After the triumph of two law-and-order ballot measures in San Francisco on Tuesday, an article in the San Francisco Chronicle questioned the city’s progressive reputation, asserting that the election results signal a shift in popular sentiment away from progressive policies.
According to Chronicle reporters Aldo Toledo and Joe Garofoli, the approval of Proposition F and Proposition E signifies a departure from the city’s traditionally progressive stance. Proposition F mandates drug screening for individuals receiving public benefits and mandates addiction treatment for those seeking to continue receiving assistance. Meanwhile, Proposition E grants law enforcement enhanced surveillance tools and relaxes oversight, allowing for looser restrictions on activities like car chases.
In addition to the ballot measures, voters elected a slate of moderates to lead the local Democratic County Central Committee, a move that could influence future elections in San Francisco. Supervisor candidate Marjan Philhour, described as a moderate, criticized the DCCC, previously led by progressives, for being disconnected from everyday Democrats in the city.
The article highlights divisions among progressives regarding strategies to regain power and concerns about being overshadowed by moderates with substantial financial backing. Steven Buss, co-founder of the moderate advocacy group “Grow SF,” condemned progressives, declaring it was time for the city to move past their leadership.
The article notes growing discontent among San Francisco residents due to rising crime and homelessness, which has prompted businesses like Nordstrom and Macy’s to close stores in the area. Mayor London Breed, who proposed the ballot measures, acknowledges public frustration, particularly following the recall of District Attorney Chesa Boudin in 2022 for his perceived leniency on crime.
Despite setbacks, some progressives remain optimistic about future elections, viewing November’s mayoral race as a better gauge of the city’s progressive values. However, the article underscores the need for progressives to offer viable solutions to pressing issues like public safety, housing, homelessness, and substance abuse.
Ultimately, the Chronicle suggests that while progressives are grappling with internal challenges, moderates are gaining momentum, posing a significant challenge to progressive ideals in San Francisco.