This vid has been making the rounds via Streetsblog Network member Beyond DC. In it we see candidate Obama tell a crowd in Toledo that the Death and Life of Great American Cities is "a great book" and delve into some talking points about the importance of cities to regional economies. Read into it what you will. To me it says advocates for cities and urbanism should hold our next President to a very high standard, because he knows his stuff.
Barack Obama
Campaign Flashback: Obama an Admirer of Jane Jacobs
By Ben Fried
Stay in touch
Sign up for our free newsletter
More from Streetsblog New York City
The ‘Affordability Crisis’ Conversation Can’t Leave Out the Cost of Cars
We can't talk about Americans' empty wallets without talking about our empty buses and sidewalks.
What Is A Life Worth In NYC? In Fatal Crashes, Sometimes Just $50
Drivers who kill pedestrians often face minimal punishment, a Streetsblog investigation found.
January 8, 2026
Thursday’s Headlines: ‘It’s Menin!’ Edition
The Council elected a new Speaker yesterday, but there was not much talk of transportation. Plus other news.
January 8, 2026
Two-Pronged Approach: City Will Appeal Judge’s Block on Astoria Bike Lane But Also Address Her Concerns
The city will appeal but will also complete a minor bureaucratic step that the Adams administration failed to complete, Streetsblog has learned.
January 7, 2026
Mamdani Says He Opposes Tisch’s Criminal Bike Crackdown — But It’s Apparently Still in Place
The mayor has criticized the crackdown in the past, but it's still in place.
January 7, 2026
Opinion: E-Bikes Are An Economic Boost That Cities Must Encourage
E-bikes and scooters are reshaping local retail markets by expanding who can reach neighborhood businesses with frequency, ease, and convenience.
January 7, 2026
