Overview
- Riley Gaines used a Fox News appearance to challenge Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to a debate on topics including socialism vs. capitalism, abortion and religion.
- Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez replied on X, “And I would like to challenge this person to get a real job,” after previously mocking Gaines for finishing fifth in a college race.
- Gaines responded that she is a mother and called motherhood a real job, while conservative commentators rallied to her defense and amplified her debate push.
- Gaines’ activism stems from the 2022 NCAA meet where she tied for fifth with transgender swimmer Lia Thomas in the 200-yard freestyle, as Thomas won the 500-yard freestyle.
- The dispute has continued through cable segments and social posts with no debate accepted or scheduled, turning the exchange into partisan media fodder.