“

The solution to poverty exists: send people money, without preconditions or red tape. This is what pandemic-era programs like stimulus checks and the Child Tax Credit have demonstrated. And in a state of enormous wealth, it is a moral duty to ensure that poverty is eradicated once and for all.

Ras J. BarakaMayor, Newark, NJ

“

Poverty is the biggest issue. Everything we deal with stems from that. There’s so many people working incredibly hard, and if life happens, there’s no bottom.

Michael TubbsFormer Mayor, Stockton, CA

“

I support a guaranteed income because even before the COVID-19 pandemic, our low-income families and residents were living paycheck-to-paycheck, and were unable to save for an emergency or find a path out of poverty. A guaranteed income would invest in and support those families and residents during a time they need it most.

Sumbul SiddiquiFormer Mayor, Cambridge, MA

“

In a country that works for all of us, no one who works full-time should be stuck in poverty or worries about making ends meet. It’s time to reimagine and rethink our economic structures by piloting a guaranteed income.

Melvin CarterMayor, Saint Paul, MN

“

Rise Up Alameda is intended to support the financial stability of families, and I’m pleased to see that one year in, it is doing that and more. The mental health and community impacts underscore the fact that we all benefit when families in our city aren’t struggling to make ends meet. I am proud that Alameda is one of many cities in California leading the way in demonstrating the tremendous potential of unconditional cash.

Marilyn Ezzy AshcraftMayor, Alameda, CA

“

As someone who grew up relying on modest safety nets, I’ve seen firsthand what a lifeline direct cash can provide. In Ithaca, our pilot gave 110 unpaid caregivers $450 a month for a year—and people didn’t waste it. They spent nearly 40 % on food, 25% on retail and essentials, and almost 15% on critical financial needs like utilities, rent and medical bills. It boosted dignity, reduced stress, and let folks focus on caregiving and work—not just surviving. That kind of impact isn’t abstract—it’s life changing

Svante MyrickFormer Mayor, Ithaca, NY