The New York City office of progressive congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez was vandalised overnight, with windows smashed and graffiti scrawled across the building in what appears to be a politically motivated attack.
Police were called to the Jackson Heights district office early Tuesday morning after reports of property damage. Officers found multiple windows shattered and offensive graffiti targeting the high-profile Democrat.
Growing Political Tensions
This incident comes amid heightened political tensions in the US, with progressive figures like Ocasio-Cortez frequently facing threats and harassment. The congresswoman has been an outspoken advocate for progressive policies including the Green New Deal and Medicare for All.
"This kind of violence has no place in our democracy," said a spokesperson for Ocasio-Cortez. "We're grateful no staff were present at the time and are cooperating fully with law enforcement."
Security Concerns for Progressive Politicians
The vandalism follows a worrying trend of increasing threats against progressive politicians in America. Security experts note that female politicians and those from minority backgrounds often face disproportionate levels of harassment.
Local community leaders have condemned the attack, with Queens Borough President Donovan Richards calling it "an assault on our democratic values."
The NYPD has launched an investigation and is reviewing security footage from the area. No arrests have been made yet, but authorities are treating the incident as potentially politically motivated.
