California's Challenges: Homelessness, Taxes, and Crime
In a recent appearance on Fox News at Night with Trace Gallagher, Alex Balekian, Republican nominee for Congress and ICU Physician, discussed several critical issues affecting California. Here's a detailed look at the topics covered and Balekian's insights on addressing these challenges.
Decline of Third Street Promenade
One of the main topics of discussion was the significant decline of the once vibrant Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica. Balekian highlighted how this iconic outdoor mall, which he frequented in his youth, has turned into a ghost town with more than 50% of businesses closed. He attributed this downturn to local government policies that have failed to address rising rents, inflation, and the impact of online shopping. Unlike other thriving malls, such as The Grove, Third Street Promenade suffers from issues like homelessness and crime, exacerbated by restrictions on police and security presence.
Homelessness and Public Safety
The conversation then shifted to the broader issue of homelessness and its impact on public safety and businesses. A recent lawsuit by a homeless man against a business playing classical music to deter loitering was discussed, highlighting the struggle between maintaining public order and respecting individual rights. Balekian emphasized the need for elected officials to uphold basic public health and safety standards, which are currently being neglected, leading to adverse consequences for business owners and the community.
Gavin Newsom and Tax Policies
Governor Gavin Newsom's tax policies were also scrutinized during the segment. Despite his public denials, Newsom recently increased taxes on businesses by $18 billion. Balekian and the panel pointed out the detrimental effects of such tax hikes on the state's economy, arguing that excessive taxation drives businesses away, resulting in job losses and reduced state revenue. Balekian advocated for cutting business taxes to attract and retain businesses, thereby stimulating economic growth.
Crime and Public Infrastructure
Another pressing issue discussed was the rise in petty crime and its impact on public infrastructure. In Oakland, for example, the theft of copper from traffic lights has forced the city to replace them with stop signs, compromising public safety. Balekian argued that lenient policies on petty crime embolden criminals, leading to more significant problems. He stressed the importance of enforcing laws to maintain order and protect public assets.
Renewable Energy and Blackouts
The panel briefly touched on the potential for widespread blackouts across the United States this summer, driven by President Biden's push for renewable energy. Balekian highlighted the need for a balanced approach to energy policy that ensures reliability and affordability while transitioning to greener alternatives.
A Light-Hearted Moment: Bear Encounter in Mammoth Lakes
The segment concluded with a lighter story about a bear breaking into a car in Mammoth Lakes for Cheetos. This amusing anecdote led to a humorous debate among the panelists about how to handle such a situation, providing a brief respite from the more serious topics discussed.
Balekian's appearance on Fox News at Night underscored his commitment to addressing California's most pressing issues with practical solutions. From tackling homelessness and crime to advocating for sensible tax policies, Balekian's vision for a better California is clear. Stay tuned for more updates and insights from Alex Balekian as he campaigns for a brighter future for the state.
For more detailed discussions and to support Alex Balekian’s campaign, visit alexforca30.com and join the movement for a better California.
