Ocasio-Cortez’s Garbage Can Initiative Draws Criticism

Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez recently celebrated the addition of new trash cans along Roosevelt Avenue in Queens through social media.

However, many feel she overlooked more pressing issues.

Critics quickly pointed out the ongoing problems in the area, specifically the notorious “lovers’ market,” which features a visible presence of sex workers, alongside the related issues of Johns and pimps.

“Celebrating new trash cans feels a bit like icing a cake made of… well, something unpleasant,” remarked Ramses Frias, a Republican candidate for City Council in Queens. “It all seems a bit performative.”

“AOC seems to avoid addressing the real problems here just to maintain the image that her district is perfect,” Frias added.

As a member of the Democratic Socialists and the “Squad,” Ocasio-Cortez had previously discussed her initiative against litter earlier this month.

She announced on August 8, “After speaking with local vendors and business owners, my office reached out to the New York City Department of Sanitation about needing more trash cans along Roosevelt Avenue. Thanks to their quick action, 51 new trash cans have been placed! We appreciate their partnership in keeping our neighborhood clean!”

“Is this really the main issue on Roosevelt Avenue?” John Lomonaco questioned on Facebook.

Local residents have consistently criticized Ocasio-Cortez for not taking action against rampant crime and prostitution in the area.

Community members along Roosevelt Avenue are calling for assistance to combat street prostitution and the surge in illegal vendors, which some attribute to local gangs taking advantage of the urban immigration situation.

They have even urged federal authorities like the FBI to investigate potential ties between the street market and organized crime.

“Honestly, I don’t think I’ve ever seen Ocasio-Cortez since she took office. I only remember seeing her at a parade,” said Rosa Sanchez, president of the Restore Roosevelt Avenue Coalition, during the summer.

While Ocasio-Cortez has previously expressed support for decriminalizing sex work, the city’s Department of Health clarified that they only replaced 48 missing garbage bins along Roosevelt Avenue, not 51 as claimed, as part of routine maintenance.

“Unfortunately, garbage bins can get damaged and worn out,” stated a spokesperson from the department.

Residents are already skeptical about the impact of the new trash cans.

“We really need more workers, or overtime for existing staff to manage this issue,” John McGarry voiced on Facebook, sharing images of overflowing bins from this month.

Ocasio-Cortez’s office has defended the initiative, emphasizing that the business community expressed strong need for additional trash cans.