How Should Progressive Cities Face their Urban Crises?
Sep 23, 2024
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Nicholas Kristof, a columnist for the New York Times and former gubernatorial candidate in Oregon, discusses the challenges facing progressive cities. He argues that the issues of crime and homelessness aren’t failures of liberalism but rather specific to West Coast policies. The dialogue highlights the impact of historical housing policies on diverse communities and the need for strategic governance. Kristof, alongside urban leaders, emphasizes the necessity of effective community engagement and the importance of outcomes over intentions in addressing urban crises.
Progressive cities face challenges as rising crime and homelessness prompt demands for different governance approaches amid public frustration.
Experts agree that homelessness should be treated as a housing crisis, necessitating increased affordable housing production and prevention strategies.
The divide between moderate and progressive factions complicates governance, highlighting conflicting views on housing policies and the need for effective solutions.
Deep dives
Shift in Political Landscape
West Coast cities, known for their progressive politics, have recently seen a shift towards more conservative governance amid rising issues like crime and homelessness stemming from the pandemic. Urban areas such as San Francisco and Oakland, once strongholds of progressivism, are grappling with growing demands for change as the public becomes increasingly frustrated with existing policies. This dynamic is reflected in upcoming elections, particularly in San Francisco's mayoral race, where candidates are presenting diverse visions of how to address city problems. Ultimately, the movements in these cities raise critical questions about the effectiveness and durability of progressive governance in the face of mounting societal challenges.
Addressing Homelessness as a Housing Crisis
The discussion on homelessness highlights a consensus among experts that this issue should primarily be viewed as a housing crisis, emphasizing the critical shortage of affordable homes. In particular, the lack of housing production since the 1980s has contributed significantly to the current state of homelessness, as inadequate supply forces many into precarious living situations. Solutions favoring short-term assistance like emergency shelters could potentially be more beneficial than prolonged informal encampments, which do not address the root problem. Experts suggest focusing on prevention and interim housing solutions to mitigate homelessness effectively while expanding overall housing availability in affected regions.
Challenges in Implementing Progressive Policies
The difficulties in executing effective governmental policies are underscored by critics who argue that local governments often struggle with inefficiency and inadequate responses to the needs of constituents. The hesitance to make necessary changes within existing bureaucratic frameworks can stifle timely action on pressing issues, such as homelessness and public safety. This struggle highlights that public trust in government relies heavily on its competence and ability to deliver on progressive promises. Local officials must navigate complex regulations and allow for quicker decisions to rebuild credibility and ensure governmental interventions are successful.
Political Division within Local Governance
West Coast cities exhibit a notable division between moderate and progressive factions within the Democratic Party, particularly on crucial issues such as housing and homelessness. Experts suggest that while the progressive coalition remains significant, the growing prominence of moderate voices reflects an evolving political landscape influenced by unequal housing markets and visible homelessness. This ideological division complicates performance evaluation for elected officials, who often find themselves balancing coalition dynamics against constituents’ immediate demands for effective governance. Housing has emerged as a focal point for these political tensions, with differing opinions on zoning, development, and responsive policies shaping municipal debates.
Impact of Government Competence on Public Perception
Research suggests that the competence of local governments plays a crucial role in shaping public perceptions surrounding progressive policies and political outcomes. When elected officials are responsive and accountable, community trust strengthens, directly impacting their electoral success. However, instances of government inefficiency can lead to disillusionment and calls for a departure from progressive ideals, with voters perceiving a need for faster, tangible solutions. The challenge remains for local leaders to harness support by effectively communicating their plans and demonstrating successful government action in areas like housing and public safety.
The 2020 elections brought in a wave of progressive politicians from mayors to district attorneys. But many of those leaders were subjected to recalls or even ousted from office. In a piece for the New York Times, columnist Nicholas Kristof, who recently ran for governor of Oregon, offered this rejoinder to critics of liberals running cities struggling with rising crime and homelessness: “[T]he problem isn’t with liberalism. It’s with West Coast liberalism.” According to Kristof, in governance, progressives were valuing intentions over outcomes. As San Francisco prepares to elect its next mayor, and as Oakland decides whether to recall theirs, we launch a new Forum series examining progressive politics in our region. To kick off this series, we talk to experts about the state of progressive politics and hear from you: How do you feel about progressivism? What has it done right? What has it done wrong?
Guests:
Alicia John-Baptiste, president and CEO, SPUR
Jessica Trounstine, centennial chair and professor of political science, Vanderbilt University; author, "Segregation by Design: Local Politics and Inequality in American Cities" and "Political Monopolies in American Cities: The Rise and Fall of Bosses and Reformers."
Nithya Raman, urban planner, member of LA City Council, representing district 4
