Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s New York district recently came into the spotlight following the release of a video that shows heavily littered streets, unlicensed street vending and prostitutes.

The footage, captured by Queens resident Ramses Frias — a former Democrat who is running for the Assembly District 39 seat as a Republican — highlights portions of the neighborhoods of Corona, Jackson Heights and Elmhurst that are overflowing with trash and where makeshift flea markets have been established.

In the video, various individuals are seen selling clothing and other items on the streets. Particularly notable is Roosevelt Avenue, which according to viral videos, has been associated with street vending and alleged prostitution.

“I have lived here my whole life, I’ve seen the changes go from good, too bad to worse, and it’s at that peak of worse right now, and I don’t want it to go past that,” Mr. Frías said, according to Fox News.

On prostitution, Mr. Frias said, “They do whatever they please, they are open about it and not discreet. They line up all along 90th Street in front of a pizzeria, a 99-cent store and just try to pull men. You’ll see multiple women in scantily clad clothing.”

In January, the New York Police Department raided six establishments allegedly engaged in prostitution.

“Among these legal businesses, you have these single beds — it is clear what is taking place there and this is really bringing down the quality of life of this community and anyone who says this is a victimless crime, just really needs to see the inhumane conditions,” New York City Mayor Eric Adams said at the time. “Sex trafficking is real … and we’re not going to sit idly by and pretend that it’s not happening.”

Mr. Frias likened the condition of the streets to that of a “Third World market” and voiced concerns over the impact these unauthorized vendors have on local businesses. The vendors often set up their stalls directly outside established stores, without paying taxes or facing any legal consequences, hence affecting the trade of tax-paying, brick-and-mortar establishments, he said.

“I love the hustle of the immigrants in this neighborhood, but people cannot just do as they please, and the area has effectively deteriorated into an open flea market,” Mr. Frias said.

The footage, recorded near the borders of what constitutes the 14th Congressional District — represented by Ms. Ocasio-Cortez, a Democrat — is part of a region known for its cultural diversity in Queens. It shows rows of vendors along sidewalks with piles of clothes and other goods for sale, ranging from sneakers to toys.