Fox News Hosts Clash Over Calling AOC a “Smart Democrat” During Heated Segment

Three Fox News hosts found themselves at odds on Sunday after one of them referred to Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) as a “smart Democrat,” sparking a lively debate during a segment on Fox & Friends. The discussion began when host Charlie Hurt praised Ocasio-Cortez for her political awareness.

“And smart Democrats realize that they have a real problem,” Hurt said. “And I think one of those smart Democrats is AOC.” The remark immediately drew a strong reaction from co-host Jason Chaffetz, who exclaimed, “Wait a sec! Wait a sec!”

Co-host Rachel Campos-Duffy interjected, siding with Hurt. “I’m with Charlie on this,” she said. “I think you don’t underestimate that woman!” Hurt elaborated, arguing that while Ocasio-Cortez is often mocked for her controversial statements, she has a keen understanding of political culture.

“Yeah, I think that we make fun of a lot of the stupid things she says. And she does say some stupid things,” Hurt acknowledged. “But she is a lot more in tune with where people are than you would think she was based on some of the stupid things she says.”

Hurt referenced Ocasio-Cortez’s recent warning that former President Donald Trump is “more dangerous than ever” because he has become “normalized” in American politics. Campos-Duffy added her perspective, suggesting that Trump was unfairly treated during his first term. “Trump was not treated like a ‘normal human’ during his first term,” Campos-Duffy argued.

“And now they can’t stop it. It’s happened.” Chaffetz, however, was unconvinced and dismissed the praise for Ocasio-Cortez. “AOC, in my opinion, is an idiot,” he quipped. Campos-Duffy pushed back, acknowledging Ocasio-Cortez’s shortcomings but emphasizing her cultural relevance.

“Say what you will about her,” Campos-Duffy replied. “For a woman, especially who has a degree in economics, she’s economically ignorant.” “But she understands the culture,” she continued. “And that’s why she’s worried.”

The fiery exchange highlights the divisive perceptions of Ocasio-Cortez, even among conservatives. While some hosts recognized her political savvy and cultural influence, others focused on her controversial statements and criticized her economic positions.

The segment underscored broader tensions in analyzing political figures like Ocasio-Cortez, who continue to draw both admiration and sharp criticism across the political spectrum.