Ocasio-Cortez knocks Vance Board of Peace joke
The Hill
by Fiona BorkFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) publicly addressed Vice President Pence's awkward attempt at humor during President Trump's inaugural Gaza Board of Peace meeting in Washington. During the event, Pence thanked Trump for his leadership before making a joke about Ocasio-Cortez after she appeared to stumble during her response. Ocasio-Cortez swiftly called out the silence that followed Pence's comment, highlighting the tension and discomfort in the room. This incident occurred as Trump promoted his Gaza peace plan, which has faced significant criticism.
The meeting, held on Thursday, was part of Trump's efforts to showcase his administration's approach to resolving conflicts in the Middle East. Ocasio-Cortez, a prominent figure in progressive politics, was among several lawmakers present. Pence's joke about her stumbling drew immediate attention, and the awkward pause that followed underscored the high-stakes nature of the event. Ocasio-Cortez's response not only addressed the silence but also criticized the administration's handling of Gaza issues.
This moment highlights the delicate dynamics of political humor and the challenges of navigating public criticism in high-profile settings. It reflects broader tensions within Trump's administration and raises questions about his approach to foreign policy, particularly regarding Israel and Palestine. The incident underscores how easily such moments can become focal points for media scrutiny, impacting perceptions of leadership and diplomacy.
For readers interested in politics, this story illustrates the unpredictable nature of public interactions between high-ranking officials and the potential consequences of their words. It also sheds light on the broader debate surrounding Trump's Gaza peace initiative, which has been met with skepticism from many quarters. The incident serves as a reminder of how even minor missteps can amplify into significant political moments, shaping public perception and policy discussions.
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/20/2026