Bronx and Queens residents question AOC's local focus

Constituents in New York's Bronx and Queens districts are voicing concerns over Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's perceived lack of attention to local affairs, accusing her of prioritizing national initiatives over the needs of her community.

Residents in Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s district express dissatisfaction with what they perceive as her focus on national ambitions at the expense of local concerns, the New York Post reported.

Frustration is mounting as residents grapple with limited access to Ocasio-Cortez's district offices. Inadequate availability at these offices, one of which is open for just a single weekday while the other closes on Fridays, has left many constituents feeling overlooked. Attempting to reach these offices often means facing unanswered phone calls and having to make prior appointments—a process that discourages engagement.

Constituents Express Difficulty Reaching Offices

The difficulty of contacting her district offices is compounded by the erratic schedule of town hall meetings that Rep. Ocasio-Cortez conducts. Once held monthly, these town halls have become sporadic and are sometimes only available through telephone calls. A recent town hall event in Jackson Heights was cut short to under an hour; the Congresswoman left for another engagement soon after.

Those in the district are growing increasingly impatient with Ocasio-Cortez’s frequent focus on national matters and potential presidential ambitions. These priorities, according to local critics, detract from her ability to address urgent local issues. Her significant campaign fundraising and travel expenses have not gone unnoticed, fueling perceptions that she is more invested in her national profile than local service.

One sore point among residents is the proposed $8 billion casino development near Citi Field. Many believe Ocasio-Cortez’s response to local issues like this has been lackluster. Some claim there was little effort made on her part when federal funds for climate projects were unexpectedly canceled. This perceived inaction contrasts with her visible engagement during crises outside of New York, such as the Texas winter storm.

Critics Raise Concerns Over $8 Billion Casino Proposal

Local figures like Councilman Robert Holden point to Ocasio-Cortez's actions—or lack thereof—as evidential of her disconnect from the district's daily needs. He argues that she has neglected basic constituent services in favor of larger-scale political aims.

Constituents have also remarked on Ocasio-Cortez's attention to other states' emergencies while criticizing her inaction during New York's own challenges, such as Hurricane Ida. Several residents have voiced their dissatisfaction publicly, emphasizing a need for more substantial and consistent support from their elected representative.

The district office in Astoria, which operates only once a week and is shared with Queens Councilwoman Tiffany Caban, is another sign to some constituents of the limited local presence of their Congresswoman. There are claims of inadequate responsiveness to services that directly affect those living in the area.

Queens District Office Shared with Local Councilwoman

Lauro Vazquez, a local resident, expressed his disappointment by stating, "This woman has done nothing for the community she was once again elected to serve." His sentiment resonates with others who criticize her for the time spent on national travel and speculation about a potential presidential campaign.

Ocasio-Cortez's national and international engagements have provoked contrasting opinions about her effectiveness. Some perceive her as neglecting critical local projects in favor of reaching a broader audience and earning attention for causes beyond her district's geographic boundaries.

Supporters, however, contend that Ocasio-Cortez remains an active participant in community issues that matter. Mike Casca, a spokesperson for the Congresswoman, argues that "She is a constant presence in the district and deeply engaged with the issues that matter to her constituents," an assertion that captures another side of the ongoing debate.

Community members, like Aimee Rosato, remain skeptical, voicing apprehensions about projects such as the casino and advocating for more direct involvement. "I wish she did more. We don’t need a casino, it drives me a bit wild," Rosato commented, encapsulating the need for a stronger show of local commitment.

With residents split over the focus and priorities of Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the question remains whether her attention to national issues will ultimately serve or undermine her support within the district.