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Christopher F. Rufo joins City Journal editor Brian Anderson to discuss an urban struggle with street homelessness and the political fight around it in the Pacific Northwest’s largest city.
Known as the “Emerald City” because its surrounding areas are filled with greenery year-round, Seattle has recently seen an explosion of homelessness, crime, and drug addiction. Municipal cleanup crews pick up tens of thousands of dirty needles from the streets, and tent-villages have become a regular presence.
Seattle’s political debate on the question has been maddening: city officials who propose practical solutions to remove individuals or encampments arouse fierce opposition from progressive activists. Ultimately, courageous political leadership will be needed if the city is to solve its homelessness crisis.
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Thanks for this discusssion – I think. As with Portland, at present, the ‘homeless problem’ seems hopeless. I appreciate Mr. Rufo’s recommendations and insights. I remember reading about the attacks on him when he tried to run for office. Again, makes it seem hopeless but I will try not to be.
Also, this makes me think of the problems that have stemmed from public sector unions. Most people probably just thought these unions would be like the ones that came before but instead they have really changed local, state, and federal government and the bureaucracy. That problem is mostly hidden while the homeless are for all to see. Perhaps people will try to tackle the homeless problem rather than letting it get worse and worse?