San Francisco Speaks Out: Residents and Leaders Push Back Against Trump's Troops Plan

San Francisco is known for its vibrant culture and tech scene, but lately, it's been in the news for a different reason. President Trump has suggested sending federal troops to the city, calling it a "mess" due to crime and homelessness. But locals aren't having it. People like Manit Limlamai and Kai Saetern, who work in the tech industry, say the city has its issues, but it's not the chaos Trump makes it out to be. They've lived here for years and feel safe. They also think the military isn't the right tool to fix urban problems. Across the city, others agree. Peter Hill, an 81-year-old chess player, calls the idea "fascist. " Wendy Aragon, a local activist, fears it will make her Latino community feel even more targeted. State Sen. Scott Wiener says it's just Trump's way of attacking cities he sees as enemies. The White House defends the idea, saying it's worked in other cities like Washington, D. C. But San Francisco's mayor, Daniel Lurie, says crime is actually down. He trusts local law enforcement to handle things. Even some big names have weighed in. Billionaire Marc Benioff initially supported the idea but later apologized, saying he now believes the National Guard isn't needed. Elon Musk, however, still thinks federal intervention is the only solution. The city's response has been swift and clear: no thanks. Rep. Nancy Pelosi says San Francisco doesn't want or need Trump's chaos. Gov. Gavin Newsom calls the idea illegal and immoral. And regular folks, like Nancy DeStefanis, a 76-year-old activist, say they simply don't want troops in their city. Visitors have mixed feelings. Some, like Claire Roeland from Texas, see urban decay but don't think troops are the answer. Others, like Sanjiv, a tech worker, call the idea ridiculous.