As Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez expands her national profile through speaking tours with Senator Bernie Sanders and appearances at major events, many residents back home in her Bronx and Queens district say they’re feeling neglected. While she champions national causes like income inequality and healthcare, concerns are mounting locally over a sharp rise in crime and a growing sense of unease among constituents.
Recent data shows that major crime has surged in certain parts of her district. In Queens’ 110th Precinct, which includes parts of Roosevelt Avenue, burglary, robbery, and auto theft have increased by 105%. The neighboring 115th Precinct has reported an 85% rise. These numbers have ignited frustration among community members who feel their safety has taken a backseat to political grandstanding.
Guadalupe Alvarez, a longtime Elmhurst resident and once a supporter of the congresswoman, voiced her disillusionment after a local town hall meeting left her with more questions than answers. “She doesn’t live in the neighborhood, she doesn’t care,” Alvarez said. “She walked out the back door instead of listening to us. We’re the ones who got her elected, and now we’re invisible.”