Summary: Cities across the Bay Area have been jolted by a spree of retail thefts. On Monday, struggling Oakland cannabis merchants made a plea to city and state leaders for more protection — and a tax break. Chronicle reporter Rachel Swan joins host Cecilia Lei to explain their demands and how conversations about retail crime are becoming increasingly politicized. Get unlimited Chronicle access for 26 weeks for 99 cents: sfchronicle.com/pod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
