Baltimore's 7th Congressional District: Beyond Crime Rates and Political Controversies

Introduction to the District

The 7th congressional district of Maryland, represented by Elijah Cummings, is a notable area that encompasses a mix of urban, suburban, and rural areas. This district is particularly significant as it stands out as the second wealthiest black district in the state. Major employers and a high proportion of college graduates contribute to its economic and educational landscape.

Myth Busting Donald Trump's Insults

Despite Donald Trump's unflattering and disparaging comments about Baltimore and its residents, a closer examination reveals that his criticisms are far from accurate. Trump, who resides in Manhattan, often suffers from a skewed perception of reality. For instance, it has been reported that his famous NYC eateries were written up for issues related to live mice and other critical health code violations.

Crime Rates in Baltimore

Barely 153% higher than the national average, Baltimore's crime rate is a cause for concern. In a city of 100,000 inhabitants, about 19.06 daily crimes occur. However, Baltimore remains safer than only two other U.S. cities. The chance of becoming a victim of crime in Baltimore is one in fifteen, which, while concerning, is not as dire as one might expect from the headlines.

Addressing Large City Issues

Large cities like Baltimore face common challenges such as homelessness, litter, and corruption within police agencies. These issues are not unique to Baltimore but are prevalent across metropolitan areas. Property owners are generally fined and notified when their properties fall short of maintenance standards. Laws and regulations are in place to guide these issues, but their effectiveness relies on the cooperation and responsibility of property owners.

The Role of Jared Kushner

One of the most controversial elements in this discussion centers around Jared Kushner. The son-in-law of President Donald Trump, with an active role in decision-making for nearly 9,000 units of housing, has come under scrutiny for property neglect. The Kushner Companies have been fined for hundreds of building code violations, suggesting intentional harm rather than simple ignorance or negligence.

Implications for Public Policy

The actions of property owners, such as Jared Kushner, can have serious implications for public health and safety. Once a property owner is aware of a problem and intentionally neglects it, it becomes a matter of intentional harm. If they were unaware or had never inspected the properties, it would be classified as negligence. The repeated notifications and fines suggest that Jared and his wife Ivanka have not only been aware but have also chosen to ignore these issues.

Conclusion

Baltimore's 7th congressional district, under Elijah Cummings' representation, is a complex tapestry of socioeconomic diversity and challenges. While crime rates are higher than the national average, this issue is shared by many major cities. The controversies surrounding Jared Kushner and the Kushner Companies highlight the broader issues of responsibility and intentional harm in property maintenance and management. These discussions underscore the ongoing need for public policy and regulatory frameworks that hold all stakeholders accountable for maintaining safe and viable living conditions.