Summary:
On this episode of Hard Knock Radio, Davey D connects with veteran journalist Tim Redmond to discuss San Francisco’s evolving political landscape under Mayor Daniel Lurie. The conversation breaks down the city’s increasing reliance on law enforcement to address homelessness, addiction, and public safety—and the consequences of sidelining harm-reduction and social services in the process.
🚓 Policing as Policy
San Francisco’s new mayor has embraced a law-and-order approach, backed by a more conservative Board of Supervisors. Arrests for drug use and dealing are up 700%, but treatment beds remain scarce. The result? County jails overloaded with people going through withdrawal without proper medical care.
Meanwhile, shelter expansion plans focus on large, congregate spaces—many of which aren’t a viable option for people with addictions, pets, partners, or mental health needs.
💸 Budgets Reflect Priorities
As Redmond notes, every city department faces a 15% budget cut—except the police. Despite staffing shortages, SFPD is spending over $100 million on overtime, with some officers earning up to $500K per year. Social services, housing providers, and nonprofits are bearing the brunt of the cuts.
“The budget is a political document,” Redmond said. “And it shows us exactly where this administration is headed.”
🏘️ Housing, Displacement & Political Fallout
The conversation also covers:
- The myth of a Republican surge in Chinatown
- Rising concerns in Bayview-Hunters Point over services
- The real reasons for San Francisco’s $800M budget deficit
- How federal funding, tech exodus, and tourism loss are reshaping the city
Progressives still hold ground in some areas, but even within the Board of Supervisors, alliances are shifting.
🎧 Listen to the full episode
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