On May 1, 2026, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) finds herself in the spotlight as her campaign faces scrutiny for spending nearly $19,000 on psychiatrist Dr. Brian Boyle, who specializes in controversial ketamine therapy. This development coincides with AOC’s public outrage over the reinstatement of ICE agent Jonathan Ross, who fatally shot local resident Renee Good.
AOC’s campaign raised a remarkable $4.1 million last quarter, bringing its total contributions for the 2026 election cycle to $28.9 million. The funds spent on Dr. Boyle have raised ethical questions among her contributors and the public alike.
Dr. Boyle’s practice focuses on ketamine therapy, a treatment that has drawn both attention and criticism in recent years. Critics argue that this expenditure is not aligned with typical campaign needs or expertise.
AOC expressed her concern regarding the reinstatement of Jonathan Ross, stating, “God forbid, every single American, every single person that that man encounters from his reinstatement on is in just great danger as she was in.” Ross had been placed on three days of administrative leave following the incident involving Good.
Kathy Hochul, New York’s governor, has also weighed in, formally requesting confirmation that Ross has not been reassigned to work in New York State. Her statement reflects widespread concern over public safety and accountability.
Amidst this turmoil, AOC’s community initiatives continue to shine; her campaign’s student film “John Wish” recently won two awards at the Film Prize Junior Festival—specifically the Founder’s Circle Award and the Audience Choice Award for Best Movie Poster. Voting for these awards remains open until May 7.
Paul Kamenar, a political analyst, commented on AOC’s financial decisions: “AOC needs to come clean and explain to her contributors and the FEC why she spent almost $24,000 of campaign funds on a Boston psychiatrist who specializes in ketamine therapy and has no expertise in political campaigns.” This scrutiny adds pressure to AOC during an already challenging time.
The community remains divided as they navigate these developments. While some rally behind AOC’s initiatives and condemn the actions of Ross, others demand transparency regarding her campaign finances and expenditures.
