Wisconsin state Sen. LaTonya Johnson (D) sparked controversy after unceremoniously dismissing much of America during a heated debate on the growing crime rates in cities. Johnson’s polarizing declaration, “f— the suburbs,” echoed through the Wisconsin Senate floor as she vehemently contested increased funding for law enforcement.
At the core of her argument, Johnson questioned the surge in police reinforcement in the suburbs as crime wreaks havoc in the heart of cities. She provocatively argued that the suburbs were disconnected from the harsh realities of city life.
Wisconsin State Senator @StateSenLaTonya said "F— the suburbs, because they don’t know a g–damn thing about how life is in the city" in a floor speech.
Yet another example of hate and divisiveness from the Democrats. See my response on @FoxNews.
If you want me on that… pic.twitter.com/lnLhRiKkFX
— Larry Elder (@larryelder) July 1, 2023
Johnson’s comment was immediately met with a wave of outrage on Twitter. Critics, including prominent conservatives, lambasted the senator, drawing parallels between her remark and Hillary Clinton’s infamous “deplorables” comment of 2016. The unapologetic hostility toward a considerable demographic segment has reminded voters of the disdain some Democrats have for traditional America.
Among the outspoken critics was Kayleigh McEnany, co-host of “Outnumbered,” who characterized Johnson’s statements as dismissive and “politically dumb.” Highlighting that suburban residents comprise a significant portion of the American population and voting bloc, she emphasized the potential implications of Johnson’s heedless remarks.
Moreover, McEnany underscored that the suburban vote was pivotal in President Biden’s electoral victory. Dismissing this influential voter group could significantly impact future elections.
Echoing these sentiments, Ian Prior, senior adviser at America First Legal, warned of the possible peril that Johnson’s dismissive attitude sparked. He argued that the suburbs are not immune to crime because of the policies promoted by lawmakers like Johnson, which lack a stern stance on crime.
Johnson’s disregard for suburban concerns further inflames the debate about crime in the United States. Her comments downplay the worrying trend of crime spilling into the suburbs, resulting from what many conservative critics deem a lax approach to law enforcement. Crime doesn’t respect city limits; it spreads, and lawmakers should address it, regardless of the geography.
Moreover, it’s a grave miscalculation to assume that suburban residents lack insight into city life. Fox News Julie Banderas disputed Johnson’s claim, pointing out that many have migrated from cities to suburbs, bringing their urban experiences. Hence, to insult suburbanites is to insult Americans who understand urban life better than Johnson presumes.
There’s a disconnect between urban and suburban, and Johnson’s comments exacerbate it. Respect and understanding should bridge this divide, not widen it with divisive language and misguided assumptions.
Johnson’s expletive-laden dismissal of the suburbs may win her some applause in certain quarters. However, more is needed to serve the cause of unity or understanding between urban and suburban communities.
