The rift between Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) and the New York City Police Department (NYPD) deepened on Thursday as top police officials fired back at the congresswoman for her recent comments demonizing their response to anti-Semitic protests on Columbia University’s campus.
In a video posted on social media, AOC accused Columbia University of mobilizing the “most violent” NYPD units to intimidate students and handle the situation on their own campus. She claimed these units have a “violent reputation” and were promised not to be deployed to protests.
NYPD’s Chief of Patrol, John Chell, responded, calling her comments “truly amazing” and challenging her stance. He pointed out that students must be held accountable for their actions and that these law enforcement officers were simply doing their jobs in maintaining the peace and protecting the rights of all individuals.
Not only did Columbia make the horrific decision to mobilize NYPD on their own students, but the units called in have some of the most violent reputations on the force.
NYPD had promised the city they wouldn’t deploy SRG to protests.
So why are these counterterror units here? https://t.co/nfDVfueNSz
— Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@AOC) April 24, 2024
Deputy Commissioner Kaz Daughtry also weighed in, reminding AOC that while protests are a constitutional right, they do not give anyone a free pass to engage in criminal conduct, including hate speech and threatening behavior. He also encouraged her to visit the campus and see for herself the “pure hatred” being directed at the students.
These statements from top NYPD officials reflect the frustration felt by many law enforcement officers who often have to endure insults, threats, and hate speech in the line of duty. They reminded AOC and the public of their dedication to protecting all individuals, regardless of their political beliefs.
It should also be noted that AOC herself, as a member of Congress, is protected by these same law enforcement officers. They will always do their job and protect her, as they do for all New Yorkers, 24/7/365.
“Laws of the school?”
That’s not a thing.The inaccuracy of what constitutes a law in your statement is highly concerning, considering it is law enforcement putting their hands on kids.
NYPD promised to not call counterterror SRG units on protests.
It’s time to keep your word. https://t.co/QHiQTQSHA7
— Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@AOC) April 25, 2024
Ultimately, the clash between AOC and the NYPD highlights a more significant issue of the growing divide between law enforcement and confident political leaders who regularly criticize and demonize their actions. The NYPD has made it clear that they will not tolerate hate speech and threats towards anyone, and their presence on Columbia’s campus was necessary to ensure the safety of all individuals.
