Hi there,

The One-Word Solution to Homelessness: Funding. 

That’s the answer provided by my friend and housing expert Randy Shaw, executive director of the Tenderloin Housing Clinic. Shaw played a crucial role in the creation of rent control in Berkeley and has been executive director of the Tenderloin Housing Clinic for 4 decades. And in my new podcast, he explains how we have clear answers on how to address homelessness, if our elected officials are willing to fund them.

My history with Randy goes back to the beginning of the decade. He was one of the first Bay Area organizers to open his door to me, and the lessons from his work and writing have informed my approach to social change. But I learned new things in this conversation: about the economists’ critique of rent control; Joe Biden’s housing plans; and, above all, the corrupting influence of money in politics. 

This last point is crucial as we get closer to election day. A 2014 Princeton study found that government policy is dictated by economic elites, and that ordinary Americans have virtually no influence. The corporate spin machine is a powerful force that distorts most voters’ preferences.

This is why our campaign is financed entirely by small donors ($50 max) and public financing. In contrast, our opponent is funded, in part, by corporate PACs and the wealthiest developers in Berkeley, including SF millionaire Patrick Kennedy. This election will be an opportunity to take a stand for keeping money out of politics. But we can only do that with your support. 

Best,
Wayne

PS Our last public financing deadline before the election is tonight at midnight. All Berkeley donors will generate a 6x match. Consider donating or asking a friend to donate, so we can make a final push before we vote. Here’s the link.