Is AOC running for president? Why the popular congresswoman isn't on the Democratic debate stage

Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez's age is an issue

In the past year, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has skyrocketed to political fame in America as a progressive firebrand who advocates on behalf of workers, the environment, people of colour, and for universal healthcare.

With more than two dozen Democrats running for president, many of them unknown to the vast majority of the United States, the question has popped up -- why isn't she on the debate stage in Miami?

Well, there are a couple reasons why the New York Democrat may not be throwing her hat into the overcrowded ring: She says she doesn't want it, literally just got into Congress, and her age happens to be an issue.

The first two reasons aside, Ms Ocasio-Cortez's youth is the biggest obstacle to her taking on Donald Trump in 2020.

That's because the US Constitution sets the minimum age requirement at 35-years-old. Ms Ocasio-Cortez, at the present moment, is only 29-years-old.

It brings her the distinction of being the youngest woman to ever serve in Congress. But, she has to wait six years if she hopes to make a run for the Oval Office.