The New York Post editorial board has issued a scathing critique of Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.), holding her partially responsible for the high cost of living in New York City, which is pushing out working-class residents. In a recent town hall, Ocasio-Cortez acknowledged the affordability crisis in the city, noting that it’s the working class, not the wealthy, who are increasingly unable to afford living in New York.
The Post editorial argues that the very policies Ocasio-Cortez champions are contributing to the city’s high living expenses. They point to her support for progressive policies such as open immigration, which they claim has added financial strain to the city. The editorial cites the significant costs incurred by the city to accommodate the influx of migrants, estimated to exceed $12 billion by fiscal 2025.
The board also criticizes the city’s housing policies, noting that a significant portion of New Yorkers are burdened with rents consuming over half of their income. They argue that progressive calls for more rent control exacerbate the problem by limiting available housing. Specifically, they mention the halting of the 421a tax break for developers and the 2019 Tenant Protection Act as key factors in reducing housing availability and driving up costs.
Further, the editorial board attacks Ocasio-Cortez’s climate change agenda, suggesting that it contributes to soaring energy prices for New Yorkers. They also denounce progressive criminal justice reforms, which they argue have led to increased retail theft and financial losses for businesses.
Finally, the Post criticizes Ocasio-Cortez’s proposed solution of taxing the rich, arguing that this approach is driving wealthy residents out of the state and city, further exacerbating fiscal challenges. They conclude by warning that if progressive ideologies continue to dominate New York’s policies, the city will become increasingly unaffordable, accelerating the exodus of residents.