Santa Monica Observer Endorses the Safety Slate for City Council: Phil Brock, Oscar de la Torre, John Putnam, and Dr. Vivian Roknian

As Santa Monica faces rising concerns about crime and public safety, it's more important than ever for voters to understand which candidates genuinely prioritize safety and security for our community. This election, we strongly endorse the slate of Phil Brock, Oscar de la Torre, John Putnam, and Dr. Vivian Roknian for Santa Monica City Council. These candidates have consistently shown a commitment to tackling the city's safety challenges head-on, standing in stark contrast to their opponents who have repeatedly taken softer positions on crime.

**The Reality of Santa Monica's Crime Crisis**

Santa Monica's crime problem is not just a talking point-it's a daily reality for residents. Senior citizens feel unsafe walking in their neighborhoods, and families are increasingly concerned about the environment their children are growing up in. This election isn't just about electing council members; it's about choosing the future of our city's safety.

Phil Brock and his slate have been wrongly criticized by some who argue that the city's crime issues are a result of their policies. However, it's critical to note that their opponents, including Dan Hall, Ellis Raskin, Natalya Zernitskaya, and Barry Snell, have repeatedly demonstrated positions that align with the progressive, softer-on-crime policies that have exacerbated our safety concerns.

**Clear Differences in Safety Policies**

The safety slate, including Brock, de la Torre, Putnam, and Roknian, support Nathan Hochman for District Attorney-a stark departure from their opponents who continue to align with current DA George Gascón. Gascón's tenure has been marked by policies that many believe have tied the hands of law enforcement, resulting in a revolving door for offenders who face little to no consequences for their actions. This lack of accountability directly impacts the crime rates in Santa Monica, as offenders are often released back onto our streets.

Election sign in Santa Monica, 9.2024.

The opposing candidates' positions speak volumes:

- They oppose ending needle distribution in places like Reed Park, which has become a hotspot for drug-related activities.

- They refuse to support proposed bans on sleeping in public spaces, even when these areas become unsafe.

- They do not support basic public safety measures like allowing police to make traffic stops, which are critical for maintaining order.

These positions reflect a clear disconnect from the realities of the safety concerns that Santa Monica residents face daily.

**Supporting Those Committed to Safety**

Phil Brock, Oscar de la Torre, John Putnam, and Dr. Vivian Roknian have consistently voted in favor of measures that prioritize community safety, from supporting ordinances to fund and expand our police force to endorsing policies that tackle crime head-on. They have been the voice of reason on the City Council, often standing against the current progressive majority that has blocked common-sense safety measures.

Gleam Davis, Jessie Zwick, and Caroline Torosis, who have endorsed the opposing slate, continue to downplay the connection between crime and homelessness and have blocked essential safety ordinances. Their endorsements reflect a commitment to an outdated progressive agenda that has failed Santa Monica time and again.

**A Safer Future for Santa Monica**

The safety slate, led by Phil Brock, represents the best chance for Santa Monica to address its pressing crime issues and create a safer environment for all residents. They have the experience, the endorsements from law enforcement, and a track record of making tough decisions to protect our community.

This election, Santa Monica voters have a clear choice: continue with policies that have failed us or choose a team committed to safety, accountability, and real change. Vote for Phil Brock, Oscar de la Torre, John Putnam, and Dr. Vivian Roknian to help make Santa Monica a safer place for everyone.