Progressive elite arguments for 'abundance' (removing regulatory barriers to housing) are colliding with grassroots and municipal politics that still elect stricter rent controls. That mismatch means national or state pro‑supply messaging can fail to change local policy outcomes—and may leave cities locked into rules that discourage construction and maintenance.
— If progressive parties can’t translate abundance arguments into local wins, the left risks both policy failure on housing affordability and an electoral backlash that reshapes coalition strategy.
Jon Miltimore
2025.12.02
100% relevant
Los Angeles City Council 12–2 vote to limit rent increases to 1–4% (cited actor/event) and the St. Paul permit collapse example illustrate this dynamic.
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