AOC's lavish Puerto Rico trip sparks hypocrisy debate

 December 16, 2025

Hold onto your wallets, folks—Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., known for her fiery critiques of wealth and privilege, has some explaining to do about a nearly $50,000 campaign spending spree in Puerto Rico.

Reports surfaced last week revealing that AOC’s campaign dropped a hefty sum on luxury hotels, high-end dining, and a venue rental during a trip earlier this year, Fox News reported

This lavish expenditure happened while she attended a Bad Bunny concert in San Juan, raising eyebrows among even her staunchest defenders.

Campaign Cash Meets Luxury Lifestyle

The details, uncovered by Fox News Digital through AOC’s latest campaign filings, paint a picture of extravagance that’s tough to reconcile with her public rhetoric.

Over $15,000 went to two upscale hotels in San Juan during the time of Bad Bunny’s “Residency” tour at El Choli Coliseo de Puerto Rico.

That tour, a star-studded event running from August through September, was just part of the backdrop for her campaign’s spending.

Puerto Rico Trip: Activism or Indulgence?

Additionally, her campaign shelled out more than $10,500 on meals and catering services in the same reporting period, covering July through September.

During this trip, AOC was spotted in social media videos visiting a housing development in Puerto Rico, speaking out against gentrification—a cause in line with her platform.

Yet, footage from August 10 also shows her enjoying box seats at Bad Bunny’s concert, dancing alongside Rep. Nydia Velázquez, D-N.Y.

Critics Call Out Double Standards

While it’s fine to unwind, using campaign funds for such opulence raises questions about whether this aligns with the image of a fighter for the working class.

Conservative voices were quick to highlight the apparent contradiction, with some labeling it a clear case of double standards.

“AOC rails nonstop against ‘the rich,’ yet drops tens of thousands in campaign cash on luxury hotels, upscale catering, and elite venues on a Puerto Rico trip,” said GOP Florida congressional hopeful Michael Carbonara.

More Voices Weigh In on Spending

Carbonara’s critique reflects a broader frustration among those who feel progressive leaders often dodge scrutiny for enjoying the perks they publicly condemn.

Former White House press secretary Sean Spicer also weighed in, noting, “This is not new for her, she's a hypocrite.”

Spicer referenced AOC’s past appearance at the MET Gala in a designer dress emblazoned with “Tax The Rich,” suggesting a pattern of embracing luxury while criticizing it—a sharp but fair observation about political optics.

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