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De Blasio Calls Defund the Police a Mistake

3/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Bill de Blasio, the former New York City mayor, said on Sean Hannity's podcast that the Defund the Police movement was a mistake.
He added, "In retrospect, the whole concept of defund the police made no sense."
De Blasio's remarks reflect a departure from his earlier support for police budget cuts, including a billion-dollar reduction during his tenure.

History

Historical Context

Following George Floyd's murder on May 25, 2020, the Defund the Police movement gained momentum, prompting cities like Minneapolis to reevaluate policing strategies. On June 30, 2020, New York City Council approved a $1 billion budget cut to the NYPD, reflecting a national trend among progressive leaders advocating for police reform and community investment, amidst ongoing debates about public safety and systemic racism.

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Story summary

Bill de Blasio, the former New York City mayor, said on Sean Hannity's podcast that the Defund the Police movement was a mistake.
He added, "In retrospect, the whole concept of defund the police made no sense."
De Blasio's remarks reflect a departure from his earlier support for police budget cuts, including a billion-dollar reduction during his tenure.

1 / 2