San Francisco, CA – As the city gears up to host the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, questions are being raised about the necessity of the clean-up efforts undertaken by the local government. Critics argue that the city’s focus on tidying its streets and addressing long-standing issues is driven by the need to impress international leaders, rather than prioritize the needs of its own residents.
U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan faced tough questions regarding the clean-up efforts during a recent press conference. FOX Business correspondent Hillary Vaughn questioned whether President Biden was embarrassed that San Francisco had to undergo a “total makeover” to be presentable for his out-of-town guests.
Sullivan, however, defended the clean-up efforts and expressed President Biden’s pride in hosting the summit. He highlighted the United States’ strong economic record, low unemployment rates, and investments in innovation and infrastructure as examples of the nation’s appeal for foreign investment. Sullivan emphasized that the United States is in a strong economic position and that foreign countries attending the summit recognize this fact.
Critics argue that the focus on impressing international leaders raises concerns about the city’s priorities. Vaughn further pressed Sullivan by asking whether President Biden values impressing the leader of China more than addressing the needs of the American people in San Francisco who pay taxes every day.
The clean-up efforts in San Francisco have been met with skepticism, with some pointing out that the city had been neglecting issues such as homelessness, crime, drugs, and office building vacancies. California Governor Gavin Newsom’s recent remark acknowledging that the clean-up was in response to the APEC summit has only fueled the criticism.
Sullivan chose not to respond to Vaughn’s question directly, stating that he was not familiar with the context of Governor Newsom’s comment. He also rejected the premise of the question, emphasizing the importance of hosting the summit in showcasing the United States as a premier destination for investment.
San Francisco has been grappling with significant challenges, including a rise in crime and homelessness exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the city has also been working on initiatives to revitalize its downtown area and attract businesses back. The hosting of the APEC conference is expected to bring a boost of $53 million to the city and local businesses.
In conclusion, as San Francisco prepares to welcome international leaders for the APEC summit, concerns have been raised about the city’s priorities and its focus on cleaning up for the event. Critics argue that the clean-up efforts should have been directed towards addressing long-standing issues faced by residents. The debate highlights the ongoing challenges faced by San Francisco and the delicate balance between hosting international events and meeting the needs of its own community.
