In reaction to Elon Musk’s assertion that Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is “not that smart,” Ocasio-Cortez hit back on social media, citing her achievements and defending her IQ. Ocasio-Cortez initiated the conversation by making fun of House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, and Musk responded by stating in a comment on a post by conservative influencer Ashley St. Clair, “She’s just not that smart.” In her answer, Ocasio-Cortez provided a litany of her accomplishments, including the fact that she was the youngest woman in the history of the United States to be elected to Congress, that she was investigating Michael Cohen, that she had authored a substantial FEMA funeral aid program, and that she had led the development of a US Climate Corps. Her statement came to a close with the phrase, “Stay mad.”
Ocasio-Cortez’s assertions were contested by some conservatives and opponents, while others expressed doubt over her achievements. Conservatives and critics also joined in on the discussion. The conversation that took place on social media highlights the persistent political and ideological gaps that exist in American politics.