By: Jared Evan

A Republican real estate developer, who fled war-torn Kosovo as a child, believes his life story and success embody a version of the American dream starkly at odds with the vision of Democratic socialist Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Diamant Hysenaj, a 42-year-old Albanian immigrant and president of the construction firm DCG New York, has declared his candidacy to represent New York’s 14th Congressional District, which encompasses parts of the Bronx and Queens.

“I came here as a young kid and had to make my way in a tough neighborhood in the Bronx,” Hysenaj said in an interview. “My life could have gone another direction, but I worked hard, tried to fit in as best I could as an outsider, and achieved the American dream: a successful business, a beautiful family, and a calling to serve.”

Hysenaj, who built his business across boroughs like the Bronx and Queens, says his immigrant story is deeply relatable in NY-14, where over 50% of residents are immigrants. “I know what it means to struggle and start from nothing. Meanwhile, AOC jets off to lecture the country on socialism while ignoring the real needs of the people here,” he said.

A Story of Resilience

Born on a farm in Kosovo in 1982, Hysenaj recalls an idyllic childhood disrupted by the tightening grip of a dictator in 1991. His family fled with little more than hope, eventually landing in the Bronx, where Hysenaj encountered gangs and harsh streets. “No welfare, just work,” he noted, describing the resilience that shaped his journey.

After earning an associate degree from SUNY Westchester Community College, Hysenaj found his passion in real estate, launching DCG New York. Overcoming setbacks like the 2008 Great Recession and personal tragedies, including the loss of his sister, he rebuilt his life and business. “I’ve hired hundreds and made this city my canvas,” he said, underscoring his contributions to local communities.

But Hysenaj argues that the city he’s helped build is now eroding under progressive policies. “The American dream is alive and well, but not in AOC’s New York. She’s more interested in chasing national fame than fixing the decaying infrastructure or unsafe streets in our district,” he said.

AOC’s Popularity and Criticism

Ocasio-Cortez, first elected in 2018, is seeking re-election in 2026 in what remains an overwhelmingly Democratic district. Despite her dominance in local and national politics, critics like Hysenaj argue she’s lost touch with her constituents. “She’s made a name for herself promoting socialism and endorsing candidates like Zohran Mamdani, but where’s the action on making life better for the working-class families here?” Hysenaj asked.

Hysenaj’s criticisms echo growing frustrations among some district residents over rising crime, failing infrastructure, and a lack of economic opportunity. He positions himself as a candidate focused on pragmatic solutions: safer streets, immigration reform, and better infrastructure.

A Long-Shot Campaign

While Hysenaj faces an uphill battle in a district that heavily favors Democrats, he remains optimistic. “I am fighting for a country where every voice matters, not just the privileged elite,” he said. “With the help of the great people of this district, we will win.”

Ocasio-Cortez, however, appears politically unshaken. Riding high on the recent Democratic primary victory of Mamdani, whom she endorsed for mayor, her future ambitions include a potential Senate run against Chuck Schumer or even a bid for the presidency in 2028.