Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Ocasio-Cortez Faces Backlash Over Venezuela Geography Blunder

2/20/2026

45 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) faced criticism at the Munich Security Conference after she claimed Venezuela lies below the equator.
Assemblyman Matt Slater, a former classmate, mocked her gaffe by highlighting her global studies major.
Ocasio-Cortez criticized Nicolás Maduro as anti-democratic while discussing Venezuelan politics.
Despite her claim, Venezuela is located just above the equator.

1 of 1

Story summary

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) faced criticism at the Munich Security Conference after she claimed Venezuela lies below the equator.
Assemblyman Matt Slater, a former classmate, mocked her gaffe by highlighting her global studies major.
Ocasio-Cortez criticized Nicolás Maduro as anti-democratic while discussing Venezuelan politics.
Despite her claim, Venezuela is located just above the equator.