In a recent editorial, Lucy Biggers, a one-time advocate for Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), openly criticized NYC mayoral hopeful Zohran Mamdani and his socialist agenda, as Fox News reports.

Biggers argues that Mamdani's sweeping promises of free services represent an unrealistic approach for the city.

Currently a social media editor at The Free Press and former correspondent for NowThis, Biggers drew from her own experiences to assess Mamdani's platform.

She discussed transitioning from a supporter of bold government interventions to questioning their viability as she navigated personal changes, such as motherhood and homeownership.

From support to skepticism

Mamdani, the winner of the Democratic Party mayoral primary and a candidate known for his socialist viewpoints, has garnered attention with promises like free bus rides and government-operated grocery stores.

However, Biggers compares these plans to her experiences at inefficient government agencies, notably using the DMV as an example of potential inefficiencies in state-run services.

During her time with NowThis, Biggers produced content featuring Ocasio-Cortez, whose candidacy similarly energized young voters and pushed for broad governmental overhauls.

She recalls being captivated by Ocasio-Cortez’s charisma and clarity of vision, elements that initially drew her to support such political figures.

Yet, with time and changes in her personal life, Biggers’ perspective shifted significantly, leading her to reconsider the practicality of extensive government programs.

Assessing the feasibility of Mamdani's promises

In public statements, Biggers has voiced concerns over Mamdani's approach, specifically criticizing the feasibility of his proposals. She highlighted issues with "free" services, arguing that they mask the true costs involved, such as increased taxes and a more centralized governmental structure.

"His promise of free bus rides, free childcare, and government-run grocery stores, echoing the rhetoric of past political campaigns, drew my skepticism," Biggers shared in her op-ed, hinting at her past enthusiasm for AOC that has since waned.

According to Biggers, the allure of such policies often overlooks their long-term implications, including higher living expenses and more government control, which she believes could ultimately harm those they’re meant to help.

Impact on younger generations assessed

Biggers also critiqued the narrative that government intervention is the sole solution to societal issues, reflected in Mamdani’s campaign rhetoric. She mentioned how this viewpoint could mislead young people, who might not fully appreciate the complexities of economic policies.

"They have been mistakenly taught that our capitalist society is the source of all of their problems and that the only way to fix it is with more government spending," said Biggers. She stressed the importance of understanding that nothing is genuinely "free" and that such programs come at a considerable cost.

This narrative, according to Biggers, feeds into a cycle of dependency and disillusionment, especially among the youth swayed by idealistic campaigns lacking pragmatic foundations.

Political charisma vs. real-world challenges

In reflecting on her interactions with AOC, Biggers recalled the excitement and hope that initially surrounded her campaign. "The final video of AOC published to our followers showcased a vibrant leader full of conviction," she recounted.

However, Biggers now views such charismatic approaches with caution, advocating for a more balanced perspective that considers the economic and administrative realities of implementing expansive governmental programs.

The editorial penned by Biggers in The Free Press has ignited discussions on the feasibility and desirability of socialist policies in modern urban governance, demonstrating a significant shift in her political philosophy influenced by personal life experiences.