New Directions in Crime Prevention

The way Democrats talk about guns, violent crime, and the criminal justice system has undergone a significant shift in recent years. Gone are the days when the party focused solely on protecting citizens from police abuses and overhauling the criminal justice system. Today, Democrats are taking a more comprehensive approach to addressing violent crime, acknowledging that increasing public safety, ending gun violence, and reducing mass incarceration are interconnected goals. This evolution reflects a growing understanding that preventing and reducing violent crime requires a multifaceted strategy that incorporates community violence intervention, hyperlocal crime reduction programs, and investments in community partnerships. One key area of focus is community safety, with mayors and local officials highlighting increases in funding and support for programs that aim to reduce violence. Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, for example, has launched a summer safety program, which has contributed to a significant drop in gun homicides. Similarly, Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott credits the city's group violence reduction strategy with contributing to the largest year-over-year reduction in murders. Another important aspect is the recognition that community outreach and intervention programs can be effective in reducing violence. This includes initiatives like placing community outreach workers in high-risk neighborhoods and giving police data to approach crime hotspots. These strategies have been proven to be cost-effective and can help reduce violence in the short-term while addressing root causes of violence, such as racial inequality and economic disinvestment. Democrats are also making progress on gun control, with many candidates and officials pushing for universal background checks, banning assault weapons, and expanding red flag laws. The issue remains a major priority for the party, with Congresswoman Lucy McBath, whose son was a victim of gun violence, speaking out on the issue at the Democratic National Convention.