Exclusive: AOC says Hakeem Jeffries primary challenge not a "good idea"

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) signaled in an interview with Axios on Monday that she would not support New York City Council member Chi Ossé in a primary challenge against House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.).

Why it matters: Ocasio-Cortez is one of several high-profile progressives distancing from Ossé's potential run, arguing that it is a distraction from New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani's victory.

Ocasio-Cortez told Axios during a brief interview at the U.S. Capitol that she was "not aware" that Ossé was challenging.

"But," she added, "I certainly don't think a primary challenge to the leader is a good idea right now."