Joe Fitzgerald Rodriguez

Running as the lone progressive Democratic candidate in one of the nation’s most progressive cities arguably should make you a shoo-in for any office.

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Running as the lone progressive Democratic candidate in one of the nation’s most progressive cities arguably should make you a shoo-in for any office.

But Supervisor Aaron Peskin has had an easier time <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aaronpeskin2024/reel/C_tjUdHSewc/">swimming the briny bay from Alcatraz to shore</a> than he has building a winning coalition for San Francisco mayor.

But Supervisor Aaron Peskin has had an easier time <a href="https://www.instagram.com/aaronpeskin2024/reel/C_tjUdHSewc/">swimming the briny bay from Alcatraz to shore</a> than he has building a winning coalition for San Francisco mayor.

Peskin hasn’t consistently cracked the top two vote-getters in polls this entire election season. Only now, as moderate Democrat candidates <a href="https://www.sfexaminer.com/news/politics/sf-progressives-see-mayoral-chance-amid-moderate-infighting/article_7816b3be-9582-11ef-8676-3bcbd3e547ee.html">barrage each other in a siege of attack ads</a>, has Peskin nudged toward the top three choices in recent polls.

Peskin hasn’t consistently cracked the top two vote-getters in polls this entire election season. Only now, as moderate Democrat candidates <a href="https://www.sfexaminer.com/news/politics/sf-progressives-see-mayoral-chance-amid-moderate-infighting/article_7816b3be-9582-11ef-8676-3bcbd3e547ee.html">barrage each other in a siege of attack ads</a>, has Peskin nudged toward the top three choices in recent polls.

So what are the chains holding Peskin down?

So what are the chains holding Peskin down?

Is he being buried in an avalanche of billionaire money? <a href="https://missionlocal.org/2024/10/michael-moritz-san-francisco-togethersf-sf-elections-crankstart/">They’re trying</a>. Has his years-old, salacious reputation for bullying hung like an albatross around his neck? <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/article/aaron-peskin-mayoral-race-19628544.php">His high negative rating</a> in polls shows there’s some truth to that. Or is it just plain tough for an older white guy to light up progressives when Vice President Kamala Harris, a multiracial woman of color, is top of the ticket? OK, maybe that too.

Is he being buried in an avalanche of billionaire money? <a href="https://missionlocal.org/2024/10/michael-moritz-san-francisco-togethersf-sf-elections-crankstart/">They’re trying</a>. Has his years-old, salacious reputation for bullying hung like an albatross around his neck? <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/article/aaron-peskin-mayoral-race-19628544.php">His high negative rating</a> in polls shows there’s some truth to that. Or is it just plain tough for an older white guy to light up progressives when Vice President Kamala Harris, a multiracial woman of color, is top of the ticket? OK, maybe that too.

Still, all of those challenges may have been surmountable if Peskin wrapped his hands around the right message. Instead, one of Peskin’s key issues is frozen in time: protecting renters.

Still, all of those challenges may have been surmountable if Peskin wrapped his hands around the right message. Instead, one of Peskin’s key issues is frozen in time: protecting renters.

Tenant organizers, former lawmakers, and housing production advocates told The Standard that Peskin may be missing the mark touting rent control and “responsible density” as residents <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/article/san-francisco-city-poll-19628724.php">cite affordability as one of their top concerns</a> and as the tenants movement itself is in a downswing. Let’s draw a distinction here: It isn’t that tenant protections aren’t needed or that Peskin’s work won’t help people. This is about what message is top of San Franciscans’ minds.

Tenant organizers, former lawmakers, and housing production advocates told The Standard that Peskin may be missing the mark touting rent control and “responsible density” as residents <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/article/san-francisco-city-poll-19628724.php">cite affordability as one of their top concerns</a> and as the tenants movement itself is in a downswing. Let’s draw a distinction here: It isn’t that tenant protections aren’t needed or that Peskin’s work won’t help people. This is about what message is top of San Franciscans’ minds.

Peskin is campaigning on his tenant protection record — which is admittedly quite extensive — but it hasn’t launched him to the front of the pack.

Peskin is campaigning on his tenant protection record — which is admittedly quite extensive — but it hasn’t launched him to the front of the pack.

One of his signature successes, rent control, is an easy example of a message that may have lost its shine. What help is preventing rent increases when you already pay half your salary just to hang onto your apartment?

One of his signature successes, rent control, is an easy example of a message that may have lost its shine. What help is preventing rent increases when you already pay half your salary just to hang onto your apartment?

Peskin’s political compass was forged in the fires of the first dot-com boom’s red-hot rental market. In 1999, a single phrase could send chills down a San Franciscan’s spine: Ellis Act eviction.

Peskin’s political compass was forged in the fires of the first dot-com boom’s red-hot rental market. In 1999, a single phrase could send chills down a San Franciscan’s spine: Ellis Act eviction.

In a city that has mostly constrained landlords’ ability to evict tenants who pay their rent on time and who play by the rules, the state Ellis Act allows landlords to pull their apartment buildings off the market, often to sell them as condos. When tech workers first bum-rushed the gold in San Francisco’s hills, many landlords saw dollar signs in their eyes.

In a city that has mostly constrained landlords’ ability to evict tenants who pay their rent on time and who play by the rules, the state Ellis Act allows landlords to pull their apartment buildings off the market, often to sell them as condos. When tech workers first bum-rushed the gold in San Francisco’s hills, many landlords saw dollar signs in their eyes.

Aaron Peskin, the President of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors representing District 3, is speaks during a rally announcing his run for mayor of San Francisco on Saturday, April 6, 2024.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/peskin-12.jpg?w=2500" alt="A crowd at a political rally with &quot;AARON&quot; signs, listening to a speaker at a podium." class="wp-image-265545"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Aaron Peskin, San Francisco Board of Supervisors president representing District 3, speaks during a rally announcing his run for mayor of San Francisco on April 6, 2024.</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/peskin-12.jpg?w=2500" alt="A crowd at a political rally with &quot;AARON&quot; signs, listening to a speaker at a podium." class="wp-image-265545"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Aaron Peskin, San Francisco Board of Supervisors president representing District 3, speaks during a rally announcing his run for mayor of San Francisco on April 6, 2024.</figcaption></figure>

In San Francisco, tech booms are eviction booms. Rent board data shows evictions nearly doubling the year before each of Peskin’s most hard-fought elections, first in 2000, then again in 2015.

In San Francisco, tech booms are eviction booms. Rent board data shows evictions nearly doubling the year before each of Peskin’s most hard-fought elections, first in 2000, then again in 2015.

“There was this incredible consciousness that affected the politics of the city around protecting tenants during those years, and that is not true today,” said Randy Shaw, executive director of the Tenderloin Housing Clinic.

“There was this incredible consciousness that affected the politics of the city around protecting tenants during those years, and that is not true today,” said Randy Shaw, executive director of the Tenderloin Housing Clinic.

In those years, evictions were like a bat-signal, and Peskin was a vigilante swooping down to “BAM!” “ZAP!” “POW!” scurrilous landlords.

In those years, evictions were like a bat-signal, and Peskin was a vigilante swooping down to “BAM!” “ZAP!” “POW!” scurrilous landlords.

A quarter century ago, when Peskin’s hair was still jet black, the then-president of the Telegraph Hill Dwellers protected the area around a special hill known for wild parrots and stunning views. That led the burgeoning firebrand to rally alongside Asian American civil rights and housing groups — like the Asian Law Caucus and the Chinatown Community Development Center — to protect tenants of 1345 Grant Ave. against an infamous, <a href="https://www.sfgate.com/news/article/ELDERLY-TENANTS-BATTLE-EVICTION-3059249.php">headline-grabbing Ellis Act eviction</a>. Kwong Choy, a 65-year-old gardener, feared his family might be evicted not only from their apartment, but from the city altogether.

A quarter century ago, when Peskin’s hair was still jet black, the then-president of the Telegraph Hill Dwellers protected the area around a special hill known for wild parrots and stunning views. That led the burgeoning firebrand to rally alongside Asian American civil rights and housing groups — like the Asian Law Caucus and the Chinatown Community Development Center — to protect tenants of 1345 Grant Ave. against an infamous, <a href="https://www.sfgate.com/news/article/ELDERLY-TENANTS-BATTLE-EVICTION-3059249.php">headline-grabbing Ellis Act eviction</a>. Kwong Choy, a 65-year-old gardener, feared his family might be evicted not only from their apartment, but from the city altogether.

Peskin and the alliance of Asian American groups won. During his first campaign for supervisor, Peskin seized that momentum.

Peskin and the alliance of Asian American groups won. During his first campaign for supervisor, Peskin seized that momentum.

Peskin’s flyers dubbed him “the renter’s choice.”

Peskin’s flyers dubbed him “the renter’s choice.”

Aaron Peskin for District 3 supervisor flyer

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/a-peskin-renters-choice-2048x1750-2.jpg?w=2500" alt="An old flyer shows Aaron Peskin with black hair on the left, and reads &quot;Aaron Peskin for District 3 Supervisor, the renter's choice.&quot;" class="wp-image-324330"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Aaron Peskin for District 3 supervisor flyer</figcaption></figure>

“He’s the candidate who really got involved in the community. Who understands the community’s need for housing, quality of life,” said Wing Hoo Leung, president of the Community Tenants Association, who remembers Peskin’s long-defense of Chinese renters.

“He’s the candidate who really got involved in the community. Who understands the community’s need for housing, quality of life,” said Wing Hoo Leung, president of the Community Tenants Association, who remembers Peskin’s long-defense of Chinese renters.

And make no bones about it: When he won, Peskin continued delivering for renters.

And make no bones about it: When he won, Peskin continued delivering for renters.

He cosponsored more than a dozen laws to protect tenants in his first two terms in office, many of which were successful: codifying tenants’ rights to distribute communications to other tenants to organize, limiting the amount of construction costs landlords could pass through to tenants, requiring tenants be paid when evicted under the Ellis Act, and more.

He cosponsored more than a dozen laws to protect tenants in his first two terms in office, many of which were successful: codifying tenants’ rights to distribute communications to other tenants to organize, limiting the amount of construction costs landlords could pass through to tenants, requiring tenants be paid when evicted under the Ellis Act, and more.

Peskin was the chief author of most of those laws. His competitors in the mayor’s race? Their legislative histories for tenants’ rights are as thin as an eviction slip.

Peskin was the chief author of most of those laws. His competitors in the mayor’s race? Their legislative histories for tenants’ rights are as thin as an eviction slip.

But there’s a flip side to that record. And how San Franciscans view it would slowly shift over time.

But there’s a flip side to that record. And how San Franciscans view it would slowly shift over time.

In 1999, fighting developers — and the homes they would build — was broadly seen as anti-gentrification. Defending the little guy. The now-defunct progressive newspaper, the <a href="https://www.abebooks.it/riviste-giornali/San-Francisco-Bay-Guardian-Vol-September/31439127323/bd#&amp;gid=1&amp;pid=1">San Francisco Bay Guardian</a> (may she rest in peace), even coined a word for the specter of towering developments: Manhattanization.

In 1999, fighting developers — and the homes they would build — was broadly seen as anti-gentrification. Defending the little guy. The now-defunct progressive newspaper, the <a href="https://www.abebooks.it/riviste-giornali/San-Francisco-Bay-Guardian-Vol-September/31439127323/bd#&amp;gid=1&amp;pid=1">San Francisco Bay Guardian</a> (may she rest in peace), even coined a word for the specter of towering developments: Manhattanization.

If Manhattanization was the villain, Peskin was King Kong.

If Manhattanization was the villain, Peskin was King Kong.

In 1999, Peskin was president of the Telegraph Hill Dwellers, a neighborhood group swatting back development. In its newsletter, “<a href="https://archive.org/details/thesemaphore1999winter150/page/n5/mode/2up?view=theater">Semaphore</a>,” Peskin touted the group’s latest win that year. “We saved the Colombo Building (at 1 Columbus Ave.) from the wrecker’s ball,” he wrote, preventing the construction of a condominium project. He trumpeted the Dwellers’ success enacting nearby 40-foot height limits to prevent dense development.

In 1999, Peskin was president of the Telegraph Hill Dwellers, a neighborhood group swatting back development. In its newsletter, “<a href="https://archive.org/details/thesemaphore1999winter150/page/n5/mode/2up?view=theater">Semaphore</a>,” Peskin touted the group’s latest win that year. “We saved the Colombo Building (at 1 Columbus Ave.) from the wrecker’s ball,” he wrote, preventing the construction of a condominium project. He trumpeted the Dwellers’ success enacting nearby 40-foot height limits to prevent dense development.

Grant Ave Mr Choy Ellis Act eviction 1999 dotcom fight

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/grant-ave-building-2.jpg?w=2500" alt="A photo of an apartment building with protest signs hanging out of it reading &quot;save our homes!&quot; " class="wp-image-324333"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The tenants of a Grant Avenue home protest their landlord&#8217;s proposed Ellis Act eviction in 1999.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/grant-ave-building-2.jpg?w=2500" alt="A photo of an apartment building with protest signs hanging out of it reading &quot;save our homes!&quot; " class="wp-image-324333"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The tenants of a Grant Avenue home protest their landlord's proposed Ellis Act eviction in 1999.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/grant-ave-building-2.jpg?w=2500" alt="A photo of an apartment building with protest signs hanging out of it reading &quot;save our homes!&quot; " class="wp-image-324333"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The tenants of a Grant Avenue home protest their landlord&#8217;s proposed Ellis Act eviction in 1999.</figcaption></figure>

As supervisor, Peskin co-sponsored 2002’s Proposition D, which stripped some Planning Commission appointments from the mayor’s office, and gave them to the Board of Supervisors. It’s perhaps one of the most transformative moments in the city’s housing history, helping progressives pump the brakes on approvals for new home developments for the sake of public input. Then-Mayor Willie Brown clocked the measure as a choke point throttling new housing construction.

As supervisor, Peskin co-sponsored 2002’s Proposition D, which stripped some Planning Commission appointments from the mayor’s office, and gave them to the Board of Supervisors. It’s perhaps one of the most transformative moments in the city’s housing history, helping progressives pump the brakes on approvals for new home developments for the sake of public input. Then-Mayor Willie Brown clocked the measure as a choke point throttling new housing construction.

Brown called voters “<a href="https://www.sfgate.com/politics/article/At-meeting-Brown-calls-S-F-voters-2768017.php">ass-backward”</a> for supporting the change. They had sided with Peskin.

Brown called voters “<a href="https://www.sfgate.com/politics/article/At-meeting-Brown-calls-S-F-voters-2768017.php">ass-backward”</a> for supporting the change. They had sided with Peskin.

Decades later, studies would show San Francisco takes as long as 34 months to approve new housing that other cities move forward automatically. California government would <a href="https://www.kqed.org/news/11965492/san-francisco-takes-forever-to-approve-new-housing-california-officials-are-forcing-change">call out the ability</a> for a single San Franciscan to stall the construction of new housing.

Decades later, studies would show San Francisco takes as long as 34 months to approve new housing that other cities move forward automatically. California government would <a href="https://www.kqed.org/news/11965492/san-francisco-takes-forever-to-approve-new-housing-california-officials-are-forcing-change">call out the ability</a> for a single San Franciscan to stall the construction of new housing.

The housing affordability crisis flipped the anti-development conversation on its head.

The housing affordability crisis flipped the anti-development conversation on its head.

As rent soared higher than the tilting Millennium Tower, affordability became the issue on tenants’ lips. San Francisco YIMBY harnessed that frustration (yes, aided by <a href="https://inthesetimes.com/features/yimbys_activists_san_francisco_housing_crisis.html">heaps of cash spent by developers</a>) to promote a simple message: Build more housing and rental prices will drop. San Francisco YIMBY Organizing Director Jane Natoli noted Peskin never shifted his messaging to meet that new reality.

As rent soared higher than the tilting Millennium Tower, affordability became the issue on tenants’ lips. San Francisco YIMBY harnessed that frustration (yes, aided by <a href="https://inthesetimes.com/features/yimbys_activists_san_francisco_housing_crisis.html">heaps of cash spent by developers</a>) to promote a simple message: Build more housing and rental prices will drop. San Francisco YIMBY Organizing Director Jane Natoli noted Peskin never shifted his messaging to meet that new reality.

“I think that’s one of the challenges Peskin faces, right? He’s been around a long time. He knows a lot of people, so he’s shaped a lot [of politics], but those forces have also shaped him. And that makes it harder to cast yourself in a different light,” Natoli said.

“I think that’s one of the challenges Peskin faces, right? He’s been around a long time. He knows a lot of people, so he’s shaped a lot [of politics], but those forces have also shaped him. And that makes it harder to cast yourself in a different light,” Natoli said.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/grant-ave-protest-2.jpg?w=2500" alt="A 1990's photograph of an elderly woman speaking from a microphone outside a home with protesters and Aaron Peskin standing around her." class="wp-image-324334"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Aaron Peskin, left, in 1999 stands in solidarity with tenants under threat of Ellis Act eviction on Grant Avenue.</figcaption></figure>

Now, fighting developers isn’t seen as anti-gentrification by a broad swath of the electorate. Voters have — <a href="https://ballotpedia.org/Scott_Wiener">in large numbers</a> — elected state Sen. Scott Wiener and Mayor London Breed on a message of housing production. Whether you agree with the argument or not, many voters now view fighting development as a backwards move that keeps rental prices high.

Now, fighting developers isn’t seen as anti-gentrification by a broad swath of the electorate. Voters have — <a href="https://ballotpedia.org/Scott_Wiener">in large numbers</a> — elected state Sen. Scott Wiener and Mayor London Breed on a message of housing production. Whether you agree with the argument or not, many voters now view fighting development as a backwards move that keeps rental prices high.

And today, not enough renters feel threatened by evictions to make Peskin’s renter-friendly record resonate.

And today, not enough renters feel threatened by evictions to make Peskin’s renter-friendly record resonate.

Again, rent board data points the way. Evictions are far lower than they were during the twin dot-com booms that twice propelled Peskin to office — in fact, they’re down by roughly two-thirds. Since the pandemic, the rental market has largely cooled. There are fewer landlord-leery headlines, spurring fewer rallying activists to hoist “AARON FOR MAYOR!” signs.

Again, rent board data points the way. Evictions are far lower than they were during the twin dot-com booms that twice propelled Peskin to office — in fact, they’re down by roughly two-thirds. Since the pandemic, the rental market has largely cooled. There are fewer landlord-leery headlines, spurring fewer rallying activists to hoist “AARON FOR MAYOR!” signs.

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California Working Party State Director Jane Kim, a former San Francisco supervisor and Peskin ally, wonders if progressives succeeded to their own political detriment. Is 2024 simply a cooler economic moment? Or did progressive Democrats write so many tenant protection laws that folks are not as energized to fight developers?

California Working Party State Director Jane Kim, a former San Francisco supervisor and Peskin ally, wonders if progressives succeeded to their own political detriment. Is 2024 simply a cooler economic moment? Or did progressive Democrats write so many tenant protection laws that folks are not as energized to fight developers?

“I’ve been asking myself that question the last two years,” Kim said. On the issue of housing, “did we win everything that the voters had an appetite for on the progressive agenda?”

“I’ve been asking myself that question the last two years,” Kim said. On the issue of housing, “did we win everything that the voters had an appetite for on the progressive agenda?”

Whatever the reason, the current simmer in the tenants’ movement can be seen with your own eyeballs.

Whatever the reason, the current simmer in the tenants’ movement can be seen with your own eyeballs.

Just a few weeks ago in the Board of Supervisors’ ornate City Hall chambers, Peskin advanced legislation that may expand rent control from housing constructed through 1979 to housing constructed through 1994.

Just a few weeks ago in the Board of Supervisors’ ornate City Hall chambers, Peskin advanced legislation that may expand rent control from housing constructed through 1979 to housing constructed through 1994.

If the legislation were on the docket at the start of Peskin’s rise at the turn of the millennium, tenants would have packed the house. Activists would have overflowed into the hallways, blowing whistles and waggling picket signs.

If the legislation were on the docket at the start of Peskin’s rise at the turn of the millennium, tenants would have packed the house. Activists would have overflowed into the hallways, blowing whistles and waggling picket signs.

Instead, tenant organizations sent supportive emails. Ten people sparsely dotted the pew-like benches in the Board of Supervisors’ legislative chamber.

Instead, tenant organizations sent supportive emails. Ten people sparsely dotted the pew-like benches in the Board of Supervisors’ legislative chamber.

After much political teeth-gnashing and an amendment to shrink its scope, the Board of Supervisors <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/10/09/new-law-would-expand-san-francisco-rent-control-but-theres-a-big-catch/">voted to back Peskin’s legislation unanimously</a>, 11-0.

New law would expand San Francisco rent control, but there’s a big catch

After much political teeth-gnashing and an amendment to shrink its scope, the Board of Supervisors <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/10/09/new-law-would-expand-san-francisco-rent-control-but-theres-a-big-catch/">voted to back Peskin’s legislation unanimously</a>, 11-0.

Ultimately, if California voters approve rent control reform, Peskin’s legislation may expand rent control to 16,000 more San Francisco tenants. It may be the most sweeping rental protection Peskin has authored — out of dozens of such protections — in 24 years.

Ultimately, if California voters approve rent control reform, Peskin’s legislation may expand rent control to 16,000 more San Francisco tenants. It may be the most sweeping rental protection Peskin has authored — out of dozens of such protections — in 24 years.

Not a single tenant spoke on the effort’s behalf.

Not a single tenant spoke on the effort’s behalf.

The silence speaks more to Peskin’s troubles than any poll shows.

The silence speaks more to Peskin’s troubles than any poll shows.

Senator Scott Wiener, right, speaks during a press conference announcing revisions to Senate Bill 50 the "More HOMES Act" on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2020 in Oakland, Calif.  | Aric Crabb/MediaNews Group/The Mercury News via Getty Images

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/GettyImages-1204665476-scaled.jpg?w=2500" alt="A headshot of Scott Wiener and a protest sign held by someone else reading I LOVE MORE HOMES!" class="wp-image-69586"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Senator Scott Wiener, right, speaks during a press conference announcing revisions to Senate Bill 50 the &#8220;More HOMES Act&#8221; on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2020 in Oakland, Calif. | Aric Crabb/MediaNews Group/The Mercury News via Getty Images</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/GettyImages-1204665476-scaled.jpg?w=2500" alt="A headshot of Scott Wiener and a protest sign held by someone else reading I LOVE MORE HOMES!" class="wp-image-69586"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Senator Scott Wiener, right, speaks during a press conference announcing revisions to Senate Bill 50 the "More HOMES Act" on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2020 in Oakland, Calif. | Aric Crabb/MediaNews Group/The Mercury News via Getty Images</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/GettyImages-1204665476-scaled.jpg?w=2500" alt="A headshot of Scott Wiener and a protest sign held by someone else reading I LOVE MORE HOMES!" class="wp-image-69586"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Senator Scott Wiener, right, speaks during a press conference announcing revisions to Senate Bill 50 the &#8220;More HOMES Act&#8221; on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2020 in Oakland, Calif. | Aric Crabb/MediaNews Group/The Mercury News via Getty Images</figcaption></figure>

Peskin himself acknowledges the rental dynamics that have been the wind at progressives’ backs.

Peskin himself acknowledges the rental dynamics that have been the wind at progressives’ backs.

“When people see their neighbors, who are part of their community, getting literally put out on the curb, it’s very immediate and it’s very visceral and it’s very real. And there’s less of that happening at this moment,” Peskin told The Standard.

“When people see their neighbors, who are part of their community, getting literally put out on the curb, it’s very immediate and it’s very visceral and it’s very real. And there’s less of that happening at this moment,” Peskin told The Standard.

But he contends the outsize political spending against him is juicing fear in the electorate, adding, “there are no billionaires spending millions of dollars telling everybody that they’re about to be evicted, but there are billionaires who are spending millions of dollars telling people that they’re not safe.”

But he contends the outsize political spending against him is juicing fear in the electorate, adding, “there are no billionaires spending millions of dollars telling everybody that they’re about to be evicted, but there are billionaires who are spending millions of dollars telling people that they’re not safe.”

Despite <a href="https://missionlocal.org/2024/10/michael-moritz-san-francisco-togethersf-sf-elections-crankstart/">billionaire opposition</a>, Peskin is as laser-focused on keeping tenants housed as ever. His tenant protection positions have hardly budged a single city block. As if to underscore that point, just last week, one of Peskin’s latest mayoral election mailers hit this reporter’s mailbox.

Despite <a href="https://missionlocal.org/2024/10/michael-moritz-san-francisco-togethersf-sf-elections-crankstart/">billionaire opposition</a>, Peskin is as laser-focused on keeping tenants housed as ever. His tenant protection positions have hardly budged a single city block. As if to underscore that point, just last week, one of Peskin’s latest mayoral election mailers hit this reporter’s mailbox.

“RENTER’S CHOICE” was splashed across the glossy page — the same slogan he touted in his first race, 24 years ago.

“RENTER’S CHOICE” was splashed across the glossy page — the same slogan he touted in his first race, 24 years ago.

Mayoral candidate and supervisor Aaron Peskin bills himself as a progressive standard bearer. But from his support to police to his positive view toward conservatorship, Peskin doesn't fit the mold of progressive stalwarts, nationally or locally. So what's so progressive about Peskin anyway? His anti-corporate stances and tenant protections are at the heart of his allyship with SF progressives. We explore how that may not be enough to help his campaign make its landing. 

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20241009-peskinprogressive_inline.png?w=2500" alt="A modern flyer for Peskin's mayoral candidacy reading &quot;renter's choice.&quot;" class="wp-image-327205"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A flyer touting Supervisor Aaron Peskin&#8217;s mayoral campaign echoes his messaging from his Board of Supervisors campaign in 2000. </figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20241009-peskinprogressive_inline.png?w=2500" alt="A modern flyer for Peskin's mayoral candidacy reading &quot;renter's choice.&quot;" class="wp-image-327205"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A flyer touting Supervisor Aaron Peskin's mayoral campaign echoes his messaging from his Board of Supervisors campaign in 2000. </figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20241009-peskinprogressive_inline.png?w=2500" alt="A modern flyer for Peskin's mayoral candidacy reading &quot;renter's choice.&quot;" class="wp-image-327205"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A flyer touting Supervisor Aaron Peskin&#8217;s mayoral campaign echoes his messaging from his Board of Supervisors campaign in 2000. </figcaption></figure>

Why Aaron Peskin’s progressive cred may not be enough to win

Gabe Greschler

Just over a month after his <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/06/aaron-peskin-mayoral-campaign-launch/">entrance</a> into the hotly contested mayor’s race, Board President Aaron Peskin has spun up the progressive fundraising wheels.

Aaron Peskin vows to lead San Francisco&#8217;s &#8216;recovery&#8217; in mayoral campaign kickoff

Just over a month after his <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/06/aaron-peskin-mayoral-campaign-launch/">entrance</a> into the hotly contested mayor’s race, Board President Aaron Peskin has spun up the progressive fundraising wheels.

Will it be enough to compete in a field of moderates backed by big tech and philanthropic moguls?&nbsp;

Will it be enough to compete in a field of moderates backed by big tech and philanthropic moguls?&nbsp;

Since announcing his campaign in April, Peskin has pulled in about $150,000 in donations, according to figures shared by the campaign with The Standard on Monday.

Since announcing his campaign in April, Peskin has pulled in about $150,000 in donations, according to figures shared by the campaign with The Standard on Monday.

Peskin&#8217;s spokesperson Kaitlyn Conway said the money comes from roughly 550 contributors, averaging between $200 and $250. The donation cap is set at $500 for candidate campaigns.

Peskin's spokesperson Kaitlyn Conway said the money comes from roughly 550 contributors, averaging between $200 and $250. The donation cap is set at $500 for candidate campaigns.

Peskin&#8217;s spokesperson Kaitlyn Conway said the money comes from roughly 550 contributors, averaging between $200 and $250. The donation cap is set at $500 for candidate campaigns.

Conway did not share the percentage of donations from San Francisco residents. However, she said the campaign intends to receive public financing, which is partially determined by local contributions. Public financing would allow Peskin to get over $1 million in extra cash. Qualifying mayoral candidates can receive an initial $300,000 in public financing before matching funds kick in based on donations.

Conway did not share the percentage of donations from San Francisco residents. However, she said the campaign intends to receive public financing, which is partially determined by local contributions. Public financing would allow Peskin to get over $1 million in extra cash. Qualifying mayoral candidates can receive an initial $300,000 in public financing before matching funds kick in based on donations.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/peskin-13.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man makes an announcement behind a podium." class="wp-image-265546"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Board President Aaron Peskin speaks during his campaign kickoff last month.</figcaption></figure>

Peskin’s campaign will also likely be buoyed by an independent committee, which isn’t hampered by donation caps, a model that has already pushed big pools of cash toward Peskin’s opponents.&nbsp;

Peskin’s campaign will also likely be buoyed by an independent committee, which isn’t hampered by donation caps, a model that has already pushed big pools of cash toward Peskin’s opponents.&nbsp;

Conway described the fundraising strategy as a grassroots effort targeting smaller donors.&nbsp;

Conway described the fundraising strategy as a grassroots effort targeting smaller donors.&nbsp;

“We are just trying to reach out to everyday San Franciscans to make sure their voices are getting heard,” she said. “Whether it is $25 or $50, every dollar helps at this point.”&nbsp;

“We are just trying to reach out to everyday San Franciscans to make sure their voices are getting heard,” she said. “Whether it is $25 or $50, every dollar helps at this point.”&nbsp;

The campaign’s fundraising strategy is in many ways reflective of Peskin’s rhetorical arguments for why he should win in a field of moderates at a time when voters are frustrated with the direction of the city.&nbsp;

The campaign’s fundraising strategy is in many ways reflective of Peskin’s rhetorical arguments for why he should win in a field of moderates at a time when voters are frustrated with the direction of the city.&nbsp;

Since entering the race, Peskin has cast himself as rejecting the influence of big-money donors, whether it be crypto billionaire <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/24/chris-larsen-ripple-crypto-san-francisco-mayor-breed/">Chris Larsen’s</a> support for Mayor London Breed or nonprofit leader and Levi’s heir Daniel Lurie’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/04/san-francisco-mayor-election-daniel-lurie-wealth/">wealthy background</a>. Critics, however, have painted Peskin as having crafted policy that has made it more difficult to make progress on issues like housing, thus benefiting the city’s landowners.

Crypto billionaire Chris Larsen showers cash on London Breed—and scorn on her foes

Daniel Lurie may be the richest person to ever run for mayor of SF. What does he own?

Since entering the race, Peskin has cast himself as rejecting the influence of big-money donors, whether it be crypto billionaire <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/24/chris-larsen-ripple-crypto-san-francisco-mayor-breed/">Chris Larsen’s</a> support for Mayor London Breed or nonprofit leader and Levi’s heir Daniel Lurie’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/04/san-francisco-mayor-election-daniel-lurie-wealth/">wealthy background</a>. Critics, however, have painted Peskin as having crafted policy that has made it more difficult to make progress on issues like housing, thus benefiting the city’s landowners.

Former interim mayor Mark Farrell, center, and philanthropist Daniel Lurie, up from the right, attend the rally.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/img_1705.jpg?w=2500" alt="A group of people holding protest signs, one reads &quot;SAFETY IS A HUMAN RIGHT&quot;." class="wp-image-261771"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Former Supervisor Mark Farrell, center, and nonprofit leader Daniel Lurie, up from the right, have both raised considerable sums in their campaigns for mayor.</figcaption></figure>

Although Peskin’s figures are comparatively smaller than some of his moderate rivals, political experts said it is in line with what they expect from his supporters, who they described as part of a more working- to middle-class coalition of San Franciscans.

Although Peskin’s figures are comparatively smaller than some of his moderate rivals, political experts said it is in line with what they expect from his supporters, who they described as part of a more working- to middle-class coalition of San Franciscans.

Since jumping into the race last year, Lurie saw a quick injection of about $230,000 in under two weeks, according to announcements at the time from his campaign. Sixty-one percent of the 635 donations were from San Francisco residents, the campaign said.

Since jumping into the race last year, Lurie saw a quick injection of about $230,000 in under two weeks, according to announcements at the time from his campaign. Sixty-one percent of the 635 donations were from San Francisco residents, the campaign said.

Former Supervisor Mark Farrell, who has carved out a lane as a pro-business, tough-on-crime candidate, was able to haul in <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/13/san-francisco-mayor-election-mark-farrell-fundraising/">over $350,000</a> within a month of his candidacy being announced in February. The money came from about 1,000 donors, 70% of whom were San Franciscans.&nbsp;

Over $350K flows to Mark Farrell in San Francisco mayor’s race

Former Supervisor Mark Farrell, who has carved out a lane as a pro-business, tough-on-crime candidate, was able to haul in <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/13/san-francisco-mayor-election-mark-farrell-fundraising/">over $350,000</a> within a month of his candidacy being announced in February. The money came from about 1,000 donors, 70% of whom were San Franciscans.&nbsp;

While no week-to-week or month-to-month figures were immediately available for Breed’s campaign, the sitting mayor brought in about $200,000 in the second half of 2023, according to the latest campaign filings.&nbsp;

While no week-to-week or month-to-month figures were immediately available for Breed’s campaign, the sitting mayor brought in about $200,000 in the second half of 2023, according to the latest campaign filings.&nbsp;

Breed’s official campaign kickoff will be held on May 18, and campaign spokesperson Joe Arellano said he expects the mayor’s donations to ramp up then. The mayor is already set to receive hundreds of thousands of dollars in public matching, <a href="https://sfethics.org/ethics/2024/03/campaign-finance-public-funds-november-5-2024.html">according</a> to the Ethics Commission.

Breed’s official campaign kickoff will be held on May 18, and campaign spokesperson Joe Arellano said he expects the mayor’s donations to ramp up then. The mayor is already set to receive hundreds of thousands of dollars in public matching, <a href="https://sfethics.org/ethics/2024/03/campaign-finance-public-funds-november-5-2024.html">according</a> to the Ethics Commission.

Mayor London Breed smiles while at AA Bakery & Cafe on Stockton Street in San Francisco on Tuesday, April 23, 2024.Two days after returning from China, San Francisco Mayor London Breed immediately paid a visit to Chinatown to share the good news with the Chinese American community.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/featured_20240424-breedglobalpolitics.jpg?w=1459" alt="A smiling woman in blue foreground with people in a sunny, bustling street background." class="wp-image-270339"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayor London Breed&#8217;s campaign kickoff is scheduled for May 18 and is expected to come with a bump in donations.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/featured_20240424-breedglobalpolitics.jpg?w=1459" alt="A smiling woman in blue foreground with people in a sunny, bustling street background." class="wp-image-270339"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayor London Breed's campaign kickoff is scheduled for May 18 and is expected to come with a bump in donations.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/featured_20240424-breedglobalpolitics.jpg?w=1459" alt="A smiling woman in blue foreground with people in a sunny, bustling street background." class="wp-image-270339"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayor London Breed&#8217;s campaign kickoff is scheduled for May 18 and is expected to come with a bump in donations.</figcaption></figure>

Supervisor Ahsha Safaí raised about $184,000 between July and December 2023.

Supervisor Ahsha Safaí raised about $184,000 between July and December 2023.

“When you have Lurie and Farrell who are competing against each other for Mayor of the Marina, you would expect them to raise lots of money from people who have lots of money,” said longtime political consultant Jim Ross. “I think that [if] you consider Aaron and his base is much more progressive,&nbsp;… raising that much money in a month is a pretty strong showing. It shows he has a real base of support.”

“When you have Lurie and Farrell who are competing against each other for Mayor of the Marina, you would expect them to raise lots of money from people who have lots of money,” said longtime political consultant Jim Ross. “I think that [if] you consider Aaron and his base is much more progressive,&nbsp;… raising that much money in a month is a pretty strong showing. It shows he has a real base of support.”

Jason McDaniel, a political science professor from San Francisco State University, agreed.

Jason McDaniel, a political science professor from San Francisco State University, agreed.

“While resources are important, when you add <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=public+financing+sf&amp;oq=public+financing+sf&amp;gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTIGCAEQRRhAMgYIAhBFGD3SAQg2MDIyajBqNKgCALACAQ&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8">public matching</a> into this and other ways of getting the message out, … I would not have a serious concern about him having the resources necessary to get his message out to voters,” he said. “The only thing to my mind that makes this an issue of concern is if the three other major contenders coordinate against Peskin. As of now, I think that’s not an area of concern.”

“While resources are important, when you add <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=public+financing+sf&amp;oq=public+financing+sf&amp;gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTIGCAEQRRhAMgYIAhBFGD3SAQg2MDIyajBqNKgCALACAQ&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8">public matching</a> into this and other ways of getting the message out, … I would not have a serious concern about him having the resources necessary to get his message out to voters,” he said. “The only thing to my mind that makes this an issue of concern is if the three other major contenders coordinate against Peskin. As of now, I think that’s not an area of concern.”

We got our hands on Aaron Peskin’s campaign haul. (It’s small)

Adam Lashinsky

If you want to know how Aaron Peskin would run San Francisco if elected mayor this November, ask him about Bob&#8217;s Donuts.&nbsp;

If you want to know how Aaron Peskin would run San Francisco if elected mayor this November, ask him about Bob's Donuts.&nbsp;

If you want to know how Aaron Peskin would run San Francisco if elected mayor this November, ask him about Bob&#8217;s Donuts.&nbsp;

I did just that on a stunning Saturday morning in late June, when the two of us sat down at an outdoor table at Caffe Trieste in North Beach. Peskin was in his element here, greeting passersby and their dogs, making chit chat with the regulars. Because we only had a short time together, I got him down to business quickly.

I did just that on a stunning Saturday morning in late June, when the two of us sat down at an outdoor table at Caffe Trieste in North Beach. Peskin was in his element here, greeting passersby and their dogs, making chit chat with the regulars. Because we only had a short time together, I got him down to business quickly.

Why had Peskin, the Board of Supervisors president, mayoral candidate and leader of the city&#8217;s progressive wing, recently<a href="https://sfbos.org/sites/default/files/PRESS_RELEASE-Aaron_Peskin_Moves_Bob%27s_Donuts_Forward.pdf"> written and passed a bill</a> that benefited a single business in his district: Bob’s Donuts?&nbsp;

Why had Peskin, the Board of Supervisors president, mayoral candidate and leader of the city's progressive wing, recently<a href="https://sfbos.org/sites/default/files/PRESS_RELEASE-Aaron_Peskin_Moves_Bob%27s_Donuts_Forward.pdf"> written and passed a bill</a> that benefited a single business in his district: Bob’s Donuts?&nbsp;

Why had Peskin, the Board of Supervisors president, mayoral candidate and leader of the city&#8217;s progressive wing, recently<a href="https://sfbos.org/sites/default/files/PRESS_RELEASE-Aaron_Peskin_Moves_Bob%27s_Donuts_Forward.pdf"> written and passed a bill</a> that benefited a single business in his district: Bob’s Donuts?&nbsp;

Some background: The donut shop, owned by the Ahn family since 1977, wanted to expand this spring to a new location across Polk St. But they were prevented from relocating because of a law Peskin himself had written seven years ago. After hearing their pleas for assistance, Peskin decided to wave his legislative wand and introduced a new bill—with ultra-specific language that applied only to Bob’s Donuts—that would allow the shop to change addresses.&nbsp;

Some background: The donut shop, owned by the Ahn family since 1977, wanted to expand this spring to a new location across Polk St. But they were prevented from relocating because of a law Peskin himself had written seven years ago. After hearing their pleas for assistance, Peskin decided to wave his legislative wand and introduced a new bill—with ultra-specific language that applied only to Bob’s Donuts—that would allow the shop to change addresses.&nbsp;

Peskin is known for not mincing words, so I decided not to either: This is a rotten way to govern, I suggested. Making one-off changes to the planning code to benefit a single donut shop is a recipe for dysfunction, the kind of bureaucratic sludge that has made it a mess to get anything done in this city. Surprisingly, even disarmingly, Peskin initially seemed to agree.&nbsp;

Peskin is known for not mincing words, so I decided not to either: This is a rotten way to govern, I suggested. Making one-off changes to the planning code to benefit a single donut shop is a recipe for dysfunction, the kind of bureaucratic sludge that has made it a mess to get anything done in this city. Surprisingly, even disarmingly, Peskin initially seemed to agree.&nbsp;

People walk by Bob's Donuts at 1621 Polk Street in San Francisco North Beach neighborhood.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/img_5017.jpeg?w=828" alt="The image shows a storefront with a blue awning that reads &quot;Bob's Donuts Pastries&quot; along with a phone number, 776-3141. Two people are walking past the shop." class="wp-image-289315"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Bob&#8217;s Donuts on Polk Street</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/img_5017.jpeg?w=828" alt="The image shows a storefront with a blue awning that reads &quot;Bob's Donuts Pastries&quot; along with a phone number, 776-3141. Two people are walking past the shop." class="wp-image-289315"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Bob's Donuts on Polk Street</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/img_5017.jpeg?w=828" alt="The image shows a storefront with a blue awning that reads &quot;Bob's Donuts Pastries&quot; along with a phone number, 776-3141. Two people are walking past the shop." class="wp-image-289315"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Bob&#8217;s Donuts on Polk Street</figcaption></figure>

“It’s a rarity,” he allowed. “Legislation—whether it is land use or public health legislation or the public works code, you name it—on balance does what it is designed to do. But sometimes, it catches a couple of fish in its net that it wasn&#8217;t designed to catch. And then you’ve got to go in there by hand and get that porpoise out of the tuna net.”&nbsp;

“It’s a rarity,” he allowed. “Legislation—whether it is land use or public health legislation or the public works code, you name it—on balance does what it is designed to do. But sometimes, it catches a couple of fish in its net that it wasn't designed to catch. And then you’ve got to go in there by hand and get that porpoise out of the tuna net.”&nbsp;

“It’s a rarity,” he allowed. “Legislation—whether it is land use or public health legislation or the public works code, you name it—on balance does what it is designed to do. But sometimes, it catches a couple of fish in its net that it wasn&#8217;t designed to catch. And then you’ve got to go in there by hand and get that porpoise out of the tuna net.”&nbsp;

But there are some funny things about Peskin’s fishing methods. When he passed the 2017 law that necessitated the new ordinance for Bob’s Donuts, Peskin was taking aim at other entities that he wanted to keep out of his backyard—namely national chains and other “formula retail.” However, the legislation was written so broadly it would inevitably affect other local businesses. Peskin claims innocence here, but savvy operator that he is, he had to know that there would be innocent bycatch.&nbsp;

But there are some funny things about Peskin’s fishing methods. When he passed the 2017 law that necessitated the new ordinance for Bob’s Donuts, Peskin was taking aim at other entities that he wanted to keep out of his backyard—namely national chains and other “formula retail.” However, the legislation was written so broadly it would inevitably affect other local businesses. Peskin claims innocence here, but savvy operator that he is, he had to know that there would be innocent bycatch.&nbsp;

Why Aaron Peskin’s progressive cred may not be enough to win

We got our hands on Aaron Peskin’s campaign haul. (It’s small)

Opinion: What would it look like for Aaron Peskin to be mayor? Ask Bob’s Donuts

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Search Results for: aaron peskin

Why Aaron Peskin’s progressive cred may not be enough to win

We got our hands on Aaron Peskin’s campaign haul. (It’s small)

Opinion: What would it look like for Aaron Peskin to be mayor? Ask Bob’s Donuts

Fearing tall buildings, westside homeowners look to Aaron Peskin

‘Godfather of Silicon Valley’ spends big to crush progressive mayoral hopeful