SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — President Donald Trump's assertions that San Francisco is crime-ridden and in need of federal assistance, including National Guard troops, have been firmly refuted by the city's local and state leaders. They stress that crime rates are actually declining and that the city is seeing a revitalization as it emerges from the pandemic.
Mayor Daniel Lurie emphasized last week, This is a safe American city. We got this in San Francisco. Residents have expressed confusion over Trump's threats, citing the city's restoration and positive trajectory.
Trump has invoked crime statistics as justification for the potential deployment of troops, referencing earlier interventions in cities like Washington, D.C. and Memphis. His comments regarding San Francisco seem to rely on outdated perceptions that do not align with the current reality.
While some areas continue to struggle with public drug use, city officials note a marked improvement overall, including a significant reduction in crime rates. San Francisco has shown a 21% increase in office visits and a resurgence in public transit usage, indicating a shift away from the dire conditions depicted previously.
Local leaders, including Mayor Lurie, have made it clear that the National Guard would not effectively address the root causes of drug-related crime and have welcomed other forms of assistance aimed at intervention without militarization.
California's Governor Gavin Newsom has pledged to fiercely oppose any federal troop deployment, stressing state sovereignty and the need for coherent responses to urban challenges rather than chaos. Citizens like retired nurse Libby Baxter are wary of Trump's approach, fearing that federal intervention could lead to unnecessary tension in the community.
Overall, San Francisco stands firm in its assertions of safety and recovery, showcasing resilience in the face of external pressures.
