San Francisco Mayor London Breed has recently implemented a new crackdown on people sleeping outside in an effort to clear the city’s sidewalks of homeless encampments. However, her four challengers in the upcoming election, all of whom are Democrats, argue that she has not effectively handled the homelessness crisis. While the number of temporary structures has decreased over the past year, the crisis remains a significant issue in the city.
The homelessness crisis in major U.S. cities, particularly in the West, has been exacerbated by high housing costs and the COVID-19 pandemic. Thousands of individuals are without a place to live, and for many residents, this has become a significant quality-of-life concern and a prime political issue. Most big-city mayors and candidates agree that there is a need for more affordable housing and additional services for those experiencing homelessness. However, the debate centers around whether it is acceptable to force individuals off the streets.
Many challengers are emphasizing the need for a stronger approach to the homelessness crisis in their races against incumbents who won by a wide margin four years ago. Larry Turner, a police officer, is challenging San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria, who is overemphasizing temporary housing. In Phoenix, Matt Evans is arguing that incumbent Kate Gallego hasn’t done enough to enforce laws and clear encampments. Elections could turn on the issue, and the situation on the streets can change depending on who is elected.
Mayors can make a significant difference in addressing the homelessness crisis, but arresting or fining individuals who don’t have a place to live is not a solution. Some new mayors, such as Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, have made progress in decreasing homelessness numbers without relying on penalties. However, in other cities, such as Portland, tougher city ordinances have been put in place, allowing officials to fine or even jail homeless individuals who reject an offer of shelter.
San Francisco Mayor Breed has added thousands of temporary and more permanent shelter beds, but there is still a significant shortage. Her opponents have proposed building additional shelters, but they have not offered specific locations or plans for funding. Meanwhile, homeless people often reject offers of shelter if it means giving up their belongings or pets, being separated from significant others, or sleeping in unfamiliar places.
In short, while the homelessness crisis continues to plague major U.S. cities, especially those in the West, debates about how to address it have become a central issue in mayoral elections. While some mayors have successfully tackled the crisis, others have implemented new policies that have raised concerns about criminalizing homelessness. Ultimately, a long-term solution will require a multifaceted approach, including affordable housing, additional services for individuals experiencing homelessness, and compassionate policies that prioritize the needs of homeless individuals.