Part 9/12:
There’s a widespread belief that the current model perpetuates the “homeless industrial complex”—an ecosystem that benefits from ongoing crises without providing sustainable exits for residents. No comprehensive exit strategies are publicly outlined, leading skeptics to accuse the system of being designed to maintain rather than resolve homelessness.
The Command for Law and Order
Parallel to resource debates, Portland’s political climate has been marked by tensions over law enforcement and public safety. Advocates for increased police presence and interventions such as deploying the National Guard argue that current policies are too permissive of criminal activity and illegal encampments.