A former Democratic official instrumental in Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's initial congressional victory has criticized the representative for allegedly neglecting her Queens constituency. Ramon Ramirez Baez, an author and former Democratic committee member for the 39th Assembly District, expressed his disappointment to Fox News Digital, claiming Ocasio-Cortez has become absent and unresponsive to the needs of the community she represents.

Baez, who played a key role in connecting Ocasio-Cortez with local business owners and organizing campaign events, including a pivotal debate, alleges that the congresswoman has distanced herself from the residents of Corona, Jackson Heights, and Elmhurst since her 2018 election. He claims Ocasio-Cortez has not been visible in the community and has failed to address pressing issues like rising crime rates, including open-air prostitution and other illegal activities that have plagued Roosevelt Avenue.

Baez expressed concern about Ocasio-Cortez's perceived lack of accessibility, noting difficulties constituents face in contacting her local office. He contrasted her current approach with her initial campaign promises of being a readily available representative, unlike her predecessor. He also criticized Ocasio-Cortez for prioritizing national political activities over local concerns, citing her travels to other states while neglecting the needs of her own district.

He further criticized her stance on immigration, linking it to the increase in illegal vendors and sex workers on Roosevelt Avenue, many of whom are migrants without work permits. He expressed regret for supporting her candidacy, stating he was unaware of her socialist leanings at the time and would not have endorsed her had he known.

Baez, who now supports increased police presence in the area, highlighted Ocasio-Cortez's alleged inaction in addressing the community's concerns regarding rising crime. He mentioned a recent open letter he wrote to the congresswoman detailing these issues, but claimed he has yet to receive a response. He urged Ocasio-Cortez to focus on the needs of her constituents and to address the negative impact of her policies on the community.