Compared to what? Afaik SF doesn't have the history of abject dependence on federal support that many 'Red' states have. SF is the hub of the technology world, which also seems like a success story any other states would wish for.
The crime is out of control. Many people leave their cars unlocked, because it will be more expensive when thieves break their windows anyway (which happens far often than in any other city).
It is entirely a result of unregulated capitalism in the tech sector. Not policy. San Fran policy needs to stop coddling the trillion dollar babies. SF in the 70's and 80's was fine before techbros came along.
How does 'unregulated capitalism' cause SF to allow the theft of up to $1000 with a minor warning/no jail time?
Another issue is high taxes in California (another left-wing idea). With taxes so high, the very rich are still rich and the middle class are living paycheck-to-paycheck essentially creating two classes: rich and poor. This is what happens in nearly every country that does this.
Makes me feel icky being on HN right now.