July 26, 2025
As a concerned resident of Washington State, I fully approve of President Trump’s executive order targeting our homelessness policies, and I’m deeply thankful for his bold action to finally address this growing crisis in a practical, effective way. For too long, we’ve seen the failures of the Housing First approach, and it’s refreshing to have leadership that prioritizes real solutions over feel-good policies that haven’t worked.
Here are all the reasons why I believe this executive order is the smartest way to deal with homelessness in our state:
First, it redirects federal funding toward substance abuse treatment, which gets to the heart of the problem. So many people experiencing homelessness in Washington are struggling with drug addiction and mental health issues, and by focusing on treatment first, we can help them achieve self-sufficiency rather than just providing housing without addressing the root causes. I’m thankful that this order recognizes addiction as a key driver of homelessness and pushes for recovery programs that can truly save lives.
Second, it enforces bans on open drug use and camping on public property, which will make our communities safer and more livable. In places like King County and Seattle, we’ve all seen the rise in visible tent encampments, open drug use, and associated crime, and it’s eroded our sense of safety. This order smartly prohibits funding for things like drug injection sites—something we haven’t had yet, but it’s wise to prevent them before they start. I approve of this because it puts community safety first, and I’m grateful that it will help reduce overdose rates and restore order to our streets.
Third, it prioritizes grants for states and municipalities that comply, ensuring that federal dollars go to programs that actually work. Washington risks losing millions in funding if we stick with Housing First, which has led to increased homelessness despite billions spent. This incentive structure is brilliant because it forces us to shift away from failed strategies and toward ones that emphasize treatment and accountability. I’m thankful for this accountability, as it means our tax dollars won’t keep pouring into unsuccessful programs that burden everyone.
Fourth, it ensures that sex offenders receiving homelessness assistance aren’t housed in the same buildings as children, which is a common-sense protection for our most vulnerable families. This shows a thoughtful approach to housing that considers safety and prevents potential harm, and I strongly approve of this safeguard.
Overall, this order moves us from a “Housing First” model—that prioritizes housing without restrictions and has been a demonstrable failure—to a compassionate, treatment-focused alternative. Proponents like Future 42 and the Discovery Institute have been right all along: by tackling drug addiction and mental illness head-on, we can better serve the unhoused and improve our communities. I’ve seen how the affordability crisis spirals into homelessness, but ignoring the links to substance abuse only makes things worse. Trump’s action gives me hope that we’ll see real progress, with fewer people suffering on the streets and more pathways to recovery.
I’m so thankful to President Trump for this historic step forward—it’s exactly what Washington needs to turn the tide on homelessness.
— Samantha Syrnich TLC
NOT AFRAID – EMINEM
As someone who’s deeply passionate about stories of recovery and resilience, especially in the context of overcoming addiction and rebuilding lives like those affected by homelessness in Washington State, I absolutely love Eminem’s “Not Afraid.” This song is a powerful anthem that speaks to facing fears head-on, breaking free from personal demons, and stepping into a brighter future with strength and determination—it’s like a motivational blueprint for the treatment-first approach I support in Trump’s executive order. The raw lyrics and intense beat capture that moment of turning the page, inspiring anyone who’s struggled to believe in self-sufficiency and hope, and it perfectly complements messages of positive change. Check it out here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j5-yKhDd64s.
— Samantha Syrnich TLC
A Call for Respect: Acknowledging Our President’s Bold Vision
Even those who might not personally respect President Trump must come to realize that he is our President, the leader of this great nation at this pivotal time, and undeniably a smart man with the vision to make tough, necessary decisions. He deserves our respect for stepping up to tackle issues like homelessness with bold, effective policies, and I wholeheartedly respect him—as well as the new executive order he’s initiated to prioritize treatment, recovery, and community safety in Washington State.”
— Samantha Syrnich TLC
My Art: Trump_Homelessness_Recovery_Pathway_Graphic
The Phoenix Quill: Words Born of Fire, Inked in Truth 