On October 20th, Curtis Sliwa, the Republican candidate for New York City Mayor and founder of the Guardian Angels, joined Philip Wang and Kenneth Paek—candidates for the New York State Assembly from the 40th and 25th districts, respectively—at a rally in front of the Flushing Library. The trio called for urgent action to combat the growing issue of prostitution, emphasizing the need to improve safety and quality of life in Flushing and surrounding areas.

Sliwa highlighted the deteriorating community environment in Flushing due to prostitution and other criminal activities, which he believes have negatively impacted the residents’ quality of life and had adverse effects on families and children. He pointed out that, although Governor Kathy Hochul and the NYPD have initiated a 90-day action plan along Roosevelt Avenue, its actual impact remains to be seen.

Wang expressed strong opposition to a recent proposal supported by some Queens representatives to decriminalize prostitution. He criticized the bail reform passed in 2019, which allows minor offenders to be released immediately after arrest, exacerbating chaotic conditions in the community. He warned that both the commercial and residential areas of Flushing are transforming into a red-light district, severely affecting the local residents and businesses.

Wang urged women involved in prostitution to seek other employment opportunities, stating, “If there are no customers, please find another job and don’t stay in Flushing. Now, places like Flushing, Corona, and Jackson Heights have become streets for prostitution; these areas are the prime spots for finding sex services.”

Paek called on voters to support conservative candidates to unite against crime and prostitution, asserting that only by electing the right candidates can real change be achieved.

At the end of the rally, Sliwa reiterated his call for voters to not support the current mayor, Eric Adams. He criticized Adams’ policies for failing to improve public safety, further worsening the situation. Sliwa announced his intention to run for mayor again, promising that if elected, he would restore law and order and ensure a safe living environment for New Yorkers.