Graham Stephan, a real estate investor and YouTuber, recently returned to Santa Monica, California, to meet with City Mayor Phil Brock. In his video, Stephan discusses the numerous issues plaguing the state, especially those affecting Santa Monica. This meeting provided a detailed look into what many have been saying about California’s deteriorating state of affairs, confirming long-held suspicions about the problems and their root causes.
The Escalating Crime Rates
One of the most pressing issues Stephan highlights is the alarming increase in crime, particularly theft, in Santa Monica. Mayor Brock candidly admits that crime in the city has reached concerning levels, particularly due to the influx of criminals from nearby Los Angeles. “Almost all of that comes from criminals that are driving in from Los Angeles,” Brock explains. The mayor’s comments confirm what residents have long suspected—that the crime wave is not just a local issue but one spilling over from larger neighboring cities.
The Impact of Proposition 36
A significant part of the discussion revolves around Proposition 36, a measure aimed at rolling back some of the lenient crime classifications introduced in 2014. Brock supports the proposition, arguing that it is necessary to combat the rising crime rates effectively. “We can’t let people just ruin their own lives and by nature, ruin the lives of business people,” he states. Stephan points out that while this measure could help, it also faces criticism, particularly from those who argue it will lead to increased court costs.
The Homelessness Crisis
Homelessness remains one of the most visible and challenging issues in Santa Monica. Mayor Brock acknowledges the complexity of the problem, noting that while significant resources are being allocated, it never seems to be enough. “The amount of money we’re spending and the amount of help that we’re trying to give is immense, but honestly, it’s never enough,” Brock says. Stephan agrees, adding that the issue is not just about housing but also about mental health and substance abuse, which are often the root causes of homelessness.
The Challenges of Addressing Homelessness
One of the most striking revelations from the video is how difficult it is to effectively address homelessness. Despite the state spending billions on cleanup efforts and housing initiatives, the problem persists. Stephan mentions that the Supreme Court ruling allowing for the removal of homeless encampments has brought some relief, but it is far from a complete solution. “Even though it’s a step in a direction, is it the right direction?” Stephan asks, reflecting the uncertainty surrounding these efforts.
The Role of California’s Policies
Throughout the discussion, it becomes clear that many of the issues Santa Monica faces are a direct result of broader state policies. Stephan emphasizes that the problems in Santa Monica are symptomatic of a larger issue affecting all of California. “Policies within California affect every city within it,” Stephan notes, pointing out that there is only so much local governments can do without significant changes at the state level.
The Economic Impact on Local Businesses
The conversation also touches on the economic impact of these issues on local businesses. Brock explains that the combination of crime, homelessness, and high taxes has made it increasingly difficult for small businesses to thrive. Stephan adds that many landlords are hesitant to rent their properties due to restrictive rent control laws, further exacerbating the problem. “A lot of them are choosing not to rent their property and instead sell it or just keep it empty,” Stephan observes, highlighting a growing trend among property owners.
The Need for Accountability
Both Stephan and Brock agree that there needs to be greater accountability in how resources are allocated and used. Stephan argues that the state’s spending needs to be more closely monitored to ensure effectiveness. “Until there’s an independent third party overseeing exactly where the money is spent, I can’t imagine it changing anytime soon,” he says. This lack of oversight, according to Stephan, is one reason why despite the enormous sums spent, the situation remains dire.
A Glimmer of Hope
Despite the grim reality, Stephan ends on a hopeful note. He believes that change is possible if the community comes together and pushes for meaningful reform. “Things can change for the better, and if all of us as a community continue making small changes over time, things will improve,” Stephan concludes. His optimism serves as a reminder that while the challenges are significant, they are not insurmountable.
“You Get What You Voted For”
People in the comments shared their thoughts: “The soft on crime idea was by far one of the dumbest things that has happened in the past 20 years”
Another commenter added: “The scary part is people voted for this…Time, after time, after time.”
One person said: “California had a chance to get rid of Newsome and they didn’t. You get what you voted for”
A Call to Action
The conversation between Graham Stephan and Mayor Phil Brock sheds light on the ongoing issues in Santa Monica and California at large. From rising crime rates to the homelessness crisis, the problems are complex and deeply rooted in state policies. However, as Stephan points out, with collective effort and the right changes, there is hope for improvement. It’s a call to action for residents, policymakers, and everyone invested in the future of California.
Effect of California’s Current Policies
What are your thoughts? How do you think California’s current policies are contributing to the challenges faced by cities like Santa Monica? Are there alternative approaches that could be more effective? With crime and homelessness on the rise, what do you believe is the most urgent issue that needs to be addressed in California? How would you prioritize the state’s resources? Do you think Proposition 36 will be effective in reducing crime, or are there deeper systemic issues that need to be tackled first?
To dive deeper into this topic, check out the full video on Graham Stephan’s YouTube channel here.
