Obama Calls LA Homelessness 'Atrocity', Criticizes 'Losing' Approach

Former president says current strategy to address crisis lacks political support

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Former President Barack Obama criticized the homelessness crisis in Los Angeles, calling it an "atrocity" given the billions spent by officials. Obama said the average person doesn't want to have to navigate tent cities, and that the current approach is a "losing political strategy" that needs more accountability and practical solutions to gain majority support.

Why it matters

Obama's comments highlight the ongoing challenges and political tensions around addressing homelessness in major cities like Los Angeles, where the crisis has persisted despite significant government spending. His remarks suggest the need for a more balanced approach that recognizes both the humanity of those experiencing homelessness and the concerns of the broader public.

The details

In an interview, Obama said the homelessness situation in LA is "morally - ethically speaking - an atrocity" given the city's wealth. He argued the average person doesn't want to have to navigate tent encampments, and that the current strategy is a "losing political strategy" that needs to come with more accountability for those being offered assistance.

  • Obama made the comments in a recent interview with YouTuber Brian Tyler Cohen.

The players

Barack Obama

The former President of the United States who criticized the homelessness crisis in Los Angeles.

Gavin Newsom

The current Governor of California who has touted a 9% statewide drop in homelessness and announced new investments to create more shelters and services.

Karen Bass

The current Mayor of Los Angeles.

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What they’re saying

“I think it is morally — ethically speaking — it is an atrocity that in a country this wealthy, we have people just on the streets, and we should insist on policies that recognize their full humanity — people who are houseless — and be able to provide them with the help and resources that they need.”

— Barack Obama, Former President

“We're not going to be able to generate support for it if we simply say, you know what, it's not their fault and so they should be able to do whatever they want, because that's a losing political strategy.”

— Barack Obama, Former President

The takeaway

Obama's criticism of the homelessness crisis in Los Angeles underscores the need for a more balanced and politically viable approach that addresses both the humanitarian needs of those experiencing homelessness and the concerns of the broader public. Finding this balance will be crucial for making meaningful progress on this complex issue.