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Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D) defended her defund the police statement Thursday night during a virtual town hall.
Although Republicans have largely weaponized the “defund the police” mantra to make their Democratic opponents appear “anti-cop” with a soft on crime approach, Cortez stands by her support of the defunding movement.
However, Fox News reports that Democratic leaders have been vocal on two major issues linked to Cortez—her defunding the police and socialism stance—which they believe are to blame for the Democratic losses in the House races last week. Among those losses was the win of Republican Nicole Malliotakis over first0term Democratic Rep. Max Rose in New York.
When asked by a 14-year-old virtual town hall attendee what she meant by defunding the police, Cortez stood firm on her stance. Apparently, her stance did not cost her her reelection for a second term she easily won last week in the 14th District of Bronx and Queens.
Regardless of how angry some critics are over the idea of defunding the police, Cortez believes that the New York Police Department’s budget of $6 billion is too high and therefore takes away at preventive safety measures that could help the state—mental health workers and school guidance counselors. A budget of this amount is not properly checked in her opinion and therefore “becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy” that leaves no room for spending on other needs like housing and healthcare.
“I believe the path toward justice is a long arc. Safety is not just an officer with a badge and a gun,” the congresswoman said.“Our [police budget] is too high,” she added.
Cortez seems genuine in her agenda, saying it is her job to listen and invest in other safety measures. For this, she has been harshly criticized by others who blame her for the Democratic losses in the House.
“I feel very centered and at peace. This is what you brought me to Congress to do,” AOC said. Adding that she doesn’t just hold Republicans at fault, but “all institutions accountable, and that includes the Democratic Party.” This will include President-elect Joe Biden.
