Trump's Homelessness Crackdown Ignites Fury Among Democrats
Trump’s order to clear homeless encampments draws sharp criticism.
President Donald Trump’s recent executive order targeting homelessness, which pushes for removing people from streets and potentially forcing them into mental health or drug treatment, has drawn fierce criticism from Democrats and homeless advocates. The order prioritizes funding for cities enforcing bans on open drug use and street camping, aiming to restore public safety.
The order claims that institutionalizing individuals is a proven way to address public disorder, but critics argue it’s vague and punitive. Homelessness has surged amid rising housing costs, particularly in states like California, compounded by widespread fentanyl addiction. Trump’s directive appears to target liberal cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, and New York, which he accuses of being too lenient.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom, whose state has already implemented encampment bans following a U.S. Supreme Court ruling, dismissed the order as relying on harmful stereotypes. “It’s more about creating headlines than solving problems,” said Newsom’s spokesperson, Tara Gallegos, noting similarities to California’s existing policies. San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie and San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan have also pushed for stricter measures, like banning RV camping and jailing those who repeatedly refuse shelter.
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However, advocates like Steve Berg of the National Alliance to End Homelessness argue that forced institutionalization is costly, raises ethical issues, and fails to address root causes. “Locking people up isn’t the answer,” Berg said. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, a Democrat, emphasized collaborative approaches, stating, “Punitive sweeps or jail time won’t solve homelessness.”
Supporters, like Devon Kurtz of the conservative Cicero Institute, praise the order for reinforcing California’s shift toward stricter policies. “It sends a clear message to hesitant communities,” Kurtz said. As the debate intensifies, the order underscores deep divisions over how to address one of America’s most pressing social crises.
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