It is the ideology, not fact, that defines what will be accepted as truth, reason, or “morally right.” The ideologue will merely reinterpret, deny, or deflect facts so they become consistent with their outlook, or pose no threat to it. Ideologues press forward in optimism that they are on the right side of History, Progress, and Justice.

Many on the right are dismissive of Ocasio-Cortez and her apparent obstinacy in the face of facts, opting to lampoon her odd behavior rather than take what she is doing seriously. But as her following continues to grow, partly as a result of the perceived bullying by the Right, this is unwise.

The optimist ideologue, if armed with enough power and the political instruments to pursue her ideals, might be tempted to get rid of the people and things impeding her march toward “justice.”