Matt Taibbi: The NYPD's 'Work Stoppage' Is Surreal

[branford]

14. As I indicated in detail in my response to the other poster, my point was not to defend

the results or effects of "broken windows" policing. Rather, I wanted to point-out the political importance of the policy within the context of NYC politics, economics and perceived quality of life for many voting blocs and political donors. Many policies can be unquestionably bad or questionable, yet supported by and important to a majority of voters. To deny this reality, rather than try to prudently work around it, is just foolish.

As to our other post, I don't think you would disagree that a great many liberal whites, including a significant number who voted for deBlasio, most likely support similar policing policies. An increase in purported quality of life crimes and continued conflict with the NYPD, in addition to decreasing revenue, could spell political disaster for Mayor deBlasio. The NYPD and their supporters know this from experience, and the mayor's obvious statements and actions, no less polling, indicates that he too is acutely aware of the political risks. He doesn't want to be the next David Dinkins, nor should any other liberal in NYC.