National Review's Radio Free California Podcast Episode 414: Did the New York Times Just End Scott Wiener?
Oct 28, 2025
Lance Christensen, Vice President of Government Affairs and Education Policy at the California Policy Center, dives into the tumultuous political landscape surrounding Scott Wiener’s Safer Streets for All Act and its unforeseen consequences linked to child sex trafficking. They discuss the plethora of new bills signed into law by Governor Newsom, highlighting issues of regulatory bloat and public safety. The conversation also touches on California's approach to education reforms, AI regulation, and the implications of using the National Guard for civic duties.
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Law Change Tied To Street Sex Trafficking
- Scott Wiener's SB 357 decriminalized loitering with intent to engage in prostitution and is linked to rising child sex trafficking in parts of California.
- Will Swaim argues the law hampered vice arrests and helped traffickers exploit minors on streets like Figueroa.
Demand, Broken Families, And Enforcement Gaps
- Hosts link trafficking's growth to persistent demand, family breakdown, and insufficient left‑wing policy responses.
- They argue policing and judicial deterrence must be restored to combat violent traffickers.
Anna On Figueroa: A Victim's Night
- Will recounts Anna, a young street sex worker with missing teeth and an ostomy bag, illustrating extreme victimization.
- He describes pimps beating girls and openly taunting police who cannot arrest the minors.