"Apathy over Achievement"

State Representative Angel Cruz likes to credit himself as an elected official that serves on behalf of the constituents of the 180th District, or so he would lead one to believe. Perhaps this is the reason he is consistently re-elected. However, to be blunt, that assessment is simply not true.

The fact is, Representative Cruz wins because of "community apathy." In 2010's general election for example, a total of just 11,000 residents out of 60,000 voted for Mr. Cruz slightly edging Jonathan Ramos. Mr. Cruz has never created a plan--any plan for that matter, that would re-invigorate the community that has witnessed better days; nor has he served the role of an elected official with integrity and honesty to the very residents of the 180th District he supposedly pledges allegiance to.

Where was Representative Cruz in attempting to secure an additional traffic light and lane change placed at G. Street and Wyoming Avenue that would prevent accidents and fatalities to drivers and pedestrians, even though his offices were contacted to assist in this effort initiated by the "180th Watchdog Coalition" and Councilwoman Quinones-Sanchez? Where is Mr. Cruz in implementing after school programs in schools located in the 180th District that are in dire need? What initiatives has Mr. Cruz created for educational opportunities where less than 50% of his constituents in the 180th District do not possess a high school diploma or a GED, while less than 20% have obtained a college degree?

At this point, Mr. Cruz has gambled his political career on the apathetic behavior in the 180th District and sadly--it has paid him immense dividends.

The residents of the 180th District must awaken from their "long slumber of apathy" and reclaim the community; returning to a once vibrant and productive neighborhood. Only then will Mr. Cruz's political career at long last be vanquished.


"Progressives will bring balance to the Republic"
Anthony P. Johnson, Candidate for State Rep. 180th District, 2012