California Governor Gavin Newsom's approach to homelessness is facing renewed scrutiny following a recent federal report. Republican leaders are criticizing Newsom's handling of the crisis, pointing to a 3% rise in homelessness in the state, bringing the total to 187,000. State Senate Minority Leader Brian Jones questioned the effectiveness of the $24 billion allocated to local governments for homelessness programs, citing the report as evidence that the situation has worsened. Newsom's office countered these claims, emphasizing that the funds are accounted for and that new accountability measures are in place. They also highlighted that the state's rate of increase in unsheltered homelessness is lower than during the previous administration.
The debate intensified after an op-ed in CalMatters criticized Newsom's record on homelessness, predicting it could become a vulnerability in a potential 2028 presidential bid. Newsom's office responded defensively, arguing that the critique lacked context and failed to acknowledge the state's efforts compared to previous years. They pointed to initiatives like Prop 1, CARE Court, and conservatorship reform as long-term solutions that are still being implemented. Newsom also emphasized that California's overall homelessness increase is lower than the national average and that other large states have experienced greater increases in unsheltered homelessness.
While Newsom maintains that California is making progress, Assembly Republicans argue that any increase in homelessness signifies failure. Jones has advocated for a different approach, proposing legislation focused on "compassionate enforcement" of encampment violations, which unfortunately did not advance. Newsom, however, insists that the state's plan is working and producing positive results, despite the ongoing challenges. He reiterated his commitment to addressing homelessness and expressed confidence in California's strategies.
