Porter’s Would-Be Successor Undermines Voter Efforts to Address Community Concerns Incumbent Representative Katie Porter of California’s 47th congressional district recently announced her candidacy for the U.S. Senate. In her absence, several candidates are vying for the open seat in the House of Representatives. Among them is Democrat Scott Baugh, who has come under fire for his stance on local initiatives aimed at combating shoplifting and open-air drug markets. In 2022, Orange County voters overwhelmingly passed Measure A, a ballot initiative that sought to enhance law enforcement’s ability to crack down on these crimes. The measure included provisions to increase penalties for repeat shoplifting, expand collaboration between law enforcement agencies, and establish safe areas for the homeless and those struggling with substance abuse. However, Baugh has expressed opposition to Measure A, arguing that it would “criminalize poverty” and unfairly target the homeless. He has also criticized the Orange County Sheriff’s Department for its recent efforts to enforce the measure, which have led to an increase in citations for petty theft. Baugh’s views have alienated many voters who supported Measure A and are concerned about the rise in crime in their communities. They argue that his opposition to the measure undermines their efforts to make their neighborhoods safer. “We voted for Measure A because we wanted more accountability for shoplifting and action against the open-air drug markets that are plaguing our county,” said resident Sarah Jones. “Baugh’s stance sends the wrong message and shows he’s out of touch with our concerns.” Critics also point to Baugh’s history of supporting policies that have contributed to the criminalization of poverty. As a former mayor of Huntington Beach, he backed a controversial “sit-lie” ordinance that outlawed sitting or lying on public sidewalks. Such ordinances have been widely criticized for targeting homeless individuals and criminalizing their existence. By opposing Measure A and advocating for policies that disproportionately affect the poor, Baugh has alienated a significant portion of voters in the 47th congressional district. His candidacy raises concerns about whether he can adequately represent the concerns of his constituents and address the pressing issues facing their community.Dave Min’s Support for Killing Voter Initiative on CrimeDave Min’s Support for Killing Voter Initiative on Crime Democratic Senator Dave Min of California has joined his party’s efforts to block a popular voter initiative aimed at cracking down on shoplifting and open-air drug markets. The move has drawn criticism from law enforcement officials who argue that the initiative would enhance public safety. Legislative Package and Voter Referendum Min and other Democratic lawmakers have introduced 14 criminal justice bills as part of a public safety package. However, the referendum, which has gathered nearly a million signatures, would introduce tougher penalties for theft and drug trafficking, reversing measures imposed by a 2014 ballot initiative. Democrats’ Kill Switch Maneuver In a last-ditch attempt to thwart the referendum, California Democrats are threatening to void their own public safety package if voters approve it. By adding a “kill switch” provision to Min’s bill, they aim to undermine the initiative and confuse voters. Risks for Min Min’s support for this strategy is risky for his congressional campaign, as he is facing a close race in Purple Orange County. Law enforcement officials in his district, including Sheriff Don Barnes, are outraged at the Democrats’ plan and support the referendum. Barnes’ Criticism Barnes questions the Democrats’ commitment to law and order and accuses them of protecting criminals at the expense of public safety. He cites the reluctance of small businesses to report crimes and points to the effects of the 2014 ballot initiative, which he claims has emboldened criminals. Law Enforcement Opposition Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer also condemns the Democrats’ strategy, calling it deceptive and harmful to public safety. Referendum Provisions The referendum would establish charges for repeat theft and increase the value threshold that triggers felony charges. It would also empower judges to sentence major drug traffickers to prison and add fentanyl to the state’s list of hard drugs, potentially leading to stiffer penalties. Democrats’ Legislative Package The Democrats’ package includes measures such as increased penalties for arson, new charges for organized crime gangs, and the creation of systems to report theft and prevent the resale of stolen goods. However, critics argue that it fails to address the issue of stricter penalties for theft and drug trafficking. Min’s Position Min has dodged questions about his support for the referendum, stating that he needs to review its language more closely. His voting record on crime-related issues indicates support for soft measures, including ending cash bail and sealing criminal records. Colleagues’ Disapproval One of Min’s Democratic colleagues has withdrawn her support for two bills in the legislative package due to the “poison pill” language. She supports the referendum and opposes the political maneuvering to undermine it. Conclusion Dave Min’s support for killing the voter initiative on crime has sparked controversy and raised concerns about his commitment to public safety. The consequences of this move remain to be seen, but it has already drawn criticism from law enforcement and jeopardized Min’s congressional campaign.In Orange County, California, a hotly contested race for the 47th Congressional District has taken a contentious turn. Former Irvine Mayor Farrah Khan, a Democrat seeking to replace retiring Rep. Katie Porter, has come under fire for her opposition to a local ballot measure aimed at addressing rampant shoplifting and open-air drug markets in the county. Measure 26-227, known as the “Safer Communities Act,” was designed to empower law enforcement to enforce laws against organized retail theft and establish safe zones around schools and parks where drug dealing and consumption would be strictly prohibited. However, Khan has expressed concerns that the measure’s enforcement provisions could lead to racial profiling and excessive policing in minority communities. Supporters of Measure 26-227 argue that Khan’s objections are unfounded and that the measure is necessary to address the growing public safety crisis in the county. They point to statistics indicating a surge in shoplifting incidents and drug-related overdoses in recent years. Opponents, including Khan, contend that the measure would criminalize homelessness and drug addiction without addressing the underlying causes of these problems. The debate over Measure 26-227 has intensified in recent weeks, with both sides accusing each other of spreading misinformation and fear-mongering. Khan’s stance has drawn criticism from some fellow Democrats, who argue that she is out of step with the majority of voters on this issue. “This is a public safety emergency that demands action,” said one Democratic Party official. “Residents deserve to feel safe in their communities, and we cannot afford to let special interests undermine our efforts to address this crisis.” Opponents of Measure 26-227 have also been vocal in their opposition, organizing protests and distributing flyers urging voters to reject the measure. They argue that the measure would only worsen the county’s homeless and drug addiction problems and that resources should instead be invested in social programs and treatment facilities. As the election nears, the fate of Measure 26-227 and the future of public safety in Orange County hang in the balance. The outcome of the vote could have significant implications for the community and for Khan’s political aspirations.
