump: Throws red meat to the masses but zero substance behind any policy and actually has no policy aside from rhetoric.
There are amazing left-leaning economists and thinkers that have incredible ideas about economic benefit within the confines of capitalism, she just isn't one. She's a populist reactionary that doesn't care about facts or data, but relies upon her own experience with a bunch of asshole bankers that didn't tip her well in Manhattan.
She's a hypocritical liberal socialist clown but....this is a non-story. She will be rich in another couple of years in congress like most politicians (now that is a story).
I'm sure some Government funds were used for part of this esp if she was campaigning for her liberal buds in Texas and then there is security..?? I am sure there was some paid for my the Government
I have to agree with other comments here, this is definitely a non story and a low point for the blog.
It also baffles me that you completely missed the point in the Grace Mugabe story. The point was that state funds were (allegedly?) used for her travel, not that she decided to spend her own money on luxery travel. It is frankly no one's business if a private person eve. from a poor company...
I have to agree with other comments here, this is definitely a non story and a low point for the blog.
It also baffles me that you completely missed the point in the Grace Mugabe story. The point was that state funds were (allegedly?) used for her travel, not that she decided to spend her own money on luxery travel. It is frankly no one's business if a private person eve. from a poor company chooses to fly in First if they have the means, as long as those means were fairly acquired. I know it's a side jab in this story but wtf.
BS
Well when most of Grace Mugabe's money has been stolen from the poor and starving people in her country through her husband's corrupt regime, its a problem regardless of whether it's technically "her" money or the government's.
If I were her I would fly private. The constant threats she receives must be ridiculous. I could see first-class being safer than economy, since you have people paying a very slight premium on domestic travel or have status that could be recinded for any funny business making it “more exclusive.”
Eating what would really be groundbreaking would be if Ben would fly overseas to Asia or even to Europe in economy not premium or whatever they call it the back of the plane Ben I am challenging you to do this this year you accept my challenge? I have flown dozens of times economy both to Europe and Asia and I am no worse for the wear
Has anyone verified if she made prior public statements dismissing / degrading first class travel? I saw a place that mentioned she did but haven’t verified.
Bernie was pictured in first a couple years ago again haven’t verified he made statements against first class travel.
If she hasn’t made dismissive statements about the act of being in first class nothing to see here. If she has, call it out.
Am I mistaken? But don't some Airlines upgrade politicians and VIPs? AOC may not be VIP to some depending on their political stance, but I wouldn't be surprised if she also got upgraded.
And even if she didn't, as you said:
- She could've used miles, and my understanding is even college students on little income can sometimes get enough miles to fly first (in particular in the US)
- If she's using her own money...why is it anybody's business
Well she says she’s a socialist and according to doctrine she is not to have more money than anyone else. She should be taking public transportation and donating her excess wealth to the poor. Also she is using capitalist devices ie iphone!! And driving a car made via capitalism and a Republican owner lmao she is so fake!!!
right on!!!
1) That’s not what socialism means… especially Democratic socialism, like what much of Europe has and what Bernie and AOC advocate (they want fair markets, not markets dominated by oligarchs and monopolists, which you should be for as well)
2) Almost all of the basic science and research that made the iPhone and Pepsi at like electric cars possible were funded by government grants (aka “socialism”?). The american auto industry was bailed out by the...
1) That’s not what socialism means… especially Democratic socialism, like what much of Europe has and what Bernie and AOC advocate (they want fair markets, not markets dominated by oligarchs and monopolists, which you should be for as well)
2) Almost all of the basic science and research that made the iPhone and Pepsi at like electric cars possible were funded by government grants (aka “socialism”?). The american auto industry was bailed out by the government in 2008-2009 (“socialism” again?).
3) Why does someone who represents the working class have to live in poverty? Should teachers who work in low-income schools also live in poverty themselves? Is that why you’re ok with all the Republican politicians who represent the wealthy stealing our tax money and doing favors for their donors getting paid to screw all of us, because they only purport to care about money so they get a pass? If not, are you checking if your Republican politicians/officials are flying first class or not? No? Why not?
If she paid out of her own pocket I don't really care. But...if she paid big dollars out of her own pocket maybe she could have put it against her student loans. Never mind on that student loan part - she hopes to successfully push to get us to write that off.
Regarding forgiving student loan debt, why do so many not use a rational framework to evaluate the policy? If forgiving student loan debt generates multiples of economic growth per dollar it costs, and results in a more dynamic business environment (more demand, more entrepreneurship) and more healthy/stable citizenry (our neighbors and communities) due to more economic freedom and better mental health from less financial stress, why shouldn’t we consider it?
This is speaking as...
Regarding forgiving student loan debt, why do so many not use a rational framework to evaluate the policy? If forgiving student loan debt generates multiples of economic growth per dollar it costs, and results in a more dynamic business environment (more demand, more entrepreneurship) and more healthy/stable citizenry (our neighbors and communities) due to more economic freedom and better mental health from less financial stress, why shouldn’t we consider it?
This is speaking as someone who finished paying off my loans, btw. It doesn’t matter than I paid back my loans in this evaluation because what matters is the future.
Well I thought once she said she cant afford an apartment in DC and was pushing for green deal which would ban all the planes. I guess she has educated herself that it wont be possible bcoz she will want to fly. Same goes to John Kerry who would fly in business jet to go to europe to talk about climate change. Hypocrites !!
Agree Hypocrites....
After all the death threats she receives, and also flying from goddamn red state texas, maybe just maybe you would think first class is for safety?
I've been on Lucky's side as far as political articles every other time because normally they actually are related to travel in some way. This is basically just a way to dunk on her politics and shame AA on the side. New low indeed, but hopefully this won't happen again.
Meanwhile after over 700++ nights, Australia finally opened our border about 5 hours ago!
Don’t get him started…. Nobody needs another article about how he disagrees with Australia’s border policies during COVID.
If that is, in fact, true and the objections here are that AOC, the "Socialist", should not have used her own money to fly in a premium cabin, then may the Good Lord save America because the MAGA cult, whose adherents' comments in this space objecting to what is an utterly innocuous and sensible post, may be about to repeat in America what a swastika-symbolized group did...
If that is, in fact, true and the objections here are that AOC, the "Socialist", should not have used her own money to fly in a premium cabin, then may the Good Lord save America because the MAGA cult, whose adherents' comments in this space objecting to what is an utterly innocuous and sensible post, may be about to repeat in America what a swastika-symbolized group did in a western European country circa 1930s.
Contrast AOC flying in first-class on her own dime with public officials in the "former guy's" administration [read: swamp], many of whom have been convicted, using public money for personal perks.
G'day/
Wow, any chance you have to post that sandwich photo…
In writing this post you opened yourself and this site for possible remarks that you would otherwise not like. I too could make one regarding her/her beliefs then flying FC. The problem with socialist is the are fine when it's someone else's money heaven forbid they have to spend their own.
I realize you won't get into this, but when you say you don't agree with many of AOC's policies, I am curious which ones. I'm hoping you know what her policies are, and not just relying on the media's perception of her.
Her top policies on her website (https://www.ocasiocortez.com/issues) are:
MEDICARE FOR ALL: Guarantee healthcare for all people, curb costs, and improve long-term health.
HOUSING AS A HUMAN RIGHT: Protect current occupants, repair public...
I realize you won't get into this, but when you say you don't agree with many of AOC's policies, I am curious which ones. I'm hoping you know what her policies are, and not just relying on the media's perception of her.
Her top policies on her website (https://www.ocasiocortez.com/issues) are:
MEDICARE FOR ALL: Guarantee healthcare for all people, curb costs, and improve long-term health.
HOUSING AS A HUMAN RIGHT: Protect current occupants, repair public housing, and build new affordable housing.
REAL PUBLIC SAFETY: Ending police violence and investing in people, not prisons.
HONOR IN IMMIGRATION: It is past time to make undocumented individuals full members of the country they call their home and abolish ICE.
A JUST RECOVERY FOR PUERTO RICO: Provide real support to Puerto Ricans experiencing economic and environmental crises while respecting their right to define their own future.
ELEVATE PUBLIC EDUCATION: Strengthen our education system and make it affordable to all, so students are prepared for jobs.
By many, I assume you are against at least more than one. Let's assume you are against Medicare for All, as that one I can understand the differing views. And as a travel blogger, I can't imagine you are against a recovery for Puerto Rico. The other ones all seem like human rights (right to housing, education, human dignity and freedom from violence).
It’s easy to post her views from her own website. Those are meant to make her look good, obviously. The problem is not with many of her views, it’s with the implementation of those views.
How will the government execute and handle Medicare for all? (Though Everyone agrees the US healthcare system needs a full overhaul)?
How will she get the zoning and money for more public housing and who will compensate the...
It’s easy to post her views from her own website. Those are meant to make her look good, obviously. The problem is not with many of her views, it’s with the implementation of those views.
How will the government execute and handle Medicare for all? (Though Everyone agrees the US healthcare system needs a full overhaul)?
How will she get the zoning and money for more public housing and who will compensate the owners for tenants who consistently don’t pay and can’t be evicted?
How will she help give a path to citizenship for people in the US illegally, while making sure that people come legally (hopefully more immigrants) instead of illegally in the future?
Her answers to these questions is likely what Ben and others, including myself, do not agree with.
On a personal note, her contempt and hypocrisy make me not like her at all (eg going to Florida to party maskless. At least going to another blue state like California if you’re going to party. Sheesh.)
And over exaggerating to try and make a point or justify a feeling “make me not like her at all”, doesn’t help. Plenty of ways to disagree based on facts.
“Going to Florida to party maskless” = she was eating outdoors with her SO. One big problem with our country is always letting perfect be the enemy of the good, or never trying anything if we can’t agree on the perfect solution. You seem...
And over exaggerating to try and make a point or justify a feeling “make me not like her at all”, doesn’t help. Plenty of ways to disagree based on facts.
“Going to Florida to party maskless” = she was eating outdoors with her SO. One big problem with our country is always letting perfect be the enemy of the good, or never trying anything if we can’t agree on the perfect solution. You seem to agree in principle with many positions (like Medicare For All), if we wait until the perfect solution, we will be waiting until we die.
A new low for this website. I rather have another credit card article than this click bait pointless drivel.
And anyone of you who are outraged at AOC over flying domestic business class but were cool with Ted Cruz jetting off to a Ritz Carlton in Mexico when his constituents were without electricity are absolute hypocrites.
It was somehow a big deal when a Trump cabinet member flew in first class, and that doesn't even factor in the hypocrisy of being a communist like AOC, who is supposed to be a woman of the common people.. It's funny how you libs can take opposing views of the exact same issue depending on who is being targeted. Disingenuous as usual.
Are you comparing when a Trump cabinet member flew first class on the govt's dime (and against govt policy) to AOC buying a first class plane ticket with her own money?
How do you know she paid with her own money? You don't. How do you know the cabinet member didn't get an upgrade? You don't. But your confirmation bias leads you to immediate outrage if a GOP member offends your delicate sensibilities, but look the other way when it's your own.
Besides, "Her" money is also paid either by our taxes or by lobbyists Also, isn't she a big climate change activist? Isn't it a...
How do you know she paid with her own money? You don't. How do you know the cabinet member didn't get an upgrade? You don't. But your confirmation bias leads you to immediate outrage if a GOP member offends your delicate sensibilities, but look the other way when it's your own.
Besides, "Her" money is also paid either by our taxes or by lobbyists Also, isn't she a big climate change activist? Isn't it a climate emergency, with the only solution being communism? I guess the emergency is over. Funny how the loudest CC activists who say poor people shouldn't be flying are themselves the biggest jetsetters. The left is full of disingenuous hypocrites like you and her.
Pure MAGA nonsense. We know because "former guy's" swamp people have been indicted for using public funds, AOC has not been.
Yes, I'm assuming she paid her own money. I don't have any reason to suspect otherwise, but I could be wrong.
There are media reports that a number of Trump cabinet members insisted on flying first class despite govt restrictions. And they were traveling on official business, so we know it was govt paid travel. That can be easily found through a Google search.
"Her" money is her money, just like your money is "your"...
Yes, I'm assuming she paid her own money. I don't have any reason to suspect otherwise, but I could be wrong.
There are media reports that a number of Trump cabinet members insisted on flying first class despite govt restrictions. And they were traveling on official business, so we know it was govt paid travel. That can be easily found through a Google search.
"Her" money is her money, just like your money is "your" money after your employer pays you.
Just because she is a climate change activist doesn't mean she can't live her life. And I don't think she ever said poor people shouldn't be flying. If you can find that quote, I would like to see it.
Why are you so angry and assuming the worst in people?
@lucky, while I’m not particularly aligned with AOC’s politics, you should know she attended the Met to make a statement. Her dress was painted with a huge slogan Tax the Rich…. While everyone in attendance is making a lot more than 250k a year. I’m pretty sure her ticket was comped at the Met ball.
It shouldn't be a big deal but she has kind of brought it upon herself. Nobody is probably going to care if they see 95% of other members of congress sitting in first.
The level of vitriol you've received for this story doesn't align with a party of inclusion. I also chuckle at how easy it is for some to defend her hypocrisy because she's on the blue team. But if this has been Mitch McConnell...
Wake up folks. The elected ruling class is all the same.
I guess OMAAT does do sensationalist after all. After last week's long treatise and personal reflection post that essentially threw a lot of your colleagues under the bus you would think otherwise.
What happened to Tiffany?
That is a great question. And all the other guest bloggers.
Good riddance to Tiff. Unlike Lucky she was probably team AOC. After the Floyd murder she was posting racist anti-white nonsense, and was then leaving condescending responses in the comments section to anyone who disagreed with her.
There's no such thing as "anti-white racism"
@Sel, D
Yes! Down with free speech!
I live in D.C. frankly, a much more newsworthy story would be any member of congress in coach.
I live in dc too and normally see them heading to coach as I sit in my first class seat
Ben - disagree with your take. Flying first class is certainly luxurious compared to coach like sardines. The average first class passenger would be considered rich by those flying in coach. She was flying out of Austin, she wasn’t upgraded.
As someone who’s supposedly for the people, optics would state move down to coach. It might not be “fair” but she’s the one go is supposedly for the people. So she should politely decline...
Ben - disagree with your take. Flying first class is certainly luxurious compared to coach like sardines. The average first class passenger would be considered rich by those flying in coach. She was flying out of Austin, she wasn’t upgraded.
As someone who’s supposedly for the people, optics would state move down to coach. It might not be “fair” but she’s the one go is supposedly for the people. So she should politely decline met galas and first class galavants for now. Let her live lavishly when she leaves Congress with her golden parachute. She can’t have it both ways.
The only real question raised here is: Clicks or No Clicks?
AOC flies American Airlines because she wanted to meet voters, Delta or United flyers can't vote because they are not American.
How much carbon did her trip consume?
Absolute trash article perpetuating Murdoch and co attempts at dividing the world further.
Seriously you put out some trash sometimes for clicks and I’m less and less up for visiting your site.
@ Abbl - bye. You do not have to announce your departure....
Very disappointed in this story.
Also how you feel the need to distance yourself with the “moderate” label as if that will give you more credibility.
Lots of “moderates” thought LGBTQ equal rights was too radical.
AOC advocates for people much less well off than she is. And I applaud her for that. Can only poor people can fight for the poor??? we know how much the rich help their own.
Any more columns like this and should we buy a log cabin for you???
Seriously +1
Some of the articles he puts out are questionable and click baity but bringing politics into it via such a ridiculous froth at the mouth piece of content is just shameful.
Yes, the same way she advocates for masks and goes to Florida (a place she always criticized) to party mask free and got Covid. If that is not be a hypocrite I don't know what it is. She is the Greta of politics. Do what I say, don't do what I do.
@Santastico why is nuance always lost on conservative/regressive types? In what world is eating outdoors with her SO “partying mask free”?
+2 I about to comment exactly this so thank you. Apparently anyone who adocates for equality and more social programs can never do anything ¨luxurious¨ because of ¨optics¨.
-2 No, the problem is not advocating for more social programs of the poor. The problem is the condemnation and vitriol and contempt that comes out of her mouth (yes I know she’s a politician so it comes with the territory, but still) towards the rich because they are persecuting the poor.
If you condemn and look down like that, then you better be careful of being a hypocrite.
Just like a very...
-2 No, the problem is not advocating for more social programs of the poor. The problem is the condemnation and vitriol and contempt that comes out of her mouth (yes I know she’s a politician so it comes with the territory, but still) towards the rich because they are persecuting the poor.
If you condemn and look down like that, then you better be careful of being a hypocrite.
Just like a very religious married person who condemns sexual immorality better not be flirting with some young woman/man or watching pornography.
+3 So many people don't even know what democratic socialism is, and how successful it's been in Scandinavian countries, where yes, they still have business and first class on their airplanes!
An AOC spokesperson just stated that “no government funds were used on this flight.”
End of story: If it doesn't cost the taxpayer any government funds, it's none of our business. This applies to Cruz as well as AOC, and down the line.
Yes, but what about the ¨optics¨? The ¨moderates¨ might get upset.
No doubt. She can do what she wants with her own money. Why are the rest of us allowed (including those of use who oppose systematic wealth inequality) allowed to fly business/first, but she's not?
No big deal.
People who fly often get upgraded for all sort of reasons, as do Congresspersons as a rule. I sat behind Lindsey Graham in biz on the GSP-DCA route twice, and thought nothing about it. He worked a bit, had a soda, and managed his iTunes playlist, just like all the rest of us sitting up front.
I suspect AOC has status or someone noticed that a Congresswoman was on the flight...
No big deal.
People who fly often get upgraded for all sort of reasons, as do Congresspersons as a rule. I sat behind Lindsey Graham in biz on the GSP-DCA route twice, and thought nothing about it. He worked a bit, had a soda, and managed his iTunes playlist, just like all the rest of us sitting up front.
I suspect AOC has status or someone noticed that a Congresswoman was on the flight and moved her up, and she dis some work, had a soda, and listened to tunes just like LG, without the Barbara Mandrell.
The Turkey sandwiches are gone since the 16th. Flew 1st class yesterday, early flight. Choice of breakfast was fruit plate, with yogurt and granola on the side, or southwestern omlette. Pre- departure drinks too!
AOC talks a great game but is in the same category of people in Congress that includes Marjorie Taylor Greene, Josh Hawley, and even Ilhan Omar. They refuse to do the job they were elected to do. They are all about slogans and they each represent and espouse ideas that have torn away at the fabric of their respective parties, and illustrate perfectly well just how far the United States has fallen into the abyss,...
AOC talks a great game but is in the same category of people in Congress that includes Marjorie Taylor Greene, Josh Hawley, and even Ilhan Omar. They refuse to do the job they were elected to do. They are all about slogans and they each represent and espouse ideas that have torn away at the fabric of their respective parties, and illustrate perfectly well just how far the United States has fallen into the abyss, culturally, politically, and how bankrupt a nation it is in every way. I personally don't care if AOC flies up front or in the back. What I do take offense to is that she assumes she has a mandate to change things. She doesn't. She won her seat with a tiny sliver of voters. She isn't the future of American politics. She is part of the same cabal of folks that ultimately have destroyed it. Same goes for the other aforementioned politicians. In short, they all suck.
BS. At hearings etc she asks very good questions on topic. She most certainly is doing her job, unlike others who just rant at hearings, (if they haven't been kicked off of committees altogether).
This is important not because she did or did not use government money. It’s important because it shows how AOC is a hypocrite who rails against the “rich” and says that they shouldn’t be able to spend their own money as they see fit while simultaneously living like a celebrity and enjoying the leisure class lifestyle she would deny them. She is the prototypical limousine liberal/champagne Bolshevik. So ask what she would ask: what else...
This is important not because she did or did not use government money. It’s important because it shows how AOC is a hypocrite who rails against the “rich” and says that they shouldn’t be able to spend their own money as they see fit while simultaneously living like a celebrity and enjoying the leisure class lifestyle she would deny them. She is the prototypical limousine liberal/champagne Bolshevik. So ask what she would ask: what else could that extra $200 been spent on to better the world other than her extra leg room and turkey sandwich?
So who are you? The Marie Antoinette, elite rich conservative that isn’t shy about helping only yourself? Or the self-loathing closeted republican who has no money and constantly rails against people who are only fighting for your economic best interests?
Kind of like the entire Republican party? Pretends to care about the Common Man, yet now there's no more child tax credit, does nothing for the working class in the slightest, and oh yeah there was a $1.5T giveaway to the top 1% and corporations during the last administration...selective memory.
Every US airline has a “special guest list” and at every airline every member of Congress, Republican, Democrat, or Independent is on that list. They get upgraded all time time when seats are available.
The New York Post is owned by Rupert Murdoch so of course they’re going to make an issue of this. And I seriously doubt they will ever report the same upgrade treatment given to a Republican.
You’ve just described systemic corruption. Why should she be exempted from having integrity?
Your story reminds me of the time Bernie Sanders asked Mitt Romney “how many private homes do you need to have?” …to which Romney responded “Apparently fewer than you”. The Liberal Left’s motto is basically “do as I say, not as I do”. Elections have consequences boys & girls. Look no further than where we are right now. God help us all.
Better than a decades-long tax cheating, racist, dictator-cozying fascist...
Yes, elections have cpnsequences. We just had the highest economic growth in thirty years. Please God, make this suffering stop.
When people are envious of a public figure flying domestic first class, you know a society has reached a new low.
It's the kind of negative campaigning is really ugly, because even if there is nothing illicit happening, some negative impression sticks.
When I worked as a senior civil servant, I had something similar. The right-wing nationalist party launched a parliamentary inquiry whether I was receiving two salaries. Which I didn't and I was cleared completely and immediately. But if you search my full name and "double salary" (in German), you still find the story immediately,...
It's the kind of negative campaigning is really ugly, because even if there is nothing illicit happening, some negative impression sticks.
When I worked as a senior civil servant, I had something similar. The right-wing nationalist party launched a parliamentary inquiry whether I was receiving two salaries. Which I didn't and I was cleared completely and immediately. But if you search my full name and "double salary" (in German), you still find the story immediately, 20 years later ... Later the congress man who initiated the inquiry told me this was exactly what he wanted to achieve, because he know from the beginning that the allegations were false ...
"Call her a hypocrite for going to the Met Gala?"
Nah, nothing says socialists can't have fun and party now and then.
This is definitely a non-story.
True, Socialists can have fun. It's the choice of venue and people that made her HYPOCRITE when she attended the Met Gala. And don't even try to squirm your way out of this. You know full well that janitors, teachers, blue collar workers, etc. etc. don't attend these elite functions!
@John, it makes it hard to take the right’s criticisms seriously when they turn everything into a mountain, eg all the posters here calling outdoor dining with one other person (an SO) maskless “parting maskless in Florida”, as evidence of hypocrisy.
What a non-story.
I'm looking forward to AOC becoming the first female and latino President.
LOL!!! In your dreams. Not even the Latino population would vote for a lunatic like that.
Refer to Miami Dade 2016/2020
Exactly. I am Latino and I know what lunatic radicals like AOC did in our countries. There is no way a nut head like her will get their votes.
Poor AOC, having to suffer AA’s horrible sandwich.
Anyway, no I do not care as long as she didn’t use taxpayers’ money or got reimbursed by it. New York Post is Murdoch Media, so that automatically reduces any credibility they might have
Non story. Not sure why you spent the time wiring all of these words for a nonissue
This must be the most stupid story you wrote.
You gonna write a story about everyone in politics and their flights?
Agree. A regrettable low for OMAT (not to mention the third grade analysis)
For a minute I thought I clicked on Gary Leff’s view from the wing. This is the type of trash that made me stop visiting his garbage dump site. Please just ignore foolish articles like this one and your article weeks ago about the pilot who had a Let’s Go Brandon sticker. Your insight to travel is why I come here to escape the divisive political nonsense found on other websites. Please stick to travel.
Agree, I have never criticized an article before but this is really scraping the bottom of the barrel.
This is garbage click-bait non-story, typical sensational pearl-clutching from the NY Post, and it’s shameful OMAAT is amplifying it