Was “Defund the Police” Crazy?
A reckoning with the “woke” years.
In a paradoxical moment, the phrase "defund the police" has become a source of political conflict and criticism. While it is seen as an emblem of so-called "woke" excess, its proponents argue that redirecting funds towards social programs can help reduce crime rates. Recent polls show that a majority of Americans favor increased funding for social services and higher taxes on large corporations and businesses, indicating a shift in public opinion.
Despite this, centrist Democrats have pushed back against the idea, arguing that it alienates working-class voters. As a result, many progressive and left-wing candidates have distanced themselves from the slogan, despite its growing popularity. The debate highlights the tension between the desire for social change and the practical concerns of a diverse electorate.
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