Han Li

San Francisco&#8217;s vastly outnumbered Republicans don’t have a candidate representing them in the upcoming mayoral election, but they have managed to find consensus on their favorite Democrat in the field —&nbsp;and it’s not the obvious one.

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San Francisco's vastly outnumbered Republicans don’t have a candidate representing them in the upcoming mayoral election, but they have managed to find consensus on their favorite Democrat in the field —&nbsp;and it’s not the obvious one.

San Francisco&#8217;s vastly outnumbered Republicans don’t have a candidate representing them in the upcoming mayoral election, but they have managed to find consensus on their favorite Democrat in the field —&nbsp;and it’s not the obvious one.

The San Francisco Republican Party and the rising moderate Republican group <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/30/san-francisco-republican-party-briones-society-candidates-rccc/">Briones Society</a> have put Daniel Lurie, who has never held a government job, at the top of their mayoral recommendation lists.

This group of San Francisco Republicans wants to revive their party in 2024

The San Francisco Republican Party and the rising moderate Republican group <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/30/san-francisco-republican-party-briones-society-candidates-rccc/">Briones Society</a> have put Daniel Lurie, who has never held a government job, at the top of their mayoral recommendation lists.

The decision to back the nonprofit founder and Levi&#8217;s heir comes as a snub to Mark Farrell, a former supervisor and interim mayor who has been campaigning as the most conservative pick among the major candidates. Farrell has <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/06/24/san-francisco-mayoral-election-republican-voters/">received some support from Republican camps</a> but is not the first choice of the two most high-profile groups.

Lurie and Farrell capture mayor’s race in one key demo: Republicans 

The decision to back the nonprofit founder and Levi's heir comes as a snub to Mark Farrell, a former supervisor and interim mayor who has been campaigning as the most conservative pick among the major candidates. Farrell has <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/06/24/san-francisco-mayoral-election-republican-voters/">received some support from Republican camps</a> but is not the first choice of the two most high-profile groups.

The decision to back the nonprofit founder and Levi&#8217;s heir comes as a snub to Mark Farrell, a former supervisor and interim mayor who has been campaigning as the most conservative pick among the major candidates. Farrell has <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/06/24/san-francisco-mayoral-election-republican-voters/">received some support from Republican camps</a> but is not the first choice of the two most high-profile groups.

&#8220;Lurie <a href="https://www.brionessociety.org/voterguide-nov-2024">edged out Farrell</a> because our committee felt the time is ripe for a new crop of candidates and new perspectives in City Hall, including in the mayor&#8217;s office,&#8221; Briones Society founder Jay Donde told The Standard. His group <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/05/san-francisco-election-republican-county-central-committee/">won control of the Republican County Central Committee</a> in a landslide victory in March.

San Francisco Republicans elect new party leadership

"Lurie <a href="https://www.brionessociety.org/voterguide-nov-2024">edged out Farrell</a> because our committee felt the time is ripe for a new crop of candidates and new perspectives in City Hall, including in the mayor's office," Briones Society founder Jay Donde told The Standard. His group <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/05/san-francisco-election-republican-county-central-committee/">won control of the Republican County Central Committee</a> in a landslide victory in March.

&#8220;Lurie <a href="https://www.brionessociety.org/voterguide-nov-2024">edged out Farrell</a> because our committee felt the time is ripe for a new crop of candidates and new perspectives in City Hall, including in the mayor&#8217;s office,&#8221; Briones Society founder Jay Donde told The Standard. His group <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/05/san-francisco-election-republican-county-central-committee/">won control of the Republican County Central Committee</a> in a landslide victory in March.

SF GOP snubs Republican in mayoral endorsements, quietly favoring conservative Dems

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Donde said he wanted to emphasize the importance of voting for both candidates in the ranked-choice election.

Donde said he wanted to emphasize the importance of voting for both candidates in the ranked-choice election.

The highly competitive mayoral race could be decided by a small number of votes. Lurie, who’s <a href="https://link.sfstandard.com/view/6436ea099b26044931999510lzqgn.24q/0476870c">surging in polls,</a> has been <a href="https://x.com/DanielLurie/status/1836959002422632841">attacking other candidates</a> as City Hall insiders, claiming he is <a href="https://x.com/DanielLurie/status/1836971967598968849">the outsider who can fix </a>the core problems of corruption, drugs, and homelessness

The highly competitive mayoral race could be decided by a small number of votes. Lurie, who’s <a href="https://link.sfstandard.com/view/6436ea099b26044931999510lzqgn.24q/0476870c">surging in polls,</a> has been <a href="https://x.com/DanielLurie/status/1836959002422632841">attacking other candidates</a> as City Hall insiders, claiming he is <a href="https://x.com/DanielLurie/status/1836971967598968849">the outsider who can fix </a>the core problems of corruption, drugs, and homelessness

In a statement, Lurie said he is a lifelong Democrat and is not seeking Republican endorsement; however, his campaign has always been about bringing people into the fold.

In a statement, Lurie said he is a lifelong Democrat and is not seeking Republican endorsement; however, his campaign has always been about bringing people into the fold.

&#8220;I welcome the support of every San Franciscan who is committed to restoring safety, ending homelessness, and shutting down open-air drug markets,&#8221; Lurie said. &#8220;That&#8217;s not partisan. It&#8217;s common sense.&#8221;

"I welcome the support of every San Franciscan who is committed to restoring safety, ending homelessness, and shutting down open-air drug markets," Lurie said. "That's not partisan. It's common sense."

&#8220;I welcome the support of every San Franciscan who is committed to restoring safety, ending homelessness, and shutting down open-air drug markets,&#8221; Lurie said. &#8220;That&#8217;s not partisan. It&#8217;s common sense.&#8221;

The local Republican Party sent tens of thousands of mailers to registered members, comparing the major candidates based on five issues — the drug crisis, crime, housing, the economy, and education —&nbsp;and ranking Lurie on top. Farrell is listed below him.

The local Republican Party sent tens of thousands of mailers to registered members, comparing the major candidates based on five issues — the drug crisis, crime, housing, the economy, and education —&nbsp;and ranking Lurie on top. Farrell is listed below him.

The San Francisco Republican Party compares the major candidates based on five issues and puts Daniel Lurie on top.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/sfgop.jpg?w=1920" alt="The image is a table comparing mayoral candidates on five issues. Green checks and red X's mark candidates' positions on drug crisis, crime, housing, economy, and education." class="wp-image-318396"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The San Francisco Republican Party puts Lurie atop its list of candidates.</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/sfgop.jpg?w=1920" alt="The image is a table comparing mayoral candidates on five issues. Green checks and red X's mark candidates' positions on drug crisis, crime, housing, economy, and education." class="wp-image-318396"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The San Francisco Republican Party puts Lurie atop its list of candidates.</figcaption></figure>

According to the GOP’s ranking, Mayor London Breed has done well in housing and education, while Supervisors Aaron Peskin and Ahsha Safaí failed in all five categories.

According to the GOP’s ranking, Mayor London Breed has done well in housing and education, while Supervisors Aaron Peskin and Ahsha Safaí failed in all five categories.

Party Chair John Dennis&nbsp;said the chart is not technically an endorsement or show of support, but the group &#8220;wanted to offer the average Republican voters some guidance about what we were thinking about the race.&#8221;

Party Chair John Dennis&nbsp;said the chart is not technically an endorsement or show of support, but the group "wanted to offer the average Republican voters some guidance about what we were thinking about the race."

Party Chair John Dennis&nbsp;said the chart is not technically an endorsement or show of support, but the group &#8220;wanted to offer the average Republican voters some guidance about what we were thinking about the race.&#8221;

Meanwhile, San Francisco Young Republicans <a href="https://sfyr.io/endorsements-for-mayor-of-san-francisco/">support Farrell as their first choice</a>; Ellen Lee Zhou, the only Republican in the race, as their second; and Peskin as their third <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/06/28/san-francisco-mayors-race-westside-housing-aaron-peskin/">because of his stance against big developers.</a>

Fearing tall buildings, westside homeowners look to Aaron Peskin

Meanwhile, San Francisco Young Republicans <a href="https://sfyr.io/endorsements-for-mayor-of-san-francisco/">support Farrell as their first choice</a>; Ellen Lee Zhou, the only Republican in the race, as their second; and Peskin as their third <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/06/28/san-francisco-mayors-race-westside-housing-aaron-peskin/">because of his stance against big developers.</a>

Marie Hurabiell, executive director and founder of a new independent group called ConnectedSF, is <a href="https://www.connectedsf.com/citywide-candidate-endorsements#Mayor">endorsing Lurie as her top choice</a>. Hurabiell, whose organization is focused on &#8220;anti-status-quo,&#8221; said Lurie stands out for his outsider image, emphasis on public safety, and fresh takes on government and nonprofit accountability.

Marie Hurabiell, executive director and founder of a new independent group called ConnectedSF, is <a href="https://www.connectedsf.com/citywide-candidate-endorsements#Mayor">endorsing Lurie as her top choice</a>. Hurabiell, whose organization is focused on "anti-status-quo," said Lurie stands out for his outsider image, emphasis on public safety, and fresh takes on government and nonprofit accountability.

Marie Hurabiell, executive director and founder of a new independent group called ConnectedSF, is <a href="https://www.connectedsf.com/citywide-candidate-endorsements#Mayor">endorsing Lurie as her top choice</a>. Hurabiell, whose organization is focused on &#8220;anti-status-quo,&#8221; said Lurie stands out for his outsider image, emphasis on public safety, and fresh takes on government and nonprofit accountability.

Hurabiell, a longtime Republican turned Democrat, acknowledged that Farrell&#8217;s right-leaning policy ideas are attractive and said she&#8217;s supporting him as a second choice. However, she believes Lurie&#8217;s wealthy background is a benefit because &#8220;he can&#8217;t be bought,&#8221; and that&#8217;s a key advantage when it comes to rooting out the city&#8217;s corruption problem.

Hurabiell, a longtime Republican turned Democrat, acknowledged that Farrell's right-leaning policy ideas are attractive and said she's supporting him as a second choice. However, she believes Lurie's wealthy background is a benefit because "he can't be bought," and that's a key advantage when it comes to rooting out the city's corruption problem.

Hurabiell, a longtime Republican turned Democrat, acknowledged that Farrell&#8217;s right-leaning policy ideas are attractive and said she&#8217;s supporting him as a second choice. However, she believes Lurie&#8217;s wealthy background is a benefit because &#8220;he can&#8217;t be bought,&#8221; and that&#8217;s a key advantage when it comes to rooting out the city&#8217;s corruption problem.

&#8220;We need a change,&#8221; Hurabiell said. &#8220;We need someone who&#8217;s not beholden to anybody.&#8221;

"We need a change," Hurabiell said. "We need someone who's not beholden to anybody."

&#8220;We need a change,&#8221; Hurabiell said. &#8220;We need someone who&#8217;s not beholden to anybody.&#8221;

SF Republicans throw support behind surprising Democrat for mayor

Josh Koehn

Five major <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/02/san-francisco-mayor-finances-breed-peskin-safai-farrell-lurie/">candidates for mayor</a> of San Francisco stepped onto the stage Wednesday at a packed Sydney Goldstein Theater for the first debate ahead of November’s election. The candidates cited no shortage of statistics on crime, housing and drug overdose deaths, but there were also moments of levity, a brief interlude to escort out protesters and some genuine zingers.

Millions in stock, Israel trip, jazz tickets: Inside mayoral candidates’ financials

Five major <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/02/san-francisco-mayor-finances-breed-peskin-safai-farrell-lurie/">candidates for mayor</a> of San Francisco stepped onto the stage Wednesday at a packed Sydney Goldstein Theater for the first debate ahead of November’s election. The candidates cited no shortage of statistics on crime, housing and drug overdose deaths, but there were also moments of levity, a brief interlude to escort out protesters and some genuine zingers.

Here are five fun things we took away from the first debate in what is sure to be a feisty race to November.

Here are five fun things we took away from the first debate in what is sure to be a feisty race to November.

Hundreds of San Franciscan voters watch mayoral candidates participate in the debate hosted by Manny Yekutiel and Heather Knight at Sydney Goldstein Theater in Hayes Valley in San Francisco, Calif. on Wednesday, June 12, 2024.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20240613mayordebate29-cropped_cd810d.jpg?w=2500" alt="An overhead view of an audience seated in red theater chairs, clapping enthusiastically. The image captures a mix of people, some mid-clap, creating a blur of motion." class="wp-image-283254"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Hundreds of San Franciscans attended Wednesday’s mayoral debate at the Sydney Goldstein Theater.</figcaption></figure>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-double-edged-sword-of-experience">The double-edged sword of experience</h2>

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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-double-edged-sword-of-experience">The double-edged sword of experience</h2>

Daniel Lurie, an anti-poverty nonprofit founder and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/04/san-francisco-mayor-election-daniel-lurie-wealth/">heir to the Levi Strauss fortune</a>, has never served in elected office, which made him an easy target for the other candidates. After blaming Mayor London Breed and Mark Farrell—who was briefly appointed mayor in 2018—for crafting budgets that Lurie said contributed to the police staffing shortage, Farrell shot back: “Daniel, this is where your inexperience shows.”

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

Daniel Lurie, an anti-poverty nonprofit founder and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/04/san-francisco-mayor-election-daniel-lurie-wealth/">heir to the Levi Strauss fortune</a>, has never served in elected office, which made him an easy target for the other candidates. After blaming Mayor London Breed and Mark Farrell—who was briefly appointed mayor in 2018—for crafting budgets that Lurie said contributed to the police staffing shortage, Farrell shot back: “Daniel, this is where your inexperience shows.”

Safaí was next in line to take a whack at Lurie, noting that San Francisco doesn’t have time for a mayor to be learning on the job.

Safaí was next in line to take a whack at Lurie, noting that San Francisco doesn’t have time for a mayor to be learning on the job.

Former Mayor Mark Farrell and Daniel Lurie participate in the debate hosted by Manny Yekutiel and Heather Knight at Sydney Goldstein Theater in Hayes Valley in San Francisco, Calif. on Wednesday, June 12, 2024.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20240613mayordebate14.jpg?w=2500" alt="Two men in suits stand behind podiums on a dark stage, wearing microphones on their faces. One man wears glasses and a pink tie; the other man wears a light blue shirt." class="wp-image-283137"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mark Farrell, left, and other candidates picked on nonprofit founder and Levi Strauss heir Daniel Lurie for his inexperience during Wednesday’s debate.</figcaption></figure>

But Lurie knew the jabs were coming and had one of the better lines of the night, noting that the four other candidates have a combined 70 years of experience as elected officials.

But Lurie knew the jabs were coming and had one of the better lines of the night, noting that the four other candidates have a combined 70 years of experience as elected officials.

“Look at where it’s gotten us,” Lurie said.

“Look at where it’s gotten us,” Lurie said.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-corruption-is-in-the-eye-of-the-beholder">Corruption is in the eye of the beholder</h2>

It’s quite possible Breed’s first term as mayor would have been completely derailed by the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/02/01/san-francisco-city-hall-corruption-scandal-nuru/">Mohammed Nuru corruption scandal</a> that rocked City Hall in February 2020. But just a month after the pervasive bribery scheme came to light, the pandemic shut down San Francisco and the rest of the world, and people were more worried about their next paycheck—and last roll of toilet paper.

Bribes, bling and trash: Breaking down the key players in San Francisco&#8217;s corruption scandal

It’s quite possible Breed’s first term as mayor would have been completely derailed by the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/02/01/san-francisco-city-hall-corruption-scandal-nuru/">Mohammed Nuru corruption scandal</a> that rocked City Hall in February 2020. But just a month after the pervasive bribery scheme came to light, the pandemic shut down San Francisco and the rest of the world, and people were more worried about their next paycheck—and last roll of toilet paper.

Manny Yekutiel, a co-moderator with New York Times reporter Heather Knight, asked Breed about the corruption scandals that have been uncovered in her departments, and the mayor didn’t miss a beat in reframing the question.

Manny Yekutiel, a co-moderator with New York Times reporter Heather Knight, asked Breed about the corruption scandals that have been uncovered in her departments, and the mayor didn’t miss a beat in reframing the question.

Mayor London Breed participates in the debate hosted by Manny Yekutiel and Heather Knight at Sydney Goldstein Theater in Hayes Valley in San Francisco, Calif. on Wednesday, June 12, 2024.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20240613mayordebate23.jpg?w=2500" alt="Three individuals stand at podiums on a dimly lit stage. The woman in the middle speaks with a hand raised, while the two men on either side listen intently." class="wp-image-283247"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayor London Breed defended her record and deflected blame for corruption scandals that took place on her watch.</figcaption></figure>

Breed, who paid an ethics fine for accepting gifts from Nuru, said that voters should see her as overseeing the “biggest corruption cleanup” in city history while noting that she did not hire any of the people who have run afoul of the law.

Breed, who paid an ethics fine for accepting gifts from Nuru, said that voters should see her as overseeing the “biggest corruption cleanup” in city history while noting that she did not hire any of the people who have run afoul of the law.

Public safety, housing, and the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/31/downtown-san-francisco-hybrid-work-doom-loop/">local economy</a> are among the top issues for many voters, so it’s possible the corruption scandals will once again take a backseat this election cycle.

Downtown San Francisco’s future? More innovation and fun, fewer offices

Public safety, housing, and the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/31/downtown-san-francisco-hybrid-work-doom-loop/">local economy</a> are among the top issues for many voters, so it’s possible the corruption scandals will once again take a backseat this election cycle.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-do-you-love-most-in-san-francisco">What do you love most in San Francisco?</h2>

Near the end of the debate, candidates entered the “lightning round” and were forced to quickly answer questions like what is their favorite burrito joint or bar. But the first question focused on each candidate’s favorite San Francisco tradition.

Near the end of the debate, candidates entered the “lightning round” and were forced to quickly answer questions like what is their favorite burrito joint or bar. But the first question focused on each candidate’s favorite San Francisco tradition.

Safaí said he loves riding the cable cars, Breed gave a nod to the Juneteenth Festival in the Fillmore and Lurie went with Opening Day for the San Francisco Giants. Farrell caught nearly everyone in the audience off guard by saying his favorite tradition in the city is visiting Alcatraz, because who doesn’t love getting the kids together to go visit a defunct prison?

Safaí said he loves riding the cable cars, Breed gave a nod to the Juneteenth Festival in the Fillmore and Lurie went with Opening Day for the San Francisco Giants. Farrell caught nearly everyone in the audience off guard by saying his favorite tradition in the city is visiting Alcatraz, because who doesn’t love getting the kids together to go visit a defunct prison?

Seeing an opening, Peskin pounced with the last answer, saying his favorite pastime is swimming from Alcatraz. It was a pretty gangster response until one remembers this photo.

Seeing an opening, Peskin pounced with the last answer, saying his favorite pastime is swimming from Alcatraz. It was a pretty gangster response until one remembers this photo.

San Francisco Supervisor Aaron Peskin gets his workouts by swimming to Alcatraz and then back to the city.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Aquaman-Aaron-Peskin.jpeg?w=2048" alt="Aaron Peskin with a beard and goggles, wearing a yellow swim cap, swims in water with vegetation on a hill, a sign, and a lighthouse in the background." class="wp-image-86062"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">San Francisco Supervisor Aaron Peskin gets his workouts by swimming to Alcatraz and then back to the city.</figcaption></figure>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-if-i-ruled-the-world">If I ruled the world</h2>

One of the last questions of the debate focused on the candidates’ pipe dreams. Easy, Panama red! We’re talking more of the make-a-wish variety, as each candidate was asked for one thing they wish they could change overnight about San Francisco.

One of the last questions of the debate focused on the candidates’ pipe dreams. Easy, Panama red! We’re talking more of the make-a-wish variety, as each candidate was asked for one thing they wish they could change overnight about San Francisco.

Peskin said he would fix the civil service system to help fill vacant city positions, which is important but felt like a bone for labor unions. Lurie said he would fix the schools, which is also important but a little off-topic since that’s not really the mayor’s job. And Farrell said he would bring the San Francisco 49ers back to town, which is not important but would save thousands of people <a href="https://sfist.com/2023/01/23/sundays-49ers-traffic-in-santa-clara-worse-than-any-time-in-levis-history/">the time and energy</a> of visiting the desolate wasteland that is Santa Clara.

Peskin said he would fix the civil service system to help fill vacant city positions, which is important but felt like a bone for labor unions. Lurie said he would fix the schools, which is also important but a little off-topic since that’s not really the mayor’s job. And Farrell said he would bring the San Francisco 49ers back to town, which is not important but would save thousands of people <a href="https://sfist.com/2023/01/23/sundays-49ers-traffic-in-santa-clara-worse-than-any-time-in-levis-history/">the time and energy</a> of visiting the desolate wasteland that is Santa Clara.

Mayor London Breed and Daniel Lurie participate in the debate hosted by Manny Yekutiel and Heather Knight at Sydney Goldstein Theater in Hayes Valley in San Francisco, Calif. on Wednesday, June 12, 2024.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20240613mayordebate12-edited.jpeg" alt="A woman is speaking at a podium, wearing a blue top, with a headset microphone on. The background is completely black, focusing attention on her." class="wp-image-283197"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayor London Breed said the top thing on her wishlist would be 100,000 new units of housing in San Francisco.</figcaption></figure>

Safaí and Breed seemed to better understand the question, with the former noting that he would like to be able to wave a wand and fix the drug overdose crisis. Meanwhile, Breed said she would snap her fingers and have 100,000 more units of housing. One can only assume how lit the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/16/yimby-winning-san-francisco-housing-war/">YIMBY</a> slack channel got.

Are YIMBYs on the verge of winning San Francisco’s housing war?

Safaí and Breed seemed to better understand the question, with the former noting that he would like to be able to wave a wand and fix the drug overdose crisis. Meanwhile, Breed said she would snap her fingers and have 100,000 more units of housing. One can only assume how lit the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/16/yimby-winning-san-francisco-housing-war/">YIMBY</a> slack channel got.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-who-won-the-debate">Who won the debate?</h2>

The only correct answer seems to be … nobody. But no one lost either.

The only correct answer seems to be … nobody. But no one lost either.

Breed, the lone woman candidate on stage, noted in her opening statement, “These guys have one thing in common: They want us to feel bad about San Francisco.” But when it comes to making people feel good about San Francisco, Breed has a tough task and her strongest trait has always been roasting her opponents.

Breed, the lone woman candidate on stage, noted in her opening statement, “These guys have one thing in common: They want us to feel bad about San Francisco.” But when it comes to making people feel good about San Francisco, Breed has a tough task and her strongest trait has always been roasting her opponents.

One issue the mayor faces in these debates is that the bar is higher for an incumbent. Breed needs to be head and shoulders above her challengers after six years in the Mayor’s Office.

One issue the mayor faces in these debates is that the bar is higher for an incumbent. Breed needs to be head and shoulders above her challengers after six years in the Mayor’s Office.

Five mayoral candidates participate in the debate hosted by Manny Yekutiel and Heather Knight at Sydney Goldstein Theater in Hayes Valley in San Francisco, Calif. on Wednesday, June 12, 2024.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20240613mayordebate7.jpg?w=1667" alt="An audience in a theater watches six people at podiums on a stage. The setting is dimly lit, with the focus on the stage and the audience seated in semi-darkness." class="wp-image-283142"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">There were no real winners—or losers—in Wednesday night&#8217;s debate.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20240613mayordebate7.jpg?w=1667" alt="An audience in a theater watches six people at podiums on a stage. The setting is dimly lit, with the focus on the stage and the audience seated in semi-darkness." class="wp-image-283142"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">There were no real winners—or losers—in Wednesday night's debate.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20240613mayordebate7.jpg?w=1667" alt="An audience in a theater watches six people at podiums on a stage. The setting is dimly lit, with the focus on the stage and the audience seated in semi-darkness." class="wp-image-283142"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">There were no real winners—or losers—in Wednesday night&#8217;s debate.</figcaption></figure>

Peskin and Safaí both touted their legislative chops and had fine showings—although early in the evening, Safaí had to interrupt moderator Knight when she was about to skip his turn on a question about the drug crisis. It felt a bit on brand considering Safaí has often been <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/05/17/ahsha-safai-mayors-race-san-francisco/">an afterthought in the race</a>.

Last in the mayor&#8217;s race, Ahsha Safaí says don&#8217;t count him out

Peskin and Safaí both touted their legislative chops and had fine showings—although early in the evening, Safaí had to interrupt moderator Knight when she was about to skip his turn on a question about the drug crisis. It felt a bit on brand considering Safaí has often been <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/05/17/ahsha-safai-mayors-race-san-francisco/">an afterthought in the race</a>.

Peskin combatted his reputation as a NIMBY to questionable effect, but he made a savvy move at the end of the debate by using the final closing statement to roast his opponents when they no longer had a chance to respond.

Peskin combatted his reputation as a NIMBY to questionable effect, but he made a savvy move at the end of the debate by using the final closing statement to roast his opponents when they no longer had a chance to respond.

Farrell, a former supervisor and mayor, scored points on public safety but also drew scoffs when he said <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/13/market-street-san-francisco-doom-loop-mark-farrell/">putting cars back on Market Street</a> could create a bustling hub that recalls the Champs-Élysées in Paris.

Mayoral candidate calls for bringing cars back to Market Street

Farrell, a former supervisor and mayor, scored points on public safety but also drew scoffs when he said <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/13/market-street-san-francisco-doom-loop-mark-farrell/">putting cars back on Market Street</a> could create a bustling hub that recalls the Champs-Élysées in Paris.

Lurie’s campaign sent out an email blast after the debate saying he “dominated” the event. But earlier in the evening, he also said he had recently used the controversial <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/16/noe-valley-expensive-toilet-san-francisco/">$1.7 million public toilet in Noe Valley</a>. His review: “It wasn’t bad.”

&#8216;The hand sanitizer isn&#8217;t working!&#8217;: Testing out that very expensive toilet

Lurie’s campaign sent out an email blast after the debate saying he “dominated” the event. But earlier in the evening, he also said he had recently used the controversial <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/16/noe-valley-expensive-toilet-san-francisco/">$1.7 million public toilet in Noe Valley</a>. His review: “It wasn’t bad.”

More likely, each of the candidates’ performance was somewhere in the middle of that spectrum.

More likely, each of the candidates’ performance was somewhere in the middle of that spectrum.

5 fun takeaways from the first San Francisco mayoral debate

Mark Farrell

Following the deadly crash in West Portal last weekend, the Standard asked the leading candidates for mayor what they would do to make city streets safer and reach the goal of zero traffic fatalities. <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/21/breed-deadly-crash-safety/">Mayor London Breed</a>, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/21/safai-deadly-crash-safety/">Supervisor Ahsha Safaí</a>, former mayor and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/21/farrell-deadly-crash-safety/">supervisor Mark Farrell</a> and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/22/daniel-lurie-smarter-streets/"><a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/22/daniel-lurie-smarter-streets/">non-profit executive</a> Daniel Lurie</a> submitted responses.

Following the deadly crash in West Portal last weekend, the Standard asked the leading candidates for mayor what they would do to make city streets safer and reach the goal of zero traffic fatalities. <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/21/breed-deadly-crash-safety/">Mayor London Breed</a>, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/21/safai-deadly-crash-safety/">Supervisor Ahsha Safaí</a>, former mayor and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/21/farrell-deadly-crash-safety/">supervisor Mark Farrell</a> and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/22/daniel-lurie-smarter-streets/"><a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/22/daniel-lurie-smarter-streets/">non-profit executive</a> Daniel Lurie</a> submitted responses.

In 2014, San Francisco adopted <a href="https://www.visionzerosf.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vision Zero</a>, an ambitious goal to eliminate all traffic-related deaths by 2024. Although we have <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/20/traffic-deaths-in-san-francisco-continue-despite-vision-zero/#">clearly fallen short</a> 10 years later, the goal and work to make Vision Zero a reality must remain.

San Francisco set out to eliminate traffic deaths by 2024. Why has it failed?

In 2014, San Francisco adopted <a href="https://www.visionzerosf.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Vision Zero</a>, an ambitious goal to eliminate all traffic-related deaths by 2024. Although we have <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/20/traffic-deaths-in-san-francisco-continue-despite-vision-zero/#">clearly fallen short</a> 10 years later, the goal and work to make Vision Zero a reality must remain.

Last weekend, we had a devastating reminder of the work we still have left to do. Our city was shaken by a <a href="https://underscoresf.com/san-francisco-records-its-fourth-pedestrian-death-for-2024/#google_vignette" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">horrific crash</a> in West Portal caused by a driver allegedly speeding and going the wrong way, killing three members of a family and critically injuring their 2-month-old infant. The tragedy has caused enormous suffering and left a lasting mark on the community, a painful reminder that pedestrian <a href="https://underscoresf.com/san-francisco-records-its-fourth-pedestrian-death-for-2024/#google_vignette">fatalities</a> due to car collisions remain stubbornly high in San Francisco.

Last weekend, we had a devastating reminder of the work we still have left to do. Our city was shaken by a <a href="https://underscoresf.com/san-francisco-records-its-fourth-pedestrian-death-for-2024/#google_vignette" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">horrific crash</a> in West Portal caused by a driver allegedly speeding and going the wrong way, killing three members of a family and critically injuring their 2-month-old infant. The tragedy has caused enormous suffering and left a lasting mark on the community, a painful reminder that pedestrian <a href="https://underscoresf.com/san-francisco-records-its-fourth-pedestrian-death-for-2024/#google_vignette">fatalities</a> due to car collisions remain stubbornly high in San Francisco.

On average, <a href="https://walksf.org/news/for-reporters/press-releases/west-portal-pedestrians-killed-march-16-2024/#:~:text=Citywide%2C%20around%2030%20people%20are,50%25%20of%20these%20fatalities%20annually.&amp;text=Walk%20San%20Francisco%20('Walk%20SF,who%20walks%2C%20which%20is%20everyone." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">30 people</a> are killed every year on San Francisco’s streets and over 500 are severely injured. This year, the city has seen more <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/article/west-portal-crash-arrest-three-dead-19201921.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">traffic-related deaths</a> than average and is on track to surpass total traffic deaths in 2023. This is unacceptable. Our families deserve better.&nbsp;

On average, <a href="https://walksf.org/news/for-reporters/press-releases/west-portal-pedestrians-killed-march-16-2024/#:~:text=Citywide%2C%20around%2030%20people%20are,50%25%20of%20these%20fatalities%20annually.&amp;text=Walk%20San%20Francisco%20('Walk%20SF,who%20walks%2C%20which%20is%20everyone." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">30 people</a> are killed every year on San Francisco’s streets and over 500 are severely injured. This year, the city has seen more <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/article/west-portal-crash-arrest-three-dead-19201921.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">traffic-related deaths</a> than average and is on track to surpass total traffic deaths in 2023. This is unacceptable. Our families deserve better.&nbsp;

Unfortunately, much of this boils down to failed leadership. Mayor London Breed has bungled or abandoned one half-baked initiative after another and stalled critical projects that would improve road safety. This is all while allowing her San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency to force ideological-driven streetscape initiatives on communities that don’t take unique neighborhood needs into account.&nbsp;

Unfortunately, much of this boils down to failed leadership. Mayor London Breed has bungled or abandoned one half-baked initiative after another and stalled critical projects that would improve road safety. This is all while allowing her San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency to force ideological-driven streetscape initiatives on communities that don’t take unique neighborhood needs into account.&nbsp;

Our city’s <a href="https://www.sfmta.com/projects/better-market-street" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Better Market Street project</a>, which I consistently voted to support while in office, was intended to breathe new life into downtown, promising a safe Market Street for pedestrians, bicyclists and vehicles. Millions of dollars and countless hours went into the project. But Breed gutted the effort with no explanation. Not only did it never come to fruition, but her <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/05/san-francisco-market-street-pandemic-big-plans-collapsed/">decision to ban cars</a> on Market Street has simultaneously failed to stop collisions there and caused nightmarish traffic on arterial streets.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Did car-free Market Street kill San Francisco’s most important boulevard?

Our city’s <a href="https://www.sfmta.com/projects/better-market-street" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Better Market Street project</a>, which I consistently voted to support while in office, was intended to breathe new life into downtown, promising a safe Market Street for pedestrians, bicyclists and vehicles. Millions of dollars and countless hours went into the project. But Breed gutted the effort with no explanation. Not only did it never come to fruition, but her <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/05/san-francisco-market-street-pandemic-big-plans-collapsed/">decision to ban cars</a> on Market Street has simultaneously failed to stop collisions there and caused nightmarish traffic on arterial streets.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This unfulfilled promise was soon followed by the contentious <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/08/san-francisco-small-business-protests-valencia-street-bike-lane/">Valencia Street bike lane project</a>. After dedicating significant resources and undergoing two redesigns, Breed managed to upset neighbors, bicyclists and small businesses on the corridor, earning a rare trifecta of opposition. This is just the latest example of her inability to get any semblance of community support for streetscape projects and road use changes, which has prevented the city from making faster and real progress. Incidents along the corridor have only <a href="https://sf.streetsblog.org/2024/02/21/cutting-through-the-newest-misinformation-on-valencias-center-running-bike-lane" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gotten worse</a> since then.

A bike lane moved, and this San Francisco neighborhood erupted

This unfulfilled promise was soon followed by the contentious <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/08/san-francisco-small-business-protests-valencia-street-bike-lane/">Valencia Street bike lane project</a>. After dedicating significant resources and undergoing two redesigns, Breed managed to upset neighbors, bicyclists and small businesses on the corridor, earning a rare trifecta of opposition. This is just the latest example of her inability to get any semblance of community support for streetscape projects and road use changes, which has prevented the city from making faster and real progress. Incidents along the corridor have only <a href="https://sf.streetsblog.org/2024/02/21/cutting-through-the-newest-misinformation-on-valencias-center-running-bike-lane" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gotten worse</a> since then.

San Francisco cannot afford to keep putting lives in danger due to poor leadership. As mayor and District 2 supervisor, public safety was always my North Star, and it will continue to be my top priority. I helped advance thoughtful projects in my district, making improvements to Bay, Euclid and Lombard streets that balanced safety, convenience and neighborhood concerns. I helped install traffic calming measures, circles and stop signs across the city to slow down traffic on notorious unsafe streets. I even supported installing a new bike lane in front of my own home.&nbsp;

San Francisco cannot afford to keep putting lives in danger due to poor leadership. As mayor and District 2 supervisor, public safety was always my North Star, and it will continue to be my top priority. I helped advance thoughtful projects in my district, making improvements to Bay, Euclid and Lombard streets that balanced safety, convenience and neighborhood concerns. I helped install traffic calming measures, circles and stop signs across the city to slow down traffic on notorious unsafe streets. I even supported installing a new bike lane in front of my own home.&nbsp;

I’ve heard directly from residents who had raised safety concerns about the very intersection where the recent West Portal tragedy occurred, asking for streetlights and clearer pedestrian markers. Their concerns were ignored, and now, it&#8217;s too late. Breed has let SFMTA be distracted by pet projects and virtue signaling rather than the difficult and necessary work to make our streets safer.&nbsp;

I’ve heard directly from residents who had raised safety concerns about the very intersection where the recent West Portal tragedy occurred, asking for streetlights and clearer pedestrian markers. Their concerns were ignored, and now, it's too late. Breed has let SFMTA be distracted by pet projects and virtue signaling rather than the difficult and necessary work to make our streets safer.&nbsp;

I’ve heard directly from residents who had raised safety concerns about the very intersection where the recent West Portal tragedy occurred, asking for streetlights and clearer pedestrian markers. Their concerns were ignored, and now, it&#8217;s too late. Breed has let SFMTA be distracted by pet projects and virtue signaling rather than the difficult and necessary work to make our streets safer.&nbsp;

We’ve seen this incredibly sad story play out before, as when a 4-year-old child in a stroller was killed by a motorist last year at <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/08/15/juvenile-killed-couple-injured-in-car-wreck-by-san-franciscos-oracle-park/">Fourth and King Streets</a>. We shouldn&#8217;t wait to make road improvements until there is another tragic loss of life, but that is exactly what we expect to happen now in West Portal. We need a proactive, comprehensive citywide plan that constantly prioritizes safety and the well-being of all San Franciscans. I promise to work with communities, not at them.

Woman arrested after 4-year-old girl killed in crash near San Francisco&#8217;s Oracle Park

We’ve seen this incredibly sad story play out before, as when a 4-year-old child in a stroller was killed by a motorist last year at <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/08/15/juvenile-killed-couple-injured-in-car-wreck-by-san-franciscos-oracle-park/">Fourth and King Streets</a>. We shouldn't wait to make road improvements until there is another tragic loss of life, but that is exactly what we expect to happen now in West Portal. We need a proactive, comprehensive citywide plan that constantly prioritizes safety and the well-being of all San Franciscans. I promise to work with communities, not at them.

We’ve seen this incredibly sad story play out before, as when a 4-year-old child in a stroller was killed by a motorist last year at <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/08/15/juvenile-killed-couple-injured-in-car-wreck-by-san-franciscos-oracle-park/">Fourth and King Streets</a>. We shouldn&#8217;t wait to make road improvements until there is another tragic loss of life, but that is exactly what we expect to happen now in West Portal. We need a proactive, comprehensive citywide plan that constantly prioritizes safety and the well-being of all San Franciscans. I promise to work with communities, not at them.

As mayor, I will take bold, aggressive action to ensure all road users, especially bicyclists and pedestrians, are safe on our streets. I am committed to installing bollards on sidewalks at major intersections that have multiple modes and are near places like hospitals, parks and schools that are exposed to more vulnerable road users. These have the benefit of also being easy to remove and replace as traffic and neighborhood needs inevitably shift over time.&nbsp;

As mayor, I will take bold, aggressive action to ensure all road users, especially bicyclists and pedestrians, are safe on our streets. I am committed to installing bollards on sidewalks at major intersections that have multiple modes and are near places like hospitals, parks and schools that are exposed to more vulnerable road users. These have the benefit of also being easy to remove and replace as traffic and neighborhood needs inevitably shift over time.&nbsp;

As mayor, I will support the installation of more speed cameras. Speed is what kills, and we need more tools to deter speeding and enforce speed limits. I also support installing protected bike lanes on streets that are wide enough to support them and heavily used by cyclists. Some of the most famous promenades in the world in <a href="https://sf.streetsblog.org/2023/05/08/commentary-the-paris-bike-boom-is-incroyable" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paris</a>, <a href="https://usa.streetsblog.org/2022/10/18/cycling-through-covid-19-barcelona-and-seville-spain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Barcelona</a> and <a href="https://sf.streetsblog.org/2023/05/31/commentary-the-shock-of-returning-to-the-bay-area" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rotterdam</a> have managed to balance and promote safety, public transit, bicycling, private vehicles and convenience for all road users, and so can we.&nbsp;

As mayor, I will support the installation of more speed cameras. Speed is what kills, and we need more tools to deter speeding and enforce speed limits. I also support installing protected bike lanes on streets that are wide enough to support them and heavily used by cyclists. Some of the most famous promenades in the world in <a href="https://sf.streetsblog.org/2023/05/08/commentary-the-paris-bike-boom-is-incroyable" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Paris</a>, <a href="https://usa.streetsblog.org/2022/10/18/cycling-through-covid-19-barcelona-and-seville-spain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Barcelona</a> and <a href="https://sf.streetsblog.org/2023/05/31/commentary-the-shock-of-returning-to-the-bay-area" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rotterdam</a> have managed to balance and promote safety, public transit, bicycling, private vehicles and convenience for all road users, and so can we.&nbsp;

We need to continue to strive for Vision Zero because one life lost is too many. But we need a change in leadership to drive the real change and progress San Francisco deserves.&nbsp;

We need to continue to strive for Vision Zero because one life lost is too many. But we need a change in leadership to drive the real change and progress San Francisco deserves.&nbsp;

Mark Farrell is the 44th mayor of San Francisco and a former District 2 supervisor and is running to be the 46th mayor of San Francisco.

Mark Farrell is the 44th mayor of San Francisco and a former District 2 supervisor and is running to be the 46th mayor of San Francisco.

West Portal tragedy exposes Breed’s failed Vision Zero leadership

Opinion: West Portal tragedy exposes Breed’s failed Vision Zero leadership

Joe Fitzgerald Rodriguez

Politicians are known for it. Voters expect it. But like plaque building up against a molar, enough of it can give a campaign a stinging cavity.

Politicians are known for it. Voters expect it. But like plaque building up against a molar, enough of it can give a campaign a stinging cavity.

There are already signs that the sheer volume of accusations splaying across phone advertisements and blaring on TVs <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/10/21/sf-mayor-poll-breed-lurie-peskin-farrell/">may have taken a toll</a> on two candidates running for San Francisco mayor: former Supervisor and interim Mayor Mark Farrell and Mayor London Breed.

Is London Breed toast? New polls show worrying signs for mayor&#8217;s reelection bid

There are already signs that the sheer volume of accusations splaying across phone advertisements and blaring on TVs <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/10/21/sf-mayor-poll-breed-lurie-peskin-farrell/">may have taken a toll</a> on two candidates running for San Francisco mayor: former Supervisor and interim Mayor Mark Farrell and Mayor London Breed.

As voters mail in their ballots, confusion is understandable. The sheer number of allegations is a dizzying mess.

As voters mail in their ballots, confusion is understandable. The sheer number of allegations is a dizzying mess.

For those of you having trouble keeping track of these malicious accusations, The Standard has compiled most of the major alleged (and sustained) misdeeds against the top candidates into what we’re calling our mayoral dossier.

For those of you having trouble keeping track of these malicious accusations, The Standard has compiled most of the major alleged (and sustained) misdeeds against the top candidates into what we’re calling our mayoral dossier.

Use the anchor links below to navigate. That’s right — there are so many scandals that we needed to write a table of contents. 😬

Use the anchor links below to navigate. That’s right — there are so many scandals that we needed to write a table of contents. 😬

<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="#fine191">The $191,000 fine that wasn’t</a></li>



<li><a href="#buyhouse">How hard is it to buy a house?</a></li>



<li><a href="#farrellfavors">Friendly Farrell favors</a></li>



<li><a href="#questionableconnections">Mayoral campaign’s questionable connections</a> </li>
</ul>

core/list-item

<a href="#buyhouse">How hard is it to buy a house?</a>

<li><a href="#buyhouse">How hard is it to buy a house?</a></li>

<a href="#farrellfavors">Friendly Farrell favors</a>

<li><a href="#farrellfavors">Friendly Farrell favors</a></li>

core/list

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><a href="#fine191">The $191,000 fine that wasn’t</a></li><li><a href="#buyhouse">How hard is it to buy a house?</a></li><li><a href="#farrellfavors">Friendly Farrell favors</a></li><li><a href="#questionableconnections">Mayoral campaign’s questionable connections</a> </li></ul>

SF Republicans throw support behind surprising Democrat for mayor

5 fun takeaways from the first San Francisco mayoral debate

Opinion: West Portal tragedy exposes Breed’s failed Vision Zero leadership

A scandal-filled guide to the accusations against SF mayor candidates

Watch: Can ultra-wealthy Daniel Lurie relate to the everyman? Here’s his answer

Search Results for: mark farrell

SF Republicans throw support behind surprising Democrat for mayor

5 fun takeaways from the first San Francisco mayoral debate

Opinion: West Portal tragedy exposes Breed’s failed Vision Zero leadership

A scandal-filled guide to the accusations against SF mayor candidates

Watch: Can ultra-wealthy Daniel Lurie relate to the everyman? Here’s his answer