Trump is right about homeless camps: Make them 'move out, IMMEDIATELY' | Opinion
usatoday.com -- Friday, August 15, 2025, 9:57:58 AM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: White House Policy Proposals, Democratic Party Responses, Presidential Campaigns

D.C. officials gave homeless residents notice to vacate their encampments as part of President Donald Trump's push to reduce crime and homelessness.
Whenever I return to visit family in Oregon, I am appalled by what I see.
Not that I don't adore my home state and its abundance of natural beauty, from the mountains to the ocean.
It's the endemic homelessness that's been allowed to fester in cities across the state that disgusts me.
These "encampments" litter sidewalks, underpasses, roadways, downtowns and even parks and natural areas. They are trash heaps that are not only eye sores but also create public health and safety hazards and ruin neighborhoods and businesses.
I've seen it happen in my hometown of Salem, and it's true in cities up and down the West Coast. And the progressive elected officials who let this happen should be held to account.
It's not just a Pacific Northwest and California problem, however. Other liberal states and cities have allowed homelessness to infect their communities, too.
Since they don't seem capable of handling the situation on their own, I was pleased to see President Donald Trump's willingness to take action.
This week, Trump turned his focus to crime and homelessness in Washington, DC, but he's also taken executive measures this summer to alleviate homeless camps across the country.
Thank goodness.
Is Trump 'cruel'? Maybe he's actually doing some good.
In two executive orders issued Aug. 11, Trump laid out his plan for cleaning up the streets of the nation's capital, saying he wants people camping in public spaces to "move out, IMMEDIATELY."
"We're going to be removing homeless encampments from all over our parks, our beautiful, beautiful parks, which now a lot of people can't walk on," Trump said. The president also said he'd focus on ridding underpasses and other public places of these camps.
In a social media post, Trump compared his plan to push back on homeless camps to how efficiently he closed down former President Joe Biden's open border.
This follows a July executive order aimed at curbing homelessness more broadly. The Trump administration points to the record number of people sleeping on the streets - more than 270,000 in 2024. The president pledged to make it a priority to stand by communities as they seek to enforce laws against public camping and drug use.
"Shifting homeless individuals into long-term institutional settings for humane treatment through the appropriate use of civil commitment will restore public order," the order states. "Surrendering our cities and citizens to disorder and fear is neither compassionate to the homeless nor other citizens. My Administration will take a new approach focused on protecting public safety."
Yet, for this to work, states and cities must get on board with making it illegal to set up "camps" in the first place. It's shocking that some politicians - such as Democrats in Oregon - are refusing to do that.
Liberals like to call Trump cruel for taking action against homelessness. They're wrong.
Supreme Court greenlighted efforts to curb homelessness. States should get on board.
It's not just a Republican priority, either.
Even California Gov. Gavin Newsom - who is about as progressive as they come - has gotten sick of the rampant encampments in his state and the unwillingness of cities to fight it. He's threatened to withhold funding from communities that do nothing, which is encouraging to see.
I feel for cities like Grants Pass, Oregon, that have tried to clean up public spaces but are hampered in their efforts.
Grants Pass is the city behind the 2024 win at the U.S. Supreme Court, which upheld bans on homeless people camping in public. The city started to clean up its streets and parks but was recently sued for violating state laws on homelessness.
It's not a kindness to allow homeless people to live in squalor. And it's unfair to taxpaying citizens to allow their public spaces to be overrun with it.
I am thrilled Trump is standing up to the liberal, do-nothing attitude. Our cities will all benefit if he succeeds.
Ingrid Jacques is a columnist at USA TODAY. Contact her at ijacques@usatoday.com or on X: @Ingrid_Jacques
Sign Our PetitionThe issue of homelessness in the United States has reached a critical level, with recent discussions surrounding President Trump’s executive orders aimed at addressing the crisis. However, the approach proposed in such orders raises fundamental questions about compassion, effective policy, and the systemic issues contributing to homelessness. While the author of the opinion piece expresses support for a hardline stance against homeless encampments, it is essential to consider the historical context and the social justice implications of these policies.
Historically, homelessness has been a persistent issue exacerbated by various socio-economic factors, including the decline of affordable housing, wage stagnation, and the impact of systemic racism. The rise of encampments, particularly in urban areas, is not solely a result of individual failures or lack of personal responsibility, as suggested by the opinion piece. Instead, it reflects broader societal failures, including the lack of accessible mental health services, substance abuse treatment, and affordable housing options. Policies that merely seek to displace homeless individuals without addressing these root causes will continue the cycle of homelessness, rather than alleviate it.
Moreover, the article’s framing of homelessness as a public nuisance undermines the dignity of individuals experiencing it. The comparison of encampments to "trash heaps" dehumanizes those living in these conditions and ignores the fact that many are simply trying to survive in an increasingly hostile environment. The call for immediate removal of encampments ignores the basic human rights of individuals, who deserve to have their needs addressed with compassion and care, rather than aggression. Instead of criminalizing homelessness, society should focus on supportive measures that offer pathways to housing and rehabilitation.
The notion that public safety is enhanced by the removal of homeless individuals from public spaces is a dangerous rhetoric that has been employed throughout history. It recalls past policies that criminalized poverty and criminalized homelessness, leading to the systemic marginalization of vulnerable populations. When people are pushed out of sight, rather than provided with meaningful support, they do not cease to exist; they simply become more invisible. This approach perpetuates a cycle of fear and misunderstanding about homelessness, rather than fostering a community-based solution that acknowledges the humanity of those affected.
Furthermore, the suggestion that a federal push to criminalize public camping will solve the homelessness crisis is not only misguided but also reflects a lack of understanding of local governance and community involvement. Local governments are best positioned to devise solutions that work for their specific contexts, taking into account the unique needs and challenges of their communities. History has shown that federal overreach often leads to one-size-fits-all policies that fail to address the complexities of homelessness. Collaborative efforts that involve input from community organizations, social workers, and those experiencing homelessness are essential for generating effective, humane solutions.
In conclusion, while the article advocates for a swift and punitive response to homelessness, it overlooks the complexities of the issue and the need for compassionate, systemic solutions. The focus should not be on the removal of individuals from public spaces but rather on addressing the underlying issues that lead to homelessness, such as affordable housing, healthcare access, and mental health resources. Right-wing discourse often simplifies homelessness into a crime issue, but it is critical to challenge this narrative by advocating for policies that promote equity, dignity, and community support. Engaging in meaningful conversations about the root causes of homelessness is essential for creating a just society where everyone has access to their basic needs and rights.
The issue of homelessness has been a persistent and complex challenge in America, exacerbated by systemic inequalities and economic pressures that have grown over decades. The article in question discusses President Trump’s recent executive orders aimed at disbanding homeless encampments in Washington, D.C., and beyond, presenting the situation as a law-and-order issue rather than a humanitarian crisis. This framing is deeply problematic and reflects a broader historical tendency to criminalize poverty and vilify those who find themselves without homes.
Historically, the response to homelessness in the United States has oscillated between compassion and criminalization. In the 1980s, under the Reagan administration, significant cuts were made to social programs that supported mental health and affordable housing. This initiated a dramatic rise in homelessness, which has continued to burgeon as cities and states have struggled to manage the influx of people living on the streets. The current advocacy for sweeping encampment removals, as proposed by Trump, ignores the root causes of homelessness—such as lack of affordable housing, inadequate mental health services, and the economic consequences of policies that prioritize profits over people. By failing to address these systemic issues, the proposed solutions become punitive rather than constructive, often exacerbating the very problems they intend to solve.
As concerned citizens, it is crucial to emphasize the need for comprehensive, human-centered approaches to homelessness. Rather than simply moving people out of sight, we should advocate for policies that provide sustainable solutions. This includes investing in affordable housing projects, enhancing mental health care, and creating job training programs that empower individuals to reclaim their lives. Educational initiatives that inform the public about the intricacies of homelessness and the socio-economic factors that contribute to it can help shift the narrative away from stigmatization and towards empathy and understanding. When discussing these issues with others, it is essential to highlight that homelessness is not merely a personal failing, but a societal one, rooted in systemic inequities.
Moreover, we can mobilize support for policies that focus on harm reduction and compassionate responses to homelessness. For instance, cities like Houston have successfully implemented “Housing First” initiatives, which prioritize providing stable housing for individuals experiencing homelessness without preconditions. This approach has proven effective in reducing homelessness and improving overall community health. Advocating for similar models across the United States can serve as a constructive counter-narrative to those who favor punitive measures. Engaging with local and state representatives to encourage the adoption of such policies can amplify the voices of those in need while promoting social justice.
Lastly, it is important to challenge the narrative that equates homelessness with crime. The assertion that homeless encampments lead to increased crime rates is often unfounded and serves to perpetuate fear and division within communities. Instead, we should focus on data-driven discussions that reveal how addressing homelessness through supportive services leads to safer, more cohesive communities. Building coalitions with local nonprofits and advocacy organizations can help amplify these messages and create a united front to counteract the fear-based policies being proposed by some political leaders.
In conclusion, the discussion around homelessness must evolve from a punitive framework to one that prioritizes compassion, understanding, and systemic change. As citizens, we have the power to advocate for a society that recognizes and addresses the root causes of homelessness, rather than simply pushing the issue out of sight. By fostering empathy, promoting equitable policies, and challenging harmful narratives, we can work towards a future where everyone has access to safe, stable, and dignified housing.
In response to the issues highlighted in the article regarding homelessness and the approach suggested, there are several actions individuals can take to address homelessness in a compassionate and constructive manner. Here’s a detailed breakdown of ideas for personal action, including where to focus efforts, who to contact, and what to say.
### What Can We Personally Do About This?
1. **Advocate for Comprehensive Solutions**: Focus on advocating for policies that address the root causes of homelessness, such as affordable housing, mental health services, and addiction treatment.
2. **Support Local Organizations**: Volunteer time or donate to organizations that provide direct services to homeless individuals, such as shelters, food banks, or outreach programs.
3. **Engage in Community Initiatives**: Participate in or organize community clean-up events or housing initiatives that promote social cohesion and support for people experiencing homelessness.
4. **Educate Others**: Share information about homelessness in your community, dispelling myths and promoting understanding about the complexities of the issue.
### Exact Actions to Take
1. **Petitions and Advocacy Campaigns**: - **Sign and Share Petitions**: Find and support petitions advocating for increased funding for affordable housing and mental health services. Websites like Change.org often have relevant petitions. - **Example Petition**: Search for petitions that push for “Housing First” policies, which prioritize providing stable housing before addressing other issues like healthcare or employment.
2. **Contact Local Representatives**: - **Who to Write To**: Contact local city council members, state representatives, and congressional leaders who have the power to influence policy on homelessness. - **Example Contacts**: - **Local City Council Member**: Look up your city’s council member (e.g., Portland City Council: [Portland City Council](https://www.portland.gov/council)) - **State Representative**: Identify your state representative through your state’s legislative website. - **U.S. Congress Members**: Use [congress.gov](https://www.congress.gov/) to find your representatives.
- **Contact Information**: - **Example**: - **U.S. Representative Earl Blumenauer** - Email: [Contact through website](https://blumenauer.house.gov/contact) - Mailing Address: 729 NE Oregon St # 115, Portland, OR 97232
3. **Write Letters**: - **What to Say**: Advocate for humane and comprehensive approaches to homelessness that include: - **Investment in affordable housing**: "I urge you to prioritize funding for affordable housing initiatives that can help address the root causes of homelessness." - **Mental health and addiction services**: "Please support policies that provide accessible mental health care and addiction treatment for those in need." - **Community involvement**: "Encourage community-based solutions that integrate homeless individuals into society, rather than criminalizing their existence."
4. **Participate in Local Meetings**: - Attend city council meetings, community forums, or planning sessions to voice support for comprehensive strategies to combat homelessness. - Prepare a short statement or question to bring attention to the need for compassionate and sustainable solutions.
5. **Raise Awareness on Social Media**: - Use platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to share information about homelessness, local initiatives, and upcoming events that promote awareness and action. - Create or participate in campaigns that challenge stigmas around homelessness and promote understanding.
### Conclusion
Addressing homelessness requires a multi-faceted approach rooted in compassion and social justice. By advocating for policies that focus on affordable housing, supporting local organizations, and educating the community, individuals can contribute to meaningful change. Engaging with representatives and participating in community initiatives will help create a more inclusive and supportive environment for those experiencing homelessness.