Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) has made it abundantly clear that she stands firmly behind Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Chair Lina Khan, warning that any attempts by wealthy Democratic donors to push her out of a potential Harris administration will be met with significant backlash. In a statement shared on X, Ocasio-Cortez asserted, “If anyone tries to come after Lina Khan, there will be a brawl. That’s a guarantee.” Her remarks underscore the intense loyalty she feels toward Khan, whom she sees as a champion for working Americans.
Ocasio-Cortez’s comments were sparked by billionaire investor Mark Cuban, who suggested that Vice President Kamala Harris should consider replacing Khan should she win the election in November. Cuban, who has been a vocal advocate for various Democratic causes, stated in a recent interview that Khan is ultimately doing more harm than good. He declared, “If it were up to me, I wouldn’t keep her.” This sentiment resonates with a growing faction of wealthy donors who have been critical of Khan’s aggressive approach to antitrust issues.
Khan has emerged as a key figure in the Biden administration’s campaign against corporate monopolies, much to the dismay of many in the business community. In a twist of irony, even Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) has come to her defense, labeling Cuban’s assessment as misguided. He praised Khan as “the best FTC Chair in modern history,” emphasizing her role in curbing corporate greed and protecting consumers and workers alike.
The ongoing conflict between progressives and their more affluent allies sheds light on the internal divisions within the Democratic Party. As some backers of Harris continue to praise Khan for her antitrust efforts, the stakes are high for the future of both the FTC and the Democratic leadership. The loyalty Ocasio-Cortez and others show toward Khan reveals a broader ideological battle that could shape the party’s direction for years to come. In this landscape, Republicans can take note of the potential chaos brewing within Democratic ranks, highlighting the importance of stable leadership that prioritizes the interests of all Americans, not just a select few.