I respect AOC and honestly agree with her opinions on Jill Stein but if her idea of winning power depends on the whims of the democrats, can she really say her strategy is any more sound?

Well, it's certainly better than being under the tyranny of the GOP. AOC is partially the reason why Biden has been going more left on union-related policies as of late. I think she definitely has what it takes to be a good senator or even president after gaining enough experience in governing.