East New York strongly prioritizes diverse representation, sometimes at the expense of natural character development. Protagonists are frequently defined by identity factors, with plotlines that can feel formulaically built around political and social themes. Merit and realism occasionally take a back seat to social commentary, which can undercut narrative tension and nuance.

Traditional family, masculine roles, and historical cultural norms are generally sidelined or depicted as outdated. Themes of masculinity, hierarchy, and law enforcement are frequently critiqued or subverted, tilting the balance toward modern ideological values over established traditions or social mores.

Traditional or dissenting viewpoints are rarely depicted with depth; characters challenging the show's preferred morality are often one-dimensional or villainized. The show leans heavily into a uniform, progressive worldview, offering little genuine debate or ideological variety among its cast.