The mayoral race in Sacramento is heating up as Dr. Flojaune ‘Flo’ Cofer and Assemblymember Kevin McCarty face off in a series of debates leading up to Election Day. In their first encounter at Tahoe Elementary School, the candidates presented contrasting approaches to key city issues, most notably policing and homelessness. Cofer, who describes herself as a visionary with executive leadership experience, aims for a reevaluation of city spending particularly in public safety. McCarty, with a decade of political experience, seeks to bolster the police department's funding.

During the debate, McCarty insisted on the necessity of a strong police presence. "I support properly funding our police department," he declared, expressing concerns over reduced personnel since his tenure on the City Council. However, Cofer was quick to refute insinuations that her policies would cut police staff. "My proposal was shifting the vacancies over, so we can have 24-hour response from the Department of Community Response and Code Enforcement which is not the police’s responsibility," Cofer stated at the debate as per ABC10. This marks a significant point of contention as the candidates prepare to convey their visions to Sacramento's electorate.

On the issue of homelessness, both candidates recognize the challenge but propose distinct solutions. McCarty is calling for an audit on the city's homelessness spending and is firm on enforcing a no camping ban to alleviate the problem. Cofer, on the other hand, emphasizes the need for innovative thinking and has praised the model of creating safe outdoor spaces, similar to Portland's Safe Rest Villages. The disagreement extended to Proposition 33, a rent control measure, which McCarty does not support and Cofer endorses.

An emotionally charged moment arose when Cofer addressed McCarty directly, as reported by CBS Sacramento. "There are some things that you have said that have really misrepresented me as a person," she expressed, decrying accusations of being radical in her approaches to tackling homelessness. McCarty countered by claiming his statements were reflective of her own words in past forums and interviews.

The candidates will have additional opportunities to present their platforms, as another mayoral forum is scheduled for September 12, hosted by CBS13's Julie Watts and organized by various community organizations.