Once again, the ineptitude of progressive politicians is on full display in the district represented by Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. The NYPD recently had to step in and conduct a raid on an illegal open-air flea market in the Queens neighborhoods of Jackson Heights, Corona and Elmhurst.
These vendors were not just selling counterfeit goods, but were also causing obstruction on sidewalks. As NYPD Deputy Commissioner of Operations Kaz Daughtry wrote, “Now you see it… now you don’t,” referring to their swift action against these unlicensed peddlers.
Ignoring community concerns, these vendors returned to the streets only days later. Local residents have been forced to deal with unsanitary conditions and unsafe environments due to the rampant illegal activities, including prostitution.
Assembly candidate Ramses Frías said, “If there isn’t a consistent police presence and/or team set in place to educate these illegal vendors then this will all continue.” He further criticized Ocasio-Cortez and other representatives for their constant neglect and indifference towards these communities.
While some city council members have taken a stand against these illegal vendors, one even partnering with the mayor for a separate raid on brothels, it’s clear that more needs to be done. The mayor has attributed this issue partly to migrants being unable to work legally, yet another example of failed progressive policies.
Council Member Moya, a Democrat, expressed his frustration saying, “The number one complaint to my office is the congestion and garbage caused by illegal street vendors. Mothers can’t push their strollers through our sidewalks, businesses are being robbed and undercut steps from their doors and residents are being put at risk from unsafe food handling. Enough is enough.”
Despite this outcry, the problem persists. The city’s inability to provide productive solutions for migrants has led to an increase in illegal activities such as street vending and sex trafficking. As Adams said, “Some of the problems we’re facing in our city, this is the byproduct of bringing thousands of people to a city and telling them they cannot work… this is what we’re seeing.”
Source: State of the Union
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