AOC

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez streams A just began her Twitch streaming career. Twitch, an entertainment platform typically used for video game livestreams, has been taken over by U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. With one of the highest viewed debut streams ever, AOC drew a crowd of 700,000 to watch her play Among Us. How is it possible someone’s first ever stream drew some a huge crowd? Simple, it’s because AOC is a woman.

Woman Streamers in Twitch’s Toxic Climate

With the election drawing closer, political figures and celebrities have made statements on the importance of younger folks voting. With the 18-29 age range being least like to vote, social media is an effective way of reaching this demographic and reminding them of the importance of voting. AOC, now certified gamer girl, used her Among Us stream to reach out to the youth. However, there’s one mystery. How could Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, on her first stream ever, pull 700,000 viewers? Since Twitch is known to be a male dominated platform, there has been a huge stigma around women streamers. While most streamers and viewers are male, there are still many successful female streamers. Some examples include KittyPlaysGames, LegendaryLea, and Kaceytron.

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Streams, Potential Full Time Streamer?

There’s the harmful, destructive, and sexist assumption that woman streamers have it easy. Which is exactly the case with Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. There’s no other explanation on why her first stream ever could draw such a crowd. During the stream, AOC discussed the importance of voting blue and removing Trump from office. It’s unknown how this fits into the gameplay of Among Us. Nonetheless, we have high hope for AOC’s new streaming career. Was this a one time stunt, or will AOC drop politics and become a full time streamer? It’s an exciting development as we move closer to election day. Maybe soon we will see Biden play Fortnite or Trump play Legend of Zelda Ocarina of Time.