A longtime California mayor is under fire after suggesting the federal government should “purge” homeless people—and that his city should give them “all the fentanyl they want.”
Key Facts: Lancaster mayor fentanyl controversy explained
- Lancaster Mayor R. Rex Parris said he wants to give homeless people “all the fentanyl they want” during a Feb. 25 city council meeting.
- The comments came during a discussion about creating a single homeless encampment on an old golf course.
- Parris later doubled down, suggesting a national “purge” of the homeless population.
- A recall petition is underway, but has only reached 6% of its goal so far.
- Parris claimed his comments were about homeless criminals, though he offered no supporting data.
Rest of the Story: Mayor Doubles Down on Fentanyl Remarks
During a tense city council meeting, Lancaster Mayor R. Rex Parris shocked attendees by suggesting that giving free fentanyl to homeless individuals might be a solution.
He said, “I want to give them all the fentanyl they want,” in response to a proposal to place homeless individuals into a centralized encampment near homes.
When a concerned resident said his idea “was not kind,” Parris didn’t back down.
Instead, he later told Fox 11 he was referring specifically to the “criminal element” among the homeless—those who refuse help and, according to him, commit a large share of the city’s crimes.
However, he failed to provide evidence for these claims.
Parris has a history of controversy, including extending his own term limits and previously suggesting a ban on neckties.
Despite public backlash and a recall effort gaining momentum, Parris said he has no regrets and believes his job is to protect the city’s working families.
A California mayor facing a recall, is under fire for suggesting giving homeless “all the fentanyl they want.”
Lancaster Mayor Rex Parris said during a city council meeting
When asked to repeat what he said, Parris reiterated “I want to give them all the fentanyl they want.” pic.twitter.com/iZV57ObVnw
— Kevin Dalton (@TheKevinDalton) April 19, 2025
Commentary: Why Mayor Should Be Recalled
California’s homelessness crisis is real and getting worse, particularly in cities like Lancaster.
Citizens are frustrated, and many are desperate for answers.
But Mayor Parris’ comments—whether meant literally or not—cross a line that no serious public official should entertain.
His call to “give them all the fentanyl they want” is not just outrageous—it’s dangerous.
Even as a rhetorical point, it implies giving up on the value of human life.
Instead of inspiring solutions, it fuels fear, resentment, and division.
If Parris meant to stir up attention, he succeeded.
His words have gone viral, sparked backlash, and launched a recall effort.
But attention doesn’t equal leadership.
Suggesting a “purge” of human beings, no matter their background, isn’t bold policy—it’s moral failure.
Yes, there is a criminal element among the homeless population, just as there is in any group.
Law enforcement must do its job.
But treating all homeless people as criminals or burdens to be removed is both unjust and ineffective.
The mayor’s job is to protect all citizens—yes, even the vulnerable.
Solutions should focus on rehabilitation, mental health care, drug treatment, and community safety.
Not blanket condemnation or calls for a federal “purge.”
Lancaster’s residents deserve real solutions, not soundbites.
If Mayor Parris is serious about fixing the crisis, he needs to offer ideas grounded in fact, compassion, and law—not shock value.
The Bottom Line: Mayor’s Reckless and Wrong Proposal
Mayor R. Rex Parris of Lancaster ignited a firestorm with remarks suggesting fentanyl distribution and a “purge” of the homeless.
While frustration with California’s homelessness crisis is understandable, his solution veers into reckless territory.
Leadership demands action—not outrage marketing.
Parris may have earned national headlines, but at what cost to his credibility, and more importantly, his city’s future?
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