Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) has become the first user on Bluesky to surpass one million followers, marking a significant milestone for the emerging social media platform.
Bluesky confirmed the news on Monday, Dec. 2, 2024, highlighting Ocasio-Cortez’s achievement as a first for any user other than the platform’s official account.
Bluesky, a decentralized social platform created in 2019 by Twitter’s former CEO Jack Dorsey, has seen a surge in popularity among Democrats and left-leaning users dissatisfied with X (formerly Twitter).
Many cite a decline in enjoyment on X since Elon Musk’s acquisition of the platform.
Addressing the migration in a Tuesday post on Bluesky, Ocasio-Cortez commented:
“People are leaving because it’s not fun anymore, and no one is obligated to be on a platform they don’t enjoy.”
The platform’s CEO, Jay Graber, recently noted Bluesky’s rapid growth, with approximately one million new users joining daily.
“People are finding joy in making online connections again,” she said in a CNN interview, highlighting the platform’s focus on fostering meaningful interactions.
Bluesky replicates many of Twitter’s features, including messaging, a feed tab, and a discovery section. Its growth signals increasing interest in alternative platforms amidst dissatisfaction with traditional social media giants.
Ocasio-Cortez’s landmark follows her continued influence as a digital trailblazer, leveraging platforms to connect with a broad audience.
Her presence on Bluesky highlights the platform’s growing prominence as a space for public conversation and community building.
