Solana Beach Resident Speaks Out: “We Feel Vulnerable in Our Own Community”
Solana Beach resident John Young has voiced his concerns following a recent incident where a boat carrying illegal immigrants landed on the local beach. The event, which gained attention through a report by journalist Ben Bergquam, has left many in the coastal community feeling uneasy about their safety and the state of border security.
“As a resident here, we’re terrified,” Young said. “We don’t know who’s coming off those boats. It could be families, but it could also be drug dealers, traffickers, or even terrorists. Not knowing—and not having our beaches protected—is unacceptable.”
Young expressed frustration with what he described as lax policies at the state and federal levels. “I blame our governor for his lenient practices throughout the state,” he said. “We’re the United States of America. With all our technology—radars, satellites—it should be obvious when a random boat is cruising up from Tijuana or the border. But instead, they’re letting them land in private communities like ours.”
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Residents like Young are particularly concerned about the lack of proactive measures to address these incidents. “We pay a lot of money to live here,” he said. “We pay property taxes, and we expect protection. Right now, it feels like we’re not getting it.”
Young’s frustration extends to national leadership as well. He highlighted his support for former President Donald Trump and his border policies. “This is why I voted for Trump,” he explained. “He’s bold enough to say, ‘We’re going to protect our border.’ And really, what’s the problem with that? Every country protects their borders.”
Reflecting on past political dynamics, Young criticized what he viewed as political obstruction during Trump’s presidency. “He faced resistance from all sides—impeachments, investigations—you name it,” he said. “They weaponized the government against him. It was pretty obvious.”
For Young, these challenges underscore the need for stronger leadership and accountability. “We don’t worship our government; we worship God,” he said. “But here in California, even that seems taboo. Christianity feels under attack, just like our communities.”
Beyond border security, Young raised concerns about taxes and government spending. “I don’t mind paying taxes, but the way the government is spending them right now—what’s the point?” he asked. “Why work hard if our money is just going to people who don’t even belong here?”
As Solana Beach residents continue to grapple with the implications of the recent boat landing, Young hopes for change at the national level. “We need leadership that prioritizes security, common sense, and fairness,” he said. “Until then, we’re left hoping someone will step up and protect us.”
Young’s remarks echo a broader sentiment of frustration and vulnerability among residents in coastal communities dealing with similar incidents. For them, the need for decisive action and effective solutions has never been more urgent.