WASHINGTON, D.C.— Former bartender and current Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) is reportedly mulling over a return to her roots after President Donald Trump unveiled plans to make tips tax-free. The groundbreaking proposal, part of his sweeping economic agenda, has stirred excitement among service industry workers—and possibly AOC herself.
“Tips are the lifeblood of hardworking Americans in the service industry,” Trump declared during a press conference. “Starting now, the IRS won’t touch them. Waitstaff, bartenders, delivery drivers—they’ve been taxed enough already.”
A Sudden Career Reevaluation
Sources close to Ocasio-Cortez say the congresswoman was overheard discussing the benefits of bartending under this new tax policy. “I’m just saying, with tips being tax-free, I could pull in more cash mixing mojitos than debating Republicans on the House floor,” AOC allegedly joked to staffers.
Ocasio-Cortez, who often highlights her time as a bartender before entering politics, has used her working-class background to connect with voters. However, critics argue her policies, such as advocating for higher taxes on the wealthy, clash with the principles of financial independence she championed as a service worker.
Mixed Reactions
The announcement has sparked a range of reactions on Capitol Hill. Conservatives have praised Trump’s proposal as a win for everyday workers. Rep. Jim Jordan (R-OH) quipped, “Finally, a policy that makes life easier for hardworking Americans. Even AOC might see the light now.”
Meanwhile, Ocasio-Cortez’s liberal colleagues expressed concern. “If Alexandria leaves Congress to bartend, who will tweet overly simplistic solutions to complex issues?” lamented one anonymous progressive.
The Return of ‘Alex from the Bronx’?
While Ocasio-Cortez hasn’t officially announced a decision, speculation is rampant. Some suggest she could leverage her political celebrity to attract patrons to a high-end bar in Manhattan, while others imagine a grassroots effort to rebrand her former Queens workplace as a progressive hotspot.
During an impromptu Q&A on Instagram Live, AOC addressed the rumors with a coy smile. “Listen, I loved bartending—it’s honest work, and you actually get thanked for what you do, unlike in Congress. If Trump’s tax plan passes, who knows? Maybe you’ll see me shaking cocktails again. But don’t worry, I’ll still be tweeting.”
Economic Impact
Experts predict Trump’s tax-free tips policy could revolutionize the service industry, potentially attracting more workers and reducing turnover. “This is a game-changer,” said economist Dr. Peter Thrift. “If AOC is considering bartending under this plan, you know it’s lucrative.”
As Trump’s administration prepares to roll out the initiative, America eagerly awaits to see if Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez will trade the halls of Congress for the clinking of glasses behind the bar. For now, one thing is certain: politics is about to get shaken—and stirred.