During a visit to Canton, Vice President JD Vance addressed a crowd of steelworkers, discussing what he referred to as President Donald Trump’s “big beautiful bill.” When questioned by a reporter about urban violence, Vance characterized Akron, Canton, and Columbus as “lawless” cities, expressing concerns for families wishing to dine out without fear of street violence.
Vance criticized local leadership, stating, “We’ve had way too much lawlessness on the streets of great American cities.” He urged the audience to consider their hesitations about visiting the downtown areas of these cities, attributing community safety issues to the lack of effective law enforcement in tackling street crime.
In response, leaders from all three cities defended their safety records. Akron Mayor Shammas Malik invited Vance to discuss public safety while showcasing the events held downtown, emphasizing that Akron prioritizes safe community gatherings. Malik highlighted successful summer events in downtown and expressed openness to collaboration between various government levels to enhance safety.
Canton Mayor William Sherer dismissed Vance’s claims of lawlessness, stressing that his city is currently seeing record lows in homicides and a decline in violent crime, thanks to dedicated police efforts, including a new police substation for improved community safety.
Similarly, Columbus officials countered Vance’s assertions, pointing to substantial reductions in homicides and felonious assaults. Deputy Chief of Staff Jennifer Fening credited Mayor Ginther’s commitment to public safety and community cooperation, which have contributed to a safer urban environment.
These responses from local leaders reflect a commitment to improving public safety and fostering community engagement. The emphasis on proactive public safety measures showcases the determination of these cities to work together in addressing concerns and dispelling misconceptions about urban violence.
This dialogue underscores the importance of collaboration between state leaders and local officials to ensure that families feel safe and secure in their communities, fostering a positive atmosphere for residents and businesses alike.