Joe Fitzgerald Rodriguez

Candidates for office across San Francisco are hoping voters notice that, yes, they too think they just fell out of a coconut tree. They too exist in the context.

core/paragraph

<p>Candidates for office across San Francisco are hoping voters notice that, yes, they too think they just fell out of a coconut tree. They too exist in the context.</p>

Selfies with Vice President Kamala Harris — and Harris campaign paraphernalia — are popping up on candidates’ social media accounts across San Francisco. Coconuts and palm tree emojis have sprouted in Instagram profiles. Everyone’s in on the action: candidates for state Assembly, district attorney, the Board of Supervisors, even the BART Board of Directors.

<p>Selfies with Vice President Kamala Harris — and Harris campaign paraphernalia — are popping up on candidates’ social media accounts across San Francisco. Coconuts and palm tree emojis have sprouted in Instagram profiles. Everyone’s in on the action: candidates for state Assembly, district attorney, the Board of Supervisors, even the BART Board of Directors.</p>

No office is too small, or too obscure, to be saved from the rush for candidates basking in <a href="https://people.com/kamala-harris-brat-summer-charli-xcx-explained-8681485">brat summer</a>.

<p>No office is too small, or too obscure, to be saved from the rush for candidates basking in <a href="https://people.com/kamala-harris-brat-summer-charli-xcx-explained-8681485">brat summer</a>.</p>

“I’ve seen all kinds of crazy pictures, man,” said David Ho, a San Francisco–based political consultant. “It’s a novelty, right? There’s a certain sense of ‘wow, this is groundbreaking, transformative.’ I think this honeymoon is going to last a few weeks.”

<p>“I’ve seen all kinds of crazy pictures, man,” said David Ho, a San Francisco–based political consultant. “It’s a novelty, right? There’s a certain sense of ‘wow, this is groundbreaking, transformative.’ I think this honeymoon is going to last a few weeks.”</p>

Party central: SF Democrats storm Chicago for historic DNC

sf-standard/related-post

sf-standard/related-posts-container

Ho points to the unique opportunity offered to local politicians.

<p>Ho points to the unique opportunity offered to local politicians.</p>

Not only is the nation’s leading Democrat enjoying a surge in polls across demographics, but she also launched her career in San Francisco. Harris raised her first campaign dollars <a href="https://www.politico.com/magazine/story/2019/08/09/kamala-harris-2020-president-profile-san-francisco-elite-227611/">from the wealthiest families in San Francisco</a>. And many city politicians have known her since she was a young prosecutor rising through the ranks in San Francisco.

<p>Not only is the nation’s leading Democrat enjoying a surge in polls across demographics, but she also launched her career in San Francisco. Harris raised her first campaign dollars <a href="https://www.politico.com/magazine/story/2019/08/09/kamala-harris-2020-president-profile-san-francisco-elite-227611/">from the wealthiest families in San Francisco</a>. And many city politicians have known her since she was a young prosecutor rising through the ranks in San Francisco.</p>

Fittingly, then, posed portraits with those same politicians and Harris are as abundant as <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@mxwlch03/video/7394583648571313424">coconut tree TikToks</a>. They all share a singular vibe: asking voters to associate Harris and that local candidate in the hope of earning a vote.

<p>Fittingly, then, posed portraits with those same politicians and Harris are as abundant as <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@mxwlch03/video/7394583648571313424">coconut tree TikToks</a>. They all share a singular vibe: asking voters to associate Harris and that local candidate in the hope of earning a vote.</p>

The photos vary: one with Supervisor Catherine Stefani, a state Assembly hopeful, features Stefani and Harris <a href="https://x.com/Stefani4CA/status/1815217309700759759">standing in front of a stately, snowflake-adorned Christmas tree</a>:

<p>The photos vary: one with Supervisor Catherine Stefani, a state Assembly hopeful, features Stefani and Harris <a href="https://x.com/Stefani4CA/status/1815217309700759759">standing in front of a stately, snowflake-adorned Christmas tree</a>:</p>

core/embed

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://twitter.com/Stefani4CA/status/1815217309700759759
</div></figure>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Kamala Harris is a force to be reckoned with. Proud to endorse her in the past &amp; thrilled to endorse her again today. <br><br>There has never been a greater threat to our values than Donald Trump and his extreme agenda. VP <a href="https://twitter.com/KamalaHarris?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KamalaHarris</a> is ready to lead our country — let’s get to work! <a href="https://t.co/eHvF0p4Zva">pic.twitter.com/eHvF0p4Zva</a></p>&mdash; Catherine Stefani 司嘉怡 (@Stefani4CA) <a href="https://twitter.com/Stefani4CA/status/1815217309700759759?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2024</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Supervisor Connie Chan, who is running for reelection, and who worked for Harris when she was San Francisco district attorney, snagged a photo in which Harris is giving her signature laugh.

<p>Supervisor Connie Chan, who is running for reelection, and who worked for Harris when she was San Francisco district attorney, snagged a photo in which Harris is giving her signature laugh.</p>

Trevor Chandler, a supervisor hopeful, snagged the classic Harris selfie, with part of his face cut off from the oddly angled phone. Luis Zamora is a California Democratic delegate who is also a candidate for the City College of San Francisco Board of Trustees. Late last month, he posted a screenshot of a Zoom call with Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi in which delegates voted to back Harris as the Democratic nominee.

<p>Trevor Chandler, a supervisor hopeful, snagged the classic Harris selfie, with part of his face cut off from the oddly angled phone. Luis Zamora is a California Democratic delegate who is also a candidate for the City College of San Francisco Board of Trustees. Late last month, he posted a screenshot of a Zoom call with Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi in which delegates voted to back Harris as the Democratic nominee.</p>

And, as The Standard <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/29/kamala-harris-london-breed-mayoral-race/">has covered before</a>, even Mayor London Breed has gotten in on the action, repeatedly posting photos alongside the vice president.

Kamala Harris energized SF voters. Will she also help reelect London Breed?

<p>And, as The Standard <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/29/kamala-harris-london-breed-mayoral-race/">has covered before</a>, even Mayor London Breed has gotten in on the action, repeatedly posting photos alongside the vice president.</p>

Some are more creative than others. Edward Wright, a candidate for the BART Board of Directors, crafted his own BART buttons, but <a href="https://x.com/EdwardWrightSF/status/1816276929806561759">spelled in lowercase and emblazoned on a green background</a> to resemble the “brat” memes Gen Z are sharing <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cqqlgq7k374o">to celebrate Harris</a>.

<p>Some are more creative than others. Edward Wright, a candidate for the BART Board of Directors, crafted his own BART buttons, but <a href="https://x.com/EdwardWrightSF/status/1816276929806561759">spelled in lowercase and emblazoned on a green background</a> to resemble the “brat” memes Gen Z are sharing <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cqqlgq7k374o">to celebrate Harris</a>.</p>

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://twitter.com/EdwardWrightSF/status/1816276929806561759
</div></figure>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">I’ve been saying it!!<br><br>Anyway, we made some more of these buttons.<br><br>I’ll have them at Wave Collective tomorrow at 6pm — come by if you’d like one! <a href="https://t.co/4Lq8pJJVjG">https://t.co/4Lq8pJJVjG</a> <a href="https://t.co/dH6dBNBi4J">https://t.co/dH6dBNBi4J</a> <a href="https://t.co/v1fqDc7m5E">pic.twitter.com/v1fqDc7m5E</a></p>&mdash; Edward Wright for BART Board (@EdwardWrightSF) <a href="https://twitter.com/EdwardWrightSF/status/1816276929806561759?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2024</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“I think everyone has felt what could perhaps most accurately be called a vibe shift in international politics,” Wright told The Standard. “And I think everything has become so nationalized now, we feel that on a local level too.”

<p>“I think everyone has felt what could perhaps most accurately be called a vibe shift in international politics,” Wright told The Standard. “And I think everything has become so nationalized now, we feel that on a local level too.”</p>

Wright said he actually crafted the brat-style BART buttons before Harris rebranded her campaign with the signature green-and-black stylings of musical artist Charli XCX’s “brat” iconography.

<p>Wright said he actually crafted the brat-style BART buttons before Harris rebranded her campaign with the signature green-and-black stylings of musical artist Charli XCX’s “brat” iconography.</p>

But when Harris leaned into it, so did Wright. He’s given out hundreds of buttons. People who may not have learned about a candidate for a transit board have now learned Wright’s name.

<p>But when Harris leaned into it, so did Wright. He’s given out hundreds of buttons. People who may not have learned about a candidate for a transit board have now learned Wright’s name.</p>

“There was another surge of interest and enthusiasm. We had to make a lot more buttons,” Wright said.

<p>“There was another surge of interest and enthusiasm. We had to make a lot more buttons,” Wright said.</p>

An Associated Press–NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll r<a href="https://apnews.com/article/harris-trump-honesty-discipline-immigration-ap-poll-f025463df08beacbaa0c51e7bbb7eda7">eleased Wednesday</a> shows two-thirds of Democrats are excited for Harris to be elected. And with so many San Francisco politicians enjoying personal relationships with Harris, it makes sense some would want to join in her zeitgeist.

<p>An Associated Press–NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll r<a href="https://apnews.com/article/harris-trump-honesty-discipline-immigration-ap-poll-f025463df08beacbaa0c51e7bbb7eda7">eleased Wednesday</a> shows two-thirds of Democrats are excited for Harris to be elected. And with so many San Francisco politicians enjoying personal relationships with Harris, it makes sense some would want to join in her zeitgeist.</p>

For down-ballot races like Wright’s, where voters often know little about a candidate, it’s a shortcut to understand more about them by association, said veteran campaign consultant Jim Ross, who worked on Gov. Gavin Newsom’s successful 2003 mayoral election.

<p>For down-ballot races like Wright’s, where voters often know little about a candidate, it’s a shortcut to understand more about them by association, said veteran campaign consultant Jim Ross, who worked on Gov. Gavin Newsom’s successful 2003 mayoral election.</p>

“It’s a signal to voters of where you come from, who you are and what your values are,” Ross said. “On that level, it’s pretty valuable, but it’s not something that’s going to make or break your campaign.”

<p>“It’s a signal to voters of where you come from, who you are and what your values are,” Ross said. “On that level, it’s pretty valuable, but it’s not something that’s going to make or break your campaign.”</p>

And, he added, candidates who have personal experience with the vice president — like Chan, the supervisor, who worked with Harris — may be able to articulate to voters why their experience with the VP will help them in office.

<p>And, he added, candidates who have personal experience with the vice president — like Chan, the supervisor, who worked with Harris — may be able to articulate to voters why their experience with the VP will help them in office.</p>

<p>“It’s a direct link,” Ross said.</p>

The strategy comes with risks, however. When mayoral hopeful Mark Farrell posted a photo of himself in a backwards cap promoting the “White Dudes for Harris” group on social media, he was met with a deluge of negativity from his followers.

<p>The strategy comes with risks, however. When mayoral hopeful Mark Farrell posted a photo of himself in a backwards cap promoting the “White Dudes for Harris” group on social media, he was met with a deluge of negativity from his followers.</p>

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://twitter.com/MarkFarrellSF/status/1818346565515592154
</div></figure>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">To my fellow white dudes &#8211; join me in supporting Vice President Kamala Harris to be our next President. <br><br>She is exactly the leader who we need to protect our freedoms and provide a better life and future for our families 🥥🌴<br><br>Learn more: <a href="https://t.co/KKt2y4eRgH">https://t.co/KKt2y4eRgH</a> <a href="https://t.co/AspKlh0A3V">pic.twitter.com/AspKlh0A3V</a></p>&mdash; Mark Farrell 🥥🌴 (@MarkFarrellSF) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarkFarrellSF/status/1818346565515592154?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2024</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Some local candidates want to harness San Francisco’s brat fever to help Harris.

<p>Some local candidates want to harness San Francisco’s brat fever to help Harris.</p>

City Attorney David Chiu is a California Democratic delegate who will journey to the Democratic National Convention in Chicago next week. In the late 1990s, he worked with Harris in the San Francisco District Attorney’s Office. When she was elected to lead that office in 2003, she tapped him to reform its paper-based systems to rely on computer filing to better track cases.

<p>City Attorney David Chiu is a California Democratic delegate who will journey to the Democratic National Convention in Chicago next week. In the late 1990s, he worked with Harris in the San Francisco District Attorney’s Office. When she was elected to lead that office in 2003, she tapped him to reform its paper-based systems to rely on computer filing to better track cases.</p>

Unsurprisingly, Chiu has also flooded his social media with pro-Harris posts. Chiu is hopeful local Democrats will harness California volunteers to make calls and donate money in swing states, where they can make the most impact.

<p>Unsurprisingly, Chiu has also flooded his social media with pro-Harris posts. Chiu is hopeful local Democrats will harness California volunteers to make calls and donate money in swing states, where they can make the most impact.</p>

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://twitter.com/DavidChiu/status/1815111657603092481
</div></figure>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Today, we thank President Biden for his incredible service to our country, and for having selfless grace in this difficult moment.  <br><br>As a California DNC delegate, I&#39;m incredibly excited to support Vice President <a href="https://twitter.com/KamalaHarris?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KamalaHarris</a> to be our next Democratic nominee. <a href="https://t.co/iqLJ3gjqOy">pic.twitter.com/iqLJ3gjqOy</a></p>&mdash; David Chiu (@DavidChiu) <a href="https://twitter.com/DavidChiu/status/1815111657603092481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“I think it’s not a secret that many delegates were very worried about what was going on and what the convention could entail. Now there’s an incredible sense of optimism and, yes, joy,” Chiu said. “But that being said, I’m sure for all of us, we’re thinking about the next 80-plus days and all the work that will need to be done to ensure that she actually gets to occupy the White House.”

<p>“I think it’s not a secret that many delegates were very worried about what was going on and what the convention could entail. Now there’s an incredible sense of optimism and, yes, joy,” Chiu said. “But that being said, I’m sure for all of us, we’re thinking about the next 80-plus days and all the work that will need to be done to ensure that she actually gets to occupy the White House.”</p>

Ho, the consultant, thinks the only local candidates likely to significantly benefit from a “Kamala bump” in the polls are Mayor London Breed and Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin: Breed because of Harris’ friendship with the mayor and the power of seeing two Black women endorsed by the San Francisco Democratic Party, and Peskin because Harris will turn out progressive voters.

<p>Ho, the consultant, thinks the only local candidates likely to significantly benefit from a “Kamala bump” in the polls are Mayor London Breed and Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin: Breed because of Harris’ friendship with the mayor and the power of seeing two Black women endorsed by the San Francisco Democratic Party, and Peskin because Harris will turn out progressive voters.</p>

Vice President Kamala Harris moves in to hug San Francisco Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin during a fundraiser at the Fairmont San Francisco hotel in San Francisco on August 11.


<figure class="wp-block-image"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/img_5682-jpg.jpeg" alt="A woman in a suit smiles and greets an older man with glasses and a white beard. Several people, including security personnel, are gathered around them." class="wp-image-302668"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Vice President Kamala Harris moves in to hug San Francisco Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin during a fundraiser at the Fairmont San Francisco hotel in San Francisco on August 11.</figcaption></figure>


core/image

<figure class="wp-block-image"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/img_5682-jpg.jpeg" alt="A woman in a suit smiles and greets an older man with glasses and a white beard. Several people, including security personnel, are gathered around them." class="wp-image-302668"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Vice President Kamala Harris moves in to hug San Francisco Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin during a fundraiser at the Fairmont San Francisco hotel in San Francisco on August 11.</figcaption></figure>

Peskin also joined the photo fray: one shows Harris hugging him tightly at a Sunday night fundraiser at the Fairmont Hotel. The other shows Harris and Peskin in their elementary school yearbook — they were classmates.

<p>Peskin also joined the photo fray: one shows Harris hugging him tightly at a Sunday night fundraiser at the Fairmont Hotel. The other shows Harris and Peskin in their elementary school yearbook — they were classmates.</p>

Peskin said he didn’t care about any potential political benefits from his association with Harris. He was just personally ecstatic seeing his elementary school friend poised to lead the White House.

<p>Peskin said he didn’t care about any potential political benefits from his association with Harris. He was just personally ecstatic seeing his elementary school friend poised to lead the White House.</p>

“I’ve known her 55 years,” he said. “It’s pretty amazing the person you know for all your life may be the person who saves your country.”

<p>“I’ve known her 55 years,” he said. “It’s pretty amazing the person you know for all your life may be the person who saves your country.”</p>

SF candidates go selfie-crazy in hopes of basking in Kamala Harris’ glow

Han Li

Wearing a traditional bright red Chinese dress, San Francisco Mayor London Breed was extremely excited at the annual Chinatown parade celebrating the Year of the Dragon. “This is the best Lunar New Year parade in the world!” Breed <a href="https://twitter.com/lihanlihan/status/1761595458852638783" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">yelled passionately</a> into a microphone, looking to the sky as her float arrived at the grandstand.&nbsp;

<p>Wearing a traditional bright red Chinese dress, San Francisco Mayor London Breed was extremely excited at the annual Chinatown parade celebrating the Year of the Dragon. “This is the best Lunar New Year parade in the world!” Breed <a href="https://twitter.com/lihanlihan/status/1761595458852638783" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">yelled passionately</a> into a microphone, looking to the sky as her float arrived at the grandstand.&nbsp;</p>

Her recent calendar reflects that enthusiasm. In total, Breed attended almost 30 Lunar New Year events across the city this year as she looked to garner support from the Asian American community, which helped her win the mayoral race in 2018. On Feb. 10, the first day of the Chinese New Year, she hit up six events within four hours in Chinatown, her office told The Standard.

<p>Her recent calendar reflects that enthusiasm. In total, Breed attended almost 30 Lunar New Year events across the city this year as she looked to garner support from the Asian American community, which helped her win the mayoral race in 2018. On Feb. 10, the first day of the Chinese New Year, she hit up six events within four hours in Chinatown, her office told The Standard.</p>

Behind Breed’s strenuous effort to maximize exposure in the Chinese community are <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/31/san-francisco-mayor-race-breed-lurie-poll/">plummeting poll numbers and a crumbling base of Asian American</a> support as the city has struggled with crime caught in viral videos and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/27/san-francisco-macys-closing/">downtown store closures</a>. Over the past few years, the Asian American community has been increasingly outspoken about public safety and what they see as lawlessness—and the mayor’s inability to fix it.&nbsp;

Bad news for Mayor London Breed in new poll

In another severe blow to San Francisco, Macy’s to close historic Union Square store

<p>Behind Breed’s strenuous effort to maximize exposure in the Chinese community are <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/31/san-francisco-mayor-race-breed-lurie-poll/">plummeting poll numbers and a crumbling base of Asian American</a> support as the city has struggled with crime caught in viral videos and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/27/san-francisco-macys-closing/">downtown store closures</a>. Over the past few years, the Asian American community has been increasingly outspoken about public safety and what they see as lawlessness—and the mayor’s inability to fix it.&nbsp;</p>

Meanwhile, sharks are circling Breed as her competitors aggressively target the moderate, pro-police and pro-business Chinese and Asian voters that could decide the mayor’s race.

<p>Meanwhile, sharks are circling Breed as her competitors aggressively target the moderate, pro-police and pro-business Chinese and Asian voters that could decide the mayor’s race.</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lurie-s-impressive-gains">Lurie’s impressive gains</h2>


core/heading

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lurie-s-impressive-gains">Lurie’s impressive gains</h2>

Two days after the parade, nonprofit founder and Levi’s heir Daniel Lurie, a political newcomer, held a rally to announce his policy platform to address drug abuse in San Francisco.

<p>Two days after the parade, nonprofit founder and Levi’s heir Daniel Lurie, a political newcomer, held a rally to announce his policy platform to address drug abuse in San Francisco.</p>

But Lurie did not choose the Tenderloin or SoMa, the epicenters of the drug crisis. He chose Chinatown to unveil his plan, capitalizing on his impressive gains with the Chinese community.

<p>But Lurie did not choose the Tenderloin or SoMa, the epicenters of the drug crisis. He chose Chinatown to unveil his plan, capitalizing on his impressive gains with the Chinese community.</p>

Prominent Asian American law enforcement officials attended Lurie’s event, including Asian Firefighters Association President Stan Lee and retired San Francisco Police Department Commander Paul Yep. Also present were a dozen other Asian leaders from community nonprofits, political clubs and private businesses.

<p>Prominent Asian American law enforcement officials attended Lurie’s event, including Asian Firefighters Association President Stan Lee and retired San Francisco Police Department Commander Paul Yep. Also present were a dozen other Asian leaders from community nonprofits, political clubs and private businesses.</p>

Mayoral Candidate Daniel Lurie speaks with a supporter while visiting merchants in Chinatown while campaigning in San Francisco on Friday, January, 2024. Lurie, the founder of anti-poverty nonprofit Tipping Point and an heir to the Levi Strauss fortune, is one of the most prominent challengers to Mayor London Breed in this year’s election.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/inlined01_20240229-splitchinesemoderate.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man converses with someone in a street lined with red lanterns and festive flags." class="wp-image-253741"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayoral Candidate Daniel Lurie campaigns in Chinatown in January.</figcaption></figure>


Many of them, such as recall activists Leanna Louie, Selena Chu and Chinese American Democratic Club leader Wilson Chu, are loyal moderates and former Breed supporters.

<p>Many of them, such as recall activists Leanna Louie, Selena Chu and Chinese American Democratic Club leader Wilson Chu, are loyal moderates and former Breed supporters.</p>

“We share a commitment to restoring safety, supporting small businesses,” Lurie said in a statement, “and increasing [Asian American Pacific Islander] representation throughout city government.”

<p>“We share a commitment to restoring safety, supporting small businesses,” Lurie said in a statement, “and increasing [Asian American Pacific Islander] representation throughout city government.”</p>

Tommy Yang, owner of the famous Old Mandarin Islamic Restaurant, was among those in attendance at Lurie’s event. He told The Standard in Chinese that he believes Lurie is the fresh face City Hall needs to get San Francisco back on track.

<p>Tommy Yang, owner of the famous Old Mandarin Islamic Restaurant, was among those in attendance at Lurie’s event. He told The Standard in Chinese that he believes Lurie is the fresh face City Hall needs to get San Francisco back on track.</p>

Mark Farrell, a former supervisor and mayor challenging Breed, has also actively campaigned in Chinatown and with the Chinese community. But so far he lacks Lurie’s momentum of picking up prominent Chinese American supporters, though <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/projects/2024/sf-mayor-poll-takeaways/">a San Francisco Chronicle poll</a> shows that Farrell and Lurie have comparable support among Asian voters.

<p>Mark Farrell, a former supervisor and mayor challenging Breed, has also actively campaigned in Chinatown and with the Chinese community. But so far he lacks Lurie’s momentum of picking up prominent Chinese American supporters, though <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/projects/2024/sf-mayor-poll-takeaways/">a San Francisco Chronicle poll</a> shows that Farrell and Lurie have comparable support among Asian voters.</p>

The day after Breed <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/20/san-francisco-mayor-change-chinatown-sober-housing/">backed off a controversial plan</a> to create a sober housing facility in Chinatown, Farrell <a href="https://twitter.com/MarkFarrellSF/status/1760522052308783334" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">met with vocal business owners</a> who rallied against it.

Mayor drops Chinatown ‘sober housing’ plan amid pushback

<p>The day after Breed <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/20/san-francisco-mayor-change-chinatown-sober-housing/">backed off a controversial plan</a> to create a sober housing facility in Chinatown, Farrell <a href="https://twitter.com/MarkFarrellSF/status/1760522052308783334" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">met with vocal business owners</a> who rallied against it.</p>

Mark Farrell, a former San Francisco mayor and supervisor, formally announce his candidacy at the San Francisco Baseball Academy at 3010 Geary Boulevard in San Francisco on Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2004. Mark Farrell will challenge London Breed and other candidates in the November 2024 mayoral election.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/inlined02_20240229-splitchinesemoderate.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man speaks at a podium with &quot;Mark Farrell for Mayor&quot; signs, a woman stands behind him, and microphones are in front." class="wp-image-253742"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mark Farrell, who formally announced his candidacy for San Francisco mayor in mid-February, has actively campaigned in Chinatown and with the Chinese community.</figcaption></figure>


Though he doesn’t currently hold office, Farrell made his way into the Chinese New Year parade wearing a traditional Chinese outfit and posing with the police lion dance team.

<p>Though he doesn’t currently hold office, Farrell made his way into the Chinese New Year parade wearing a traditional Chinese outfit and posing with the police lion dance team.</p>

Retired Deputy Police Chief Garret Tom publicly supports Farrell and appears in his ads, calling him “a very smart guy and a local boy who loves the city,” with experience in both City Hall and the private sector. But Tom said that Farrell, who only recently began campaigning, has yet to garner much Chinese American support. A loyal moderate, Tom said he would consider Lurie or Breed as his second or third choice under the city’s ranked-choice voting system.

<p>Retired Deputy Police Chief Garret Tom publicly supports Farrell and appears in his ads, calling him “a very smart guy and a local boy who loves the city,” with experience in both City Hall and the private sector. But Tom said that Farrell, who only recently began campaigning, has yet to garner much Chinese American support. A loyal moderate, Tom said he would consider Lurie or Breed as his second or third choice under the city’s ranked-choice voting system.</p>

Meanwhile, Supervisor Ahsha Safaí, despite announcing his candidacy almost a year ago, has struggled to find prominent Chinese American supporters to side with him. On his donor’s list, Gorretti Lui, a philanthropist and board member of the Chinese Historical Society of America, stood out.

<p>Meanwhile, Supervisor Ahsha Safaí, despite announcing his candidacy almost a year ago, has struggled to find prominent Chinese American supporters to side with him. On his donor’s list, Gorretti Lui, a philanthropist and board member of the Chinese Historical Society of America, stood out.</p>

Lui said she supported Safai and Breed because they helped Chinatown during the pandemic, especially by setting aside budgets for a small museum like the historical society during a challenging time when no one was visiting the neighborhood. Lui said the museum received city funds for its building renovation and the curation of a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/04/22/sf-martial-arts-icon-bruce-lee-used-his-platform-to-build-cross-cultural-bridges/">Bruce Lee exhibition</a>.

SF martial arts icon Bruce Lee used his platform to build cross-cultural bridges

<p>Lui said she supported Safai and Breed because they helped Chinatown during the pandemic, especially by setting aside budgets for a small museum like the historical society during a challenging time when no one was visiting the neighborhood. Lui said the museum received city funds for its building renovation and the curation of a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/04/22/sf-martial-arts-icon-bruce-lee-used-his-platform-to-build-cross-cultural-bridges/">Bruce Lee exhibition</a>.</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-potential-wild-cards">The potential wild cards</h2>


Potential wild cards who could disrupt the mayoral race and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/30/san-francisco-mayor-election-asian-chinese-vote/">split the Chinese votes</a> include Chinese American City Attorney David Chiu and longtime Chinatown representative and current Board President Aaron Peskin.

San Francisco mayoral candidates are scrambling to win over Chinese American voters

<p>Potential wild cards who could disrupt the mayoral race and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/30/san-francisco-mayor-election-asian-chinese-vote/">split the Chinese votes</a> include Chinese American City Attorney David Chiu and longtime Chinatown representative and current Board President Aaron Peskin.</p>

Chiu filed for city attorney reelection in November, meaning he’s not currently challenging Breed. In a statement about Asian American votes, he said the community wants leaders who understand them, have deep local roots, deliver results and have a compelling vision.

<p>Chiu filed for city attorney reelection in November, meaning he’s not currently challenging Breed. In a statement about Asian American votes, he said the community wants leaders who understand them, have deep local roots, deliver results and have a compelling vision.</p>

Peskin has long been rumored to be plotting a dark-horse run for mayor but <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/26/san-francisco-progressive-supervisor-aaron-peskin-not-running-mayor/">repeatedly deflected the reports</a>, saying he’s focusing on policy work. However, one source in Chinatown told The Standard that Peskin told them that he will definitely run.

Supervisor Aaron Peskin says he’s definitely not running for mayor: ‘I’m afraid of winning’

<p>Peskin has long been rumored to be plotting a dark-horse run for mayor but <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/26/san-francisco-progressive-supervisor-aaron-peskin-not-running-mayor/">repeatedly deflected the reports</a>, saying he’s focusing on policy work. However, one source in Chinatown told The Standard that Peskin told them that he will definitely run.</p>

District 3 Supervisor Aaron Peskin addresses members of the media during a press conference announcing the release of the draft plan of the San Francisco Waterfront Flood Study at the Ferry Building in San Francisco on January 26, 2024. Officials are proposing flood defenses to combat sea level rise along San Francisco’s waterfront.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/inlined03_20240229-splitchinesemoderate.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man in a suit speaks at a clear podium, gesturing, with a blurred woman in the background." class="wp-image-253743"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Current Board President Aaron Peskin has long been rumored to be plotting a dark-horse run for mayor.</figcaption></figure>


Allan Low, a former park commissioner and progressive attorney, is a strong Peskin ally. But Low surprised some in the community when he showed up to support Lurie in Chinatown on Monday.

<p>Allan Low, a former park commissioner and progressive attorney, is a strong Peskin ally. But Low surprised some in the community when he showed up to support Lurie in Chinatown on Monday.</p>

He explained that Lurie is his personal friend, so he’s supporting him, but the ranked-choice voting system allows him to seek other more progressive candidates.

<p>He explained that Lurie is his personal friend, so he’s supporting him, but the ranked-choice voting system allows him to seek other more progressive candidates.</p>

“The field has yet to be defined,” Low said. “A lot of Asian American voters are still exploring the candidates.”

<p>“The field has yet to be defined,” Low said. “A lot of Asian American voters are still exploring the candidates.”</p>

He emphasized that the Asian American community is not a monolithic voting bloc and noted that political moderates may be splintering off between Breed, Lurie and Farrell.

<p>He emphasized that the Asian American community is not a monolithic voting bloc and noted that political moderates may be splintering off between Breed, Lurie and Farrell.</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-still-team-london">Still Team London</h2>


Breed is not wasting any opportunities to earn some more Asian American community support. At the Chinese New Year Parade grandstand, Breed <a href="https://link.sfstandard.com/view/6436ea099b26044931999510kitg0.nm/22aa76ee">held hands with one</a> high-profile critic, Chino Yang, a rapper who <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/19/chinese-rapper-san-francisco-london-breed/">criticized her as a clown</a> in a rap song, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/27/san-francisco-chino-yang-rap-song-mayor-apology/">triggering a political firestorm</a>. They vowed to work together, creating a perfect reconciliation photo op for the multiple reporters holding cameras and ready to post images to social media.

Restaurant owner fed-up with San Francisco crime slams &#8216;phony ass&#8217; mayor in rap

Rapper says he&#8217;s sorry for music video slamming San Francisco mayor

<p>Breed is not wasting any opportunities to earn some more Asian American community support. At the Chinese New Year Parade grandstand, Breed <a href="https://link.sfstandard.com/view/6436ea099b26044931999510kitg0.nm/22aa76ee">held hands with one</a> high-profile critic, Chino Yang, a rapper who <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/19/chinese-rapper-san-francisco-london-breed/">criticized her as a clown</a> in a rap song, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/27/san-francisco-chino-yang-rap-song-mayor-apology/">triggering a political firestorm</a>. They vowed to work together, creating a perfect reconciliation photo op for the multiple reporters holding cameras and ready to post images to social media.</p>

Despite poor poll numbers, some loyalists—including some Chinese American city commissioners she appointed—are standing by Breed.

<p>Despite poor poll numbers, some loyalists—including some Chinese American city commissioners she appointed—are standing by Breed.</p>

Cyn Wang, a member of the Entertainment Commission, said she’s still “Team London,” praising Breed’s personal resilience as a Black woman rising from public housing to mayor. Wang said Breed has consistently supported Asian parents on education and public safety.

<p>Cyn Wang, a member of the Entertainment Commission, said she’s still “Team London,” praising Breed’s personal resilience as a Black woman rising from public housing to mayor. Wang said Breed has consistently supported Asian parents on education and public safety.</p>

Mayor London Breed chats with seniors and Anni Chung, the President and CEO of Self-Help for the Elderly at a press conference on Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023, at the Lady Shaw Senior Center in Chinatown, hosted by Self-Help for The Elderly, where Police Chief Bill Scott announced a plan to increase the uniformed officers in the districts of the city with majority Asian populations, after both mass shootings during the Lunar New Year, despite “staffing crises.”


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/featured_20240229-splitchinesemoderate.jpg?w=2500" alt="A woman gestures while speaking to seated, masked elderly individuals outdoors. Urban setting, sunny day." class="wp-image-253740"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayor London Breed chats with seniors in Chinatown on Jan. 26, 2023.</figcaption></figure>


“There’s frustration about San Francisco, safety, downtown recovery,” Wang said, “and it’s falling unfairly on her.”

<p>“There’s frustration about San Francisco, safety, downtown recovery,” Wang said, “and it’s falling unfairly on her.”</p>

Wang criticized both Lurie and Farrell as having no track record of working with and supporting the Asian American community.

<p>Wang criticized both Lurie and Farrell as having no track record of working with and supporting the Asian American community.</p>

Lydia So, who serves on the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency Board of Directors, expects four more years of Breed’s leadership, citing her growth over the past five years despite challenges.

<p>Lydia So, who serves on the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency Board of Directors, expects four more years of Breed’s leadership, citing her growth over the past five years despite challenges.</p>

But So added that the mayor and supervisors need to cooperate. Managing the city is defined by teamwork, not partisan ideology, she said.

<p>But So added that the mayor and supervisors need to cooperate. Managing the city is defined by teamwork, not partisan ideology, she said.</p>

Mary Jung, a Democratic Party powerbroker and a moderate leader, said Breed successfully steered the city through a once-in-a-lifetime pandemic, resulting in a lower death rate compared <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2020/08/08/how-san-francisco-beat-other-us-cities-in-fighting-the-coronavirus.html">to other major cities</a>.&nbsp;

<p>Mary Jung, a Democratic Party powerbroker and a moderate leader, said Breed successfully steered the city through a once-in-a-lifetime pandemic, resulting in a lower death rate compared <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2020/08/08/how-san-francisco-beat-other-us-cities-in-fighting-the-coronavirus.html">to other major cities</a>.&nbsp;</p>

Jung also shot fire at other candidates, saying they were “missing in action” while Breed was doing the hard work, facing incredible challenges.

<p>Jung also shot fire at other candidates, saying they were “missing in action” while Breed was doing the hard work, facing incredible challenges.</p>

“It’s easy to criticize,” Jung said. “It’s much harder to lead.”

<p>“It’s easy to criticize,” Jung said. “It’s much harder to lead.”</p>

Inside the cutthroat race to win over San Francisco’s frustrated Asian voters

Gabe Greschler

This summer has been a political whirlwind. But if there’s one certainty we can offer you, it’s that the San Francisco mayor’s race in November will be steeped in seriously big bucks.

<p>This summer has been a political whirlwind. But if there’s one certainty we can offer you, it’s that the San Francisco mayor’s race in November will be steeped in seriously big bucks.</p>

On Thursday, campaigns reported their latest fundraising figures in a contest pitting incumbent Mayor London Breed against four challengers.

<p>On Thursday, campaigns reported their latest fundraising figures in a contest pitting incumbent Mayor London Breed against four challengers.</p>

The five major candidates — Breed, Mark Farrell, Daniel Lurie, Aaron Peskin and Ahsha Safaí — have collectively raised over $3 million. And that’s not counting independent committees, public financing and cash that candidates contribute from their own bank accounts, which will add millions more.&nbsp;

<p>The five major candidates — Breed, Mark Farrell, Daniel Lurie, Aaron Peskin and Ahsha Safaí — have collectively raised over $3 million. And that’s not counting independent committees, public financing and cash that candidates contribute from their own bank accounts, which will add millions more.&nbsp;</p>

Here are three key takeaways from the latest campaign finance disclosure documents, which show figures through June 30.&nbsp;

<p>Here are three key takeaways from the latest campaign finance disclosure documents, which show figures through June 30.&nbsp;</p>

How much has each SF mayoral candidate raised?

sf-standard/datawrapper-chart

Farrell and Lurie are raising tons of money


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-farrell-and-lurie-are-raising-tons-of-money">Farrell and Lurie are raising tons of money</h2>


Both former Supervisor Farrell and nonprofit leader Lurie are raking in serious dough — and each have reasons to be happy with their results.&nbsp;

<p>Both former Supervisor Farrell and nonprofit leader Lurie are raking in serious dough — and each have reasons to be happy with their results.&nbsp;</p>

Farrell started his campaign in February, a bit later than his moderate challengers. Since then, he has raised $654,082 from 1,879 contributors. For candidate-controlled campaigns, the contribution limit is $500 a person.

<p>Farrell started his campaign in February, a bit later than his moderate challengers. Since then, he has raised $654,082 from 1,879 contributors. For candidate-controlled campaigns, the contribution limit is $500 a person.</p>

According to Farrell’s campaign, the average donation is $314, and over 74% comes from donors within the city. He has also received $179,000 in public financing. Farrell is angling for the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/18/san-francisco-mayor-firefighters-endorsement/">firefighter union’s endorsement</a>, which could pack an extra $1 million in support.&nbsp;

Mayoral candidates court the hottest endorsement in town: firefighters

<p>According to Farrell’s campaign, the average donation is $314, and over 74% comes from donors within the city. He has also received $179,000 in public financing. Farrell is angling for the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/18/san-francisco-mayor-firefighters-endorsement/">firefighter union’s endorsement</a>, which could pack an extra $1 million in support.&nbsp;</p>

Farrell has also set up an independent committee supporting a ballot measure that promises to reform local government. That entity, which has raised $985,140 from the likes of real estate power couple Linda and Thomas Coates, can be used to boost Farrell’s name recognition, as long as it doesn’t explicitly mention his mayoral campaign.&nbsp;

<p>Farrell has also set up an independent committee supporting a ballot measure that promises to reform local government. That entity, which has raised $985,140 from the likes of real estate power couple Linda and Thomas Coates, can be used to boost Farrell’s name recognition, as long as it doesn’t explicitly mention his mayoral campaign.&nbsp;</p>

SF candidates go selfie-crazy in hopes of basking in Kamala Harris’ glow

Inside the cutthroat race to win over San Francisco’s frustrated Asian voters

San Francisco moderates stack cash from tech, real estate moguls in mayor’s race

Daniel Lurie launches television blitz as polls appear to tilt toward Breed

Prop. K passes; stretch of Great Highway will close to cars

Search Results for: mark farrell

SF candidates go selfie-crazy in hopes of basking in Kamala Harris’ glow

Inside the cutthroat race to win over San Francisco’s frustrated Asian voters

San Francisco moderates stack cash from tech, real estate moguls in mayor’s race

Daniel Lurie launches television blitz as polls appear to tilt toward Breed

Prop. K passes; stretch of Great Highway will close to cars