Ocasio-Cortez youngest woman elected to US House

By Michael Hernandez

WASHINGTON

Democratic socialist Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez became the youngest woman to be elected to the House of Representatives Tuesday.

Republican Representative Elise Stefanik previously held the distinction when she won her seat at the age of 30.

Ocasio-Cortez, who will be 29 years old when she begins her term next January, had widely been expected to win, having received the endorsement of former presidential hopeful Bernie Sanders.

The Latina pulled off an upset victory earlier this year in a primary race against Democratic incumbent Joe Crowley. Ocasio-Cortez’s victory shot her into the national spotlight with questions about whether the far-left wing of the Democratic party she represents is posing a viable challenge to the establishment.

Crowley was one of the highest-ranking Republicans in the House, with expectations that he would assume the speakership.

Ocasio-Cortez is set to represent New York's 14th congressional district, which includes parts of Queens and the Bronx.