California is widely regarded as one of the most liberal states in the U.S., especially concerning its criminal justice policies. This perception has sparked significant debate among voters, exemplifying the ideological divides splitting Americans.

Progressives see California's governance as taking steps in the right direction toward equity. However, many worry its approach to crime and justice results in higher crime rates. They say California is paving the way for the nation, under a potential Harris presidency, to descend into rampant and increasing violent crime. 

California: A National Model

Many Americans talk of California as the flagship state for rising crime, particularly violent crime. They attribute this increase to policies enacted by Democratic leaders in the state—whom many refer to as “California” or “San Francisco liberals.” Residents of lower-crime states view California’s policies as too lenient and prioritizing the rights of offenders over public safety.

Conversations often cite Proposition 47 as a key example of California’s approach to crime. Passed in 2014, Prop 47 reclassified certain nonviolent offenses, such as drug possession and petty theft, from felonies to misdemeanors. While the measure was intended to reduce the state’s prison population and redirect resources to crime prevention programs, many argue it has had the opposite effect.

Critics say Prop 47 has contributed to a rise in property crimes, such as shoplifting and burglary, by reducing the penalties for these offenses. They argue it emboldens criminals, leading to more frequent and brazen thefts by those who know they will face no consequences.

Some also point to the strain Prop 47 has placed on local law enforcement. By shifting the burden of dealing with offenders from state prisons to local jails, they argue, the law has overwhelmed local resources, leading to overcrowded jails. As a result, law enforcement is less likely to make arrests for downgraded crimes, further eroding public trust in the justice system.

Beyond Prop 47, California's SB 94 has also generated controversy. The bill, which allows some violent criminals, including murderers, to seek parole after serving 25 years, receives strong opposition. Critics say releasing violent offenders, especially murderers, is an egregious allowance that undermines the purpose of the justice system.

"They will be eligible as long as they have only kiIIed up to two people"

SB 94 early release bill, California: pic.twitter.com/wg1e77lcHC

— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) August 14, 2024

Kamala’s Terrible Record on Crime

The role of prominent California politicians, particularly Vice President Kamala Harris, in shaping the state’s criminal justice landscape is another area of intense scrutiny. Harris, who served as California's Attorney General before becoming a U.S. Senator and later Vice President, has a complex legacy in this regard. While some view her as a committed reformer, others criticize her for what they see as a history of inconsistent and opportunistic decision-making.

Critics often point to Harris’s tenure as Attorney General, arguing her policies contributed to the decline of public safety in urban areas like San Francisco. They cite her support for measures they believe have exacerbated homelessness and crime, and they accuse her of failing to protect law-abiding citizens. This narrative portrays Harris as a progressive whose rhetoric claims to advocate for the people, but who is out of touch with safety threats to everyday Americans.

Harris’s involvement in the "defund the police" movement also draws significant backlash. Many voters see this movement as intentionally weakening law enforcement and endangering public safety.

Harris-Walz Makes California Crime National

The concerns about California’s criminal justice policies extend beyond the state’s borders. Many Americans fear California’s approach to many issues tends to be a model for national policies down the road. This feeling is heightened by California liberals like Harris rising to prominence on the national stage.

Many Americans in red states and non-coastal purple or blue states, which have more moderate cultures, view California’s policies as dangerously liberal. They believe, if implemented nationwide, lenient crime policies will continue to skyrocket violence and crime across the country.

Many voters are particularly concerned that, should Kamala Harris and Tim Walz take office, their policies will hasten America’s demise. Walz has gained significant criticism for his governance in Minnesota during the 2020 George Floyd riots. Harris continues to face criticism for her calls to defund the police and her contradictory record as both soft on crime and a tough prosecutor.

• After Walz’s announcement as Democratic VP pick, mentions of crime spiked and sentiment dropped to 35%.
• In the last week, sentiment has fluctuated in the low 40% range and sits at 41% today.
• Kamala Harris also has poor approval on crime, hovering in the high 30% to low 40% range.

Some liberals view California as a progressive beacon, praising its emphasis on diversity, equity, and social justice. They argue the state’s proactive approach to issues like climate change, healthcare, and education represents the future of American governance. For these voters, California’s policies are not only necessary but morally just, offering a counterbalance to what they see as regressive policies in other parts of the country.

However, even among liberals, there is a growing recognition that California’s approach to crime and justice is not without its flaws. The discourse reveals significant doubts about whether the state’s progressive governance style truly aligns with the interests of its residents, especially when it comes to matters of public safety.