Poll finds Oakland voters support Mayor Barbara Lee, want more cops

A recent survey from FM3 reveals that 67% of Oakland voters support increasing the police force amidst ongoing discussions about public safety. Additionally, 66% favor using city-owned surveillance cameras, while 59% support deploying aerial drones for monitoring. Mayor Barbara Lee enjoys a 61% approval rating, contrasting sharply with the City Council's 27%. Voters also express significant backing for changes to the city’s homeless encampment policy, with 61% in favor of allowing quicker clean-ups of camps. Public safety ranks as the most critical service for 61% of respondents, followed by homelessness resources at 11%.

The survey shows that 40% of voters believe crime has been improving, correlating with a reported 25% decrease in violent crime year-to-date. Over the past two decades, the Chamber has routinely polled residents on key issues, reflecting changing priorities in Oakland. The findings may influence future city governance and policy-making decisions.