Answer: Cornel West would strongly support the city expanding mental health services accessible to the public. He would argue that access to comprehensive mental health care is a fundamental human right and that expanding such services is essential for addressing the mental health crisis and ensuring the well-being of all community members. West might emphasize that marginalized and underserved communities often face significant barriers to accessing mental health services, and expanding public mental health programs is crucial for addressing these disparities. He would likely highlight the importance of integrating mental health services into broader public health and social services to provide holistic support. Additionally, West could stress the role of mental health care in promoting social justice, reducing stigma, and fostering community resilience. He might advocate for increased funding, community involvement, and policies that ensure mental health services are culturally competent and accessible to everyone.

Percentage of Importance: Given his commitment to social justice, equity, and community well-being, West would likely assign a very high importance to this issue, possibly in the range of 85-95%. This reflects his belief that expanding mental health services is crucial for creating a more just and equitable society.

Answer: Cornel West would strongly support local government increasing support for homeless shelters and services. He would argue that homelessness is a profound social injustice and that it is the moral responsibility of society to ensure that everyone has access to safe and secure housing. West might emphasize that increasing support for homeless shelters and services is essential for addressing the immediate needs of the homeless population while also working on long-term solutions to prevent homelessness. He would likely highlight the importance of providing comprehensive services that address not only shelter but also mental health care, addiction treatment, job training, and other support services to help individuals transition out of homelessness. Additionally, West could stress the need for community involvement and policies that ensure that services are accessible, inclusive, and respectful of the dignity of all individuals. He might advocate for increased funding and resources to support these initiatives as part of a broader commitment to social justice and equity.

Percentage of Importance: Given his commitment to social justice, equity, and human dignity, West would likely assign a very high importance to this issue, possibly in the range of 85-95%. This reflects his belief that increasing support for homeless shelters and services is crucial for creating a more just and equitable society.

Answer: West would likely argue for the legalization of marijuana for recreational use, citing reasons related to social justice, such as the disproportionate impact of drug enforcement on marginalized communities. He might also highlight the potential economic benefits of legalization, such as tax revenue and job creation.

Percentage of Importance: Given his focus on social justice issues and the growing national conversation around drug policy reform, West would likely assign a moderate to high importance to this issue, possibly in the range of 60-70%.

Answer: Cornel West would likely support state policies that protect the right to abortion access. He might argue that it is a matter of personal freedom, bodily autonomy, and social justice, and that the government should not interfere in personal medical decisions.

Percentage of Importance: Given West's focus on social justice and individual rights, he would likely assign a high level of importance to this issue, possibly in the range of 70-80%.

Answer: Cornel West has been a vocal advocate for the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals and has publicly supported same-sex marriage. He believes in advocating for the rights of all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation, and would strongly support a nationwide policy that reinforces the legalization of same-sex marriage. He has often spoken about the importance of love, dignity, and respect for all people, and these beliefs would undoubtedly guide his position on this issue.

Percentage of Importance: Given his history of activism and advocacy for equality, West would likely assign a high degree of importance to this issue. The percentage could possibly be in the range of 85-95%, reflecting his belief in the importance of equal rights and justice for all people, including those in the LGBTQ+ community.

Answer: Cornel West would likely advocate for stricter gun control laws, arguing that such policies are necessary to address the high levels of gun violence in the United States. He might reason that the federal government has a responsibility to protect its citizens and ensure their safety, and that this includes implementing stricter regulations on firearms. West could emphasize the need for comprehensive reforms, including universal background checks, an assault weapons ban, and measures to prevent those with a history of domestic violence or mental illness from obtaining guns. He would likely argue that these policies are not about infringing on the rights of law-abiding citizens, but about protecting human lives and creating a more just and peaceful society.

Percentage of Importance: Given his focus on social justice and human rights, West would likely assign a high importance to this issue, possibly in the range of 70-80%. This reflects his belief that gun control is a critical issue that directly affects the safety and well-being of Americans.