With Housing Costs High, Democrats Hone YIMBY Message
Zoning reform got a shout-out at the Democratic National Convention, and Kamala Harris has vowed to build millions of new homes. But the GOP wants to own the issue, too.
US Vice President Kamala Harris speaks during the Democratic National Convention (DNC) at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois, US, on Monday, Aug. 19, 2024.
Photographer: Victor J. Blue/BloombergIn the run-up to the presidential election, housing has emerged as a hot issue, but a blurry one.
Zoning reforms championed in California have proven to be popular in some red states led by Republican lawmakers, even policies that are still controversial in major blue cities run by Democratic majorities. Lawmakers have found success by crossing the aisle to build coalitions in order to ease land-use restrictions and approve more housing. Affordable housing is a big tent.