Recent incidents involving prominent Democratic figures being victims of crime have raised concerns among voters in California, potentially impacting the upcoming November election.
According to a report by the Los Angeles Times, voters are increasingly worried about crime, particularly after incidents involving California Senate candidate Rep. Adam Schiff and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass being targeted by robbery and burglary, respectively.
Democratic strategist Darry Sragow highlighted the significance of these events, stating, “Adam Schiff isn’t safe, Karen Bass isn’t safe — if they’re not safe, who is?”
While the crimes have become ammunition for Republican critics of California’s public safety policies, Mark Baldassare of the Public Policy Institute of California noted that crime has become a top concern for voters. Baldassare’s research revealed a notable increase in the number of likely voters considering crime as their most important issue.
Republican strategist Rob Stutzman emphasized the potential impact on swing districts, suggesting that some Democratic lawmakers may face challenges in the upcoming election due to their stance on crime.
The rise in property crime and theft statewide since 2020 has sparked debate among Democrats, with some proposing bipartisan bills to address the issue, while others advocate for progressive measures focusing on offender services.
Former L.A. district attorney Steve Cooley highlighted the irony of politicians like Schiff, who previously supported “soft-on-crime” policies, now experiencing crime firsthand. Cooley suggested that reversing such policies could have a positive impact on public safety.
Overall, the recent surge in crime concerns has underscored potential vulnerabilities for Democrats in California as they approach the fall election.
