"Gained at least 50 pounds": Trump ally body-shaming Congresswoman draws social media backlash

So, in case you missed it, far-right political commentator Laura Loomer decided to log on and take a swing at Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) — but not over her policies, voting record, or anything remotely political.

Nope. Instead, she took a jab at AOC’s appearance, claiming the congresswoman had “gained at least 50 pounds” since taking office and calling her “massive.”Seriously?Loomer’s tweet was met with swift and brutal backlash — and not just from AOC’s usual supporters. Even people who don’t particularly agree with AOC politically were like, “Girl, what are you doing?” One Twitter user straight-up said, “Don’t do this.

Please. Attack her policies and corruption all day. Leave the body shaming alone.” Another chimed in with, “I’m a conservative but let’s criticize policies and NOT resort to personal petty attacks.

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The comment section turned into a roast-fest — just not in the way Loomer probably expected. One user pointed out, “Y’all are talking about her gaining weight when your president is at least 300 pounds,” referring to Donald Trump.

Another asked, “So do you make all your money from Twitter clicks now or what?” Ouch.But here's the real issue: Why are we still doing this? Body-shaming, especially of public figures, is outdated, lazy, and frankly, damaging. When the conversation shifts from someone’s ideas to their waistline, we all lose. It's one thing to hold leaders accountable for their decisions — that’s democracy. But attacking someone’s body? That’s just mean-spirited nonsense that distracts from real issues.Let’s be real — comments like these aren’t just jabs at one person. They reinforce toxic beauty standards, especially for women in the public eye. It tells people (especially young women) that no matter how smart, accomplished, or powerful you are, your body will still be scrutinized and picked apart. That message is harmful on every level.And the mental health consequences? Very real. Body-shaming contributes to self-esteem issues, eating disorders, anxiety, depression — the list goes on.

It’s 2025, and we’re still out here judging people based on how much weight they’ve gained or lost? Come on.Also, let’s not ignore the obvious: criticizing someone’s looks doesn’t make your argument stronger. In fact, it makes it weaker. If the only way you can “win” a debate is by calling someone fat, you probably didn’t have a very strong point to begin with.What makes this whole thing even more ridiculous is that AOC has never been one to shy away from a political debate.

Love her or hate her, she’s one of the most vocal and active young politicians out there. So if you’ve got a problem with her policies, bring it. Let’s talk about that. Healthcare, the economy, climate change — there’s no shortage of issues to debate. But going after her body? That’s just lazy and cruel.So here’s a radical idea: let’s grow up. Let’s start holding politicians accountable for what they do, not how they look. Let’s make politics about ideas again, not insults. Whether you agree with AOC or not, she deserves the same basic respect every human does.Body-shaming might get a few clicks, but it’s not a good look. And thankfully, the internet seemed to agree this time around.