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A former aide to Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), Saikat Chakrabarti, has drawn significant attention after announcing his run against veteran House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.). Chakrabarti’s controversial history resurfaced when a photograph revealed him wearing a shirt depicting Subhas Chandra Bose, an Indian nationalist known for his collaboration with the Nazis during World War II.
The Fallout of a Historic Campaign
Chakrabarti served as Ocasio-Cortez’s chief of staff during her groundbreaking congressional campaign in 2018. He departed from the role a year later after publicly criticizing various Democratic lawmakers.
A Symbol of Controversy
After Ocasio-Cortez’s victory, Chakrabarti was photographed wearing a shirt emblazoned with Bose’s likeness while participating in a media interview. In the video, titled “Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s Chief of Staff on Acting Fast in Congress,” he discussed the congresswoman’s promising political future. The video was disseminated by NowThis Impact, a progressive media group.
Understanding Subhas Chandra Bose
Bose has long been a polarizing historical figure. He was known for advocating socialist policies in the late 1930s and early 1940s. During World War II, Bose formed an alliance with the Axis Powers—Germany, Italy, and Japan—meeting leaders such as Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini.
Chakrabarti’s Political Ambitions
On Wednesday, Chakrabarti declared his candidacy for the House seat currently occupied by Pelosi. As the 2026 midterm elections approach, Pelosi will be 86 years old, raising questions about her future. Chakrabarti criticized the current leadership, stating, “It’s become clear to me that the Democratic Party needs new leadership.”
He added, “I don’t understand how D.C.’s Democratic leaders are so paralyzed and unprepared for this moment after living through President Trump’s first term—and after Trump and Elon warned us exactly what they planned to do.” His words suggest a widespread discontent with the party’s direction.
Pelosi’s Intentions in the Race
Meanwhile, Pelosi has filed the necessary paperwork to seek a 21st term. Her decision indicates a desire to continue her long-standing political journey. Despite the challenges, she remains a powerful figure in Democratic politics.
Chakrabarti’s Sharp Critique of Colleagues
During his tenure with Ocasio-Cortez, Chakrabarti made headlines for critiquing fellow Democrats. He notably called out Representative Sharice Davids (D-Kan.), one of the first Native American women in Congress. Chakrabarti accused Davids of enabling a racist system after she voted in favor of a Senate border bill that lacked progressive support.
Implications of the Upcoming Election
As the political landscape evolves, Chakrabarti’s challenge to Pelosi could symbolize a shift within the Democratic Party. The race may underscore the growing divide between traditional party leadership and emerging progressive voices.
The coming months will reveal whether Chakrabarti’s controversial past impacts his campaign, as well as how voters respond to calls for new leadership. His entry into the race is likely to invigorate discussions surrounding the future direction of the Democratic Party.
A Look Ahead
In a potential showdown, Pelosi’s vast experience will contrast sharply with Chakrabarti’s rising progressive brand. Both figures represent distinct visions for the party’s future, making this a key race to watch as the 2026 midterms approach. Whether Chakrabarti can leverage public sentiment into a successful candidacy remains to be seen.
