"Game On, Congress: Female Democrats Drop Cringe-Worthy 'Fighter' Video That’s Taking Social Media by Storm
Female Democratic politicians, including Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, have released a viral video mimicking a video game character selection screen, drawing comparisons to classics like Marvel’s Avengers and Street Fighter—prompting widespread reactions online.
The quirky, pop culture-inspired clip, has sparked debate about the intersection of politics and entertainment, with many labeling it “cringe” while others see it as a playful attempt to connect with younger audiences.
In a move that’s electrified social media and ignited a firestorm of reactions, a group of female Democratic politicians, including high-profile Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC), have unleashed a video that’s being dubbed “the cringiest of 2025.” The clip, which dropped on March 6, 2025, transforms the lawmakers into characters in a parody of iconic video game character selection screens, reminiscent of blockbuster franchises like Marvel’s Avengers and Street Fighter. But while the intent may have been to engage a younger, digitally-savvy audience, the result has polarized viewers, with reactions ranging from amusement to outright bewilderment.
The video features AOC and her colleagues—Lauren Underwood, Katherine Clark, Judy Chu, Jasmine Crockett, and Susie Lee—striking poses against a striking zebra-patterned backdrop, complete with text overlays listing their political achievements and “skills.” AOC is highlighted as the youngest woman and Latina elected to the House from New York’s 14th congressional district, a nod to her well-known status as a trailblazer in American politics. The format mimics the dramatic introductions of characters in fighting games, where players choose their avatars before diving into battle—a style popularized by the Street Fighter series, which debuted its character select screen in Street Fighter II, and extended into modern pop culture through Marvel’s Avengers video games and films.
The timing of the video aligns with a broader 2025 trend of political figures embracing viral, pop culture-inspired content to connect with constituents. Earlier this year, AI-generated political satire videos, such as the “Trump Gaza” clip, demonstrated how politicians and their supporters are increasingly blending entertainment with advocacy. However, this particular video has drawn sharp criticism for its perceived awkwardness, with social media users describing it as “cringe-tastic” and questioning whether such antics justify the lawmakers’ public funding. Others, though, have defended it as a lighthearted attempt to resonate with younger voters accustomed to TikTok trends and gaming culture.
Set against a backdrop of ongoing political polarization, the video’s reception underscores the risks and rewards of blending politics with pop culture. While AOC and her colleagues have long been known for their media-savvy approaches—Ocasio-Cortez, in particular, has been a dominant figure in social media since her 2019 rise, often drawing more online attention than presidential candidates—the latest effort has sparked a debate about authenticity and relevance. Is this a bold step toward modernizing political outreach, or a misstep that alienates more traditional voters? As of March 6, 2025, the jury is still out, but one thing is clear: this “fighter” video has punched its way into the cultural conversation, for better or worse.