California Democratic Candidate Says Party Must Address Homelessness and Housing Costs

Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, a Democratic candidate for California governor, said Saturday that his party cannot blame President Donald Trump for the state's homelessness and affordability crises. Villaraigosa said California has the highest homelessness rate in the United States, the highest gas prices, the highest utility costs, and the highest home prices.

He added that residents cannot afford rent and that these conditions developed under Democratic policies.

Villaraigosa predicted that California's top-two primary system will result in a Democrat-versus-Republican general election. He noted that recent Senate and governor races followed the same pattern and said experts see a higher chance of two Democrats advancing than two Republicans.

Villaraigosa said he entered politics through the civil rights movement and credited the Voting Rights Act and Civil Rights Act for expanding opportunities. He described Trump as a threat to democracy while urging Democrats to examine their own record.

Villaraigosa warned that California depends too heavily on billionaires and high-net-worth individuals for tax revenue. He said further tax increases could prompt residents and revenue to leave the state.