Josh Koehn

San Francisco spared no expense on <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/15/joe-biden-san-francisco-tech-elites-apec-summit/">President Joe Biden’s party at the Exploratorium</a> during November’s Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, spending almost $8 million to wine-and-dine a who’s-who of Democratic Party and foreign leaders before a Gwen Stefani concert and massive fireworks show.

Joe Biden parties with Gavin Newsom, Steve Kerr and Gwen Stefani in San Francisco

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San Francisco spared no expense on <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/15/joe-biden-san-francisco-tech-elites-apec-summit/">President Joe Biden’s party at the Exploratorium</a> during November’s Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, spending almost $8 million to wine-and-dine a who’s-who of Democratic Party and foreign leaders before a Gwen Stefani concert and massive fireworks show.

Stefani, a pop superstar whose top hits include “Hollaback Girl” and “The Sweet Escape,” commanded a $1.1 million fee to perform a small set of songs for the Nov. 15 event, according to a rough breakdown of costs the city provided to The Standard. The tab for food and drinks ran to $300,000, while the pyrotechnics and fireworks show cost $167,000.&nbsp;

Stefani, a pop superstar whose top hits include “Hollaback Girl” and “The Sweet Escape,” commanded a $1.1 million fee to perform a small set of songs for the Nov. 15 event, according to a rough breakdown of costs the city provided to The Standard. The tab for food and drinks ran to $300,000, while the pyrotechnics and fireworks show cost $167,000.&nbsp;

All of these bills were paid by a special nonprofit created for APEC, which raised more than $20 million from private donors that included Graton Casino and Resort, Ripple, Salesforce, Apple and others.

All of these bills were paid by a special nonprofit created for APEC, which raised more than $20 million from private donors that included Graton Casino and Resort, Ripple, Salesforce, Apple and others.

Maryam Muduroglu, the city’s chief of protocol, said in a statement that the president’s party and other events during APEC were designed to “help San Francisco shine on a global stage.”

Maryam Muduroglu, the city’s chief of protocol, said in a statement that the president’s party and other events during APEC were designed to “help San Francisco shine on a global stage.”

“As host city of this historic international event, the State Department and the White House tasked us with specific requests to make sure we welcome these dignitaries and their delegations in the most hospitable and memorable way, specifically with the Welcome Reception,” Muduroglu said.

“As host city of this historic international event, the State Department and the White House tasked us with specific requests to make sure we welcome these dignitaries and their delegations in the most hospitable and memorable way, specifically with the Welcome Reception,” Muduroglu said.

READ MORE: <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/13/san-francisco-apec-summit-spent-millions-host-world-leaders/">San Francisco Spent More Than $11M on Staff Overtime, Nearly $8M for Parties During APEC&nbsp;</a>

San Francisco spent more than $11M on staff overtime, $7M for parties during APEC

READ MORE: <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/13/san-francisco-apec-summit-spent-millions-host-world-leaders/">San Francisco Spent More Than $11M on Staff Overtime, Nearly $8M for Parties During APEC&nbsp;</a>

Other expenses for the president’s $8 million party included:

Other expenses for the president’s $8 million party included:

<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>$2.6 million on production (staging, equipment, talent support, operations, security)</li>



<li>$1.7 million on union/vendor Labor</li>



<li>$1 million on the “leaders entrance/decor”</li>



<li>$420,000 to rent out the Exploratorium children’s museum venue,</li>



<li>$415,000 on video and digital app production</li>



<li>$235,000 for the dance group Bandaloop</li>
</ul>

$2.6 million on production (staging, equipment, talent support, operations, security)

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<li>$2.6 million on production (staging, equipment, talent support, operations, security)</li>

<li>$1.7 million on union/vendor Labor</li>

$1 million on the “leaders entrance/decor”

<li>$1 million on the “leaders entrance/decor”</li>

$420,000 to rent out the Exploratorium children’s museum venue,

<li>$420,000 to rent out the Exploratorium children’s museum venue,</li>

$415,000 on video and digital app production

<li>$415,000 on video and digital app production</li>

<li>$235,000 for the dance group Bandaloop</li>

core/list

<ul><li>$2.6 million on production (staging, equipment, talent support, operations, security)</li><li>$1.7 million on union/vendor Labor</li><li>$1 million on the “leaders entrance/decor”</li><li>$420,000 to rent out the Exploratorium children’s museum venue,</li><li>$415,000 on video and digital app production</li><li>$235,000 for the dance group Bandaloop</li></ul>

President Joe Biden gives a thumbs up after watching Gwen Stefani’s performance at his welcome party at Exploratorium during Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) week in San Francisco on Wednesday, November 15, 2023. 

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1668" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/gwen_08.jpg?w=2500" alt="President Joe Biden gives a thumbs up." class="wp-image-222671"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">President Joe Biden gives a thumbs up after watching Gwen Stefani’s performance at the Exploratorium during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in San Francisco on Nov. 15. </figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/gwen_08.jpg?w=2500" alt="President Joe Biden gives a thumbs up." class="wp-image-222671"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">President Joe Biden gives a thumbs up after watching Gwen Stefani’s performance at the Exploratorium during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in San Francisco on Nov. 15. </figcaption></figure>

The party’s guest list not only included foreign leaders, including Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, while prominent members of the Democratic Party mingled with local officials and business leaders.

The party’s guest list not only included foreign leaders, including Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, while prominent members of the Democratic Party mingled with local officials and business leaders.

President Biden and First Lady <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/06/13/jill-biden-spotted-san-francisco-soul-cycle/">Jill Biden</a> were billed as hosts, and they were preceded on stage at the end of the evening by Vice President Kamala Harris, California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Mayor London Breed.

Jill Biden spotted leaving workout class in San Francisco

President Biden and First Lady <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/06/13/jill-biden-spotted-san-francisco-soul-cycle/">Jill Biden</a> were billed as hosts, and they were preceded on stage at the end of the evening by Vice President Kamala Harris, California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Mayor London Breed.

Other notable figures in attendance included Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr, who introduced Biden, and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/21/chris-larsen-ripple-labs-san-francisco-london-breed-ballot-measures/">Ripple co-founder Chris Larsen</a>, Yelp CEO <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/09/27/yelp-ceo-jeremy-stoppelman-on-why-hes-been-a-yimby-since-day-one/">Jeremy Stoppelman</a> and Y Combinator CEO <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/27/garry-tan-y-combinator-declares-war-san-francisco-politics-progressives-elon-musk/">Garry Tan</a>, all of whom have become deeply involved in San Francisco’s political scene. <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/17/openai-sam-altman-fired-apec-talk/">Sam Altman</a>, CEO of OpenAI, and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/07/uber-doordash-drivers-tip-holidays/">Uber</a> CEO Dara Khosrowshahi also were spotted at the party.

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Other notable figures in attendance included Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr, who introduced Biden, and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/21/chris-larsen-ripple-labs-san-francisco-london-breed-ballot-measures/">Ripple co-founder Chris Larsen</a>, Yelp CEO <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/09/27/yelp-ceo-jeremy-stoppelman-on-why-hes-been-a-yimby-since-day-one/">Jeremy Stoppelman</a> and Y Combinator CEO <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/27/garry-tan-y-combinator-declares-war-san-francisco-politics-progressives-elon-musk/">Garry Tan</a>, all of whom have become deeply involved in San Francisco’s political scene. <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/17/openai-sam-altman-fired-apec-talk/">Sam Altman</a>, CEO of OpenAI, and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/07/uber-doordash-drivers-tip-holidays/">Uber</a> CEO Dara Khosrowshahi also were spotted at the party.

Supervisor Aaron Peskin, who attended the early part of the event before leaving to celebrate his wedding anniversary, said he thought the event was nice but was blown away by the total price.

Supervisor Aaron Peskin, who attended the early part of the event before leaving to celebrate his wedding anniversary, said he thought the event was nice but was blown away by the total price.

“It sounds like a bunch of rich people spend too much money on a nice party. It wasn’t an $8 million party from my scant review of things,” Peskin said. “I mean, the hors d&#8217;oeuvres were nice, I guess. But I mean, $8 million? Shit, they could have built affordable housing with that money.”

“It sounds like a bunch of rich people spend too much money on a nice party. It wasn’t an $8 million party from my scant review of things,” Peskin said. “I mean, the hors d'oeuvres were nice, I guess. But I mean, $8 million? Shit, they could have built affordable housing with that money.”

“It sounds like a bunch of rich people spend too much money on a nice party. It wasn’t an $8 million party from my scant review of things,” Peskin said. “I mean, the hors d&#8217;oeuvres were nice, I guess. But I mean, $8 million? Shit, they could have built affordable housing with that money.”

He added: “Some number of individuals and organizations are laughing all the way to the bank.”

He added: “Some number of individuals and organizations are laughing all the way to the bank.”

First Lady Jill Biden, left, and President Joe Biden welcome guest after a performance by Gwen Stefani, right, at President Joe Biden’s welcome party at Exploratorium during Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) week in San Francisco on Wednesday, November 15, 2023. 

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1668" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/gwen_05.jpg?w=2500" alt="First Lady Jill Biden and President Joe Biden stand by Gwen Stefani." class="wp-image-222669"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">First Lady Jill Biden, left, and President Joe Biden deliver remarks after Gwen Stefani performed at the Exploratorium in San Francisco on Nov. 15. </figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/gwen_05.jpg?w=2500" alt="First Lady Jill Biden and President Joe Biden stand by Gwen Stefani." class="wp-image-222669"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">First Lady Jill Biden, left, and President Joe Biden deliver remarks after Gwen Stefani performed at the Exploratorium in San Francisco on Nov. 15. </figcaption></figure>

City officials said they received high marks for their handling of APEC, which required more than $11 million in overtime costs to mobilize San Francisco police and other departments for the weeklong geopolitical summit.&nbsp;

City officials said they received high marks for their handling of APEC, which required more than $11 million in overtime costs to mobilize San Francisco police and other departments for the weeklong geopolitical summit.&nbsp;

“We are extremely pleased with APEC’s success,” Muduroglu said. “Our goal was to highlight the creativity, vibrancy, beauty, and diversity San Francisco represents to the 21 heads of state from APEC member economies and their delegations. We are thrilled to report that we received overwhelmingly excellent feedback from dignitaries, their staff, journalists, and event attendees.”

“We are extremely pleased with APEC’s success,” Muduroglu said. “Our goal was to highlight the creativity, vibrancy, beauty, and diversity San Francisco represents to the 21 heads of state from APEC member economies and their delegations. We are thrilled to report that we received overwhelmingly excellent feedback from dignitaries, their staff, journalists, and event attendees.”

San Francisco spent $1.1M on Gwen Stefani for Biden’s $8 million APEC bash

Priya Anand

President Joe Biden has lost the confidence of some of <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/17/musk-andreessen-horowitz-tech-silicon-valley-trump-biden/">Silicon Valley’s loudest voices</a>, who argue that Donald Trump should be the clear choice for the tech industry.&nbsp;

A running list of Silicon Valley figures who have gone full MAGA

President Joe Biden has lost the confidence of some of <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/17/musk-andreessen-horowitz-tech-silicon-valley-trump-biden/">Silicon Valley’s loudest voices</a>, who argue that Donald Trump should be the clear choice for the tech industry.&nbsp;

But with Biden’s withdrawal from the race, there’s a chance for Kamala Harris to regain the industry’s support by offering an olive branch and distancing herself from some of Biden’s policies.

But with Biden’s withdrawal from the race, there’s a chance for Kamala Harris to regain the industry’s support by offering an olive branch and distancing herself from some of Biden’s policies.

Harris, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/23/kamala-harris-president-san-francisco-campaign-donors/">deeply rooted in the Bay Area</a>, has a roster of influential tech donors, including Ron Conway, John Doerr, Jony Ive, Marc Benioff and Sheryl Sandberg. Many heavyweights have already <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/21/siliconvalley-mulls-kamalaharris-versus-open-democratic-convention/">pledged support</a>, and there is potential to sway the undecided.

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Harris, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/23/kamala-harris-president-san-francisco-campaign-donors/">deeply rooted in the Bay Area</a>, has a roster of influential tech donors, including Ron Conway, John Doerr, Jony Ive, Marc Benioff and Sheryl Sandberg. Many heavyweights have already <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/21/siliconvalley-mulls-kamalaharris-versus-open-democratic-convention/">pledged support</a>, and there is potential to sway the undecided.

“It would be very impactful for her to say she thinks the innovation economy is really important,” said Adam Kovacevich, founder of Chamber of Progress, a tech lobbying firm. “Just to acknowledge that fact would go a long way. That doesn’t mean she has to side with tech on everything.”

“It would be very impactful for her to say she thinks the innovation economy is really important,” said Adam Kovacevich, founder of Chamber of Progress, a tech lobbying firm. “Just to acknowledge that fact would go a long way. That doesn’t mean she has to side with tech on everything.”

Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff welcomes the crowd before his talk with Governor Gavin Newsom at Dreamforce in San Francisco on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1668" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/NewsomDreamforce-030.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man in a gray suit and black shirt is speaking into a microphone on stage, gesturing with one hand. The background is a mix of green foliage and a blue screen." class="wp-image-200713"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff has supported Harris in her previous campaigns.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/NewsomDreamforce-030.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man in a gray suit and black shirt is speaking into a microphone on stage, gesturing with one hand. The background is a mix of green foliage and a blue screen." class="wp-image-200713"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff has supported Harris in her previous campaigns.</figcaption></figure>

The Biden administration sought to rein in the potential monopoly power of tech giants through the Federal Trade Commission and impose tighter controls on cryptocurrencies through the Securities and Exchange Commission — leading some to perceive the White House as hostile to technological progress. The president’s distance from Silicon Valley, both personally and professionally, doesn’t help.

The Biden administration sought to rein in the potential monopoly power of tech giants through the Federal Trade Commission and impose tighter controls on cryptocurrencies through the Securities and Exchange Commission — leading some to perceive the White House as hostile to technological progress. The president’s distance from Silicon Valley, both personally and professionally, doesn’t help.

“Biden had no real roots in the Valley and very few relationships,” Kovacevich said.

“Biden had no real roots in the Valley and very few relationships,” Kovacevich said.

Harris’ boosters see her candidacy as an opportunity for a pivot. “Bring this back to the White House,” Eniac Ventures investor Nihal Mehta texted, with a photo of former President Barack Obama and Elon Musk during a visit to SpaceX.&nbsp;

Harris’ boosters see her candidacy as an opportunity for a pivot. “Bring this back to the White House,” Eniac Ventures investor Nihal Mehta texted, with a photo of former President Barack Obama and Elon Musk during a visit to SpaceX.&nbsp;

Mehta plans to host several fundraisers for Harris this fall with his wife, Reshma Saujani, founder of Girls Who Code. Harris should “reconnect to all the innovators in the tech industry,” Mehta added, including Musk, whom Biden criticized in a <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden/status/1813716534499393678">recent tweet</a>.

Mehta plans to host several fundraisers for Harris this fall with his wife, Reshma Saujani, founder of Girls Who Code. Harris should “reconnect to all the innovators in the tech industry,” Mehta added, including Musk, whom Biden criticized in a <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden/status/1813716534499393678">recent tweet</a>.

Mehta hopes Harris will hold roundtables with prominent executives in artificial intelligence, including those at Nvidia, Anthropic and Hugging Face. As vice president, Harris took on the role of AI czar and spearheaded the Biden administration’s <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2023/10/30/executive-order-on-the-safe-secure-and-trustworthy-development-and-use-of-artificial-intelligence/">sweeping executive order</a> calling for voluntary standards around safe development of the technology.

Mehta hopes Harris will hold roundtables with prominent executives in artificial intelligence, including those at Nvidia, Anthropic and Hugging Face. As vice president, Harris took on the role of AI czar and spearheaded the Biden administration’s <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2023/10/30/executive-order-on-the-safe-secure-and-trustworthy-development-and-use-of-artificial-intelligence/">sweeping executive order</a> calling for voluntary standards around safe development of the technology.

It has been mere days since Biden dropped out and Harris stepped into the limelight, so the fundraising wars are just starting to heat up. Billions of dollars of tech wealth are in play.&nbsp;

It has been mere days since Biden dropped out and Harris stepped into the limelight, so the fundraising wars are just starting to heat up. Billions of dollars of tech wealth are in play.&nbsp;

Trump’s vice presidential pick, J.D. Vance, is headlining a fundraiser Monday in Palo Alto, according to an invitation <a href="https://x.com/teddyschleifer/status/1815751711601868970">tweeted</a> by a New York Times reporter. <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/17/musk-andreessen-horowitz-tech-silicon-valley-trump-biden/">Vance</a>, a former venture capitalist, once worked for Peter Thiel and has been claimed by the members of the influential “All-In” podcast as a member of their clique, a group of tech investors that has skewed to the right in recent years.

Trump’s vice presidential pick, J.D. Vance, is headlining a fundraiser Monday in Palo Alto, according to an invitation <a href="https://x.com/teddyschleifer/status/1815751711601868970">tweeted</a> by a New York Times reporter. <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/17/musk-andreessen-horowitz-tech-silicon-valley-trump-biden/">Vance</a>, a former venture capitalist, once worked for Peter Thiel and has been claimed by the members of the influential “All-In” podcast as a member of their clique, a group of tech investors that has skewed to the right in recent years.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-fresh-start">A fresh start?</h2>

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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-fresh-start">A fresh start?</h2>

Ben Horowitz and Marc Andreessen, general partners at Andreessen Horowitz, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_sNclEgQZQ">said on their podcast</a> last week that they thought Trump would be more helpful than Biden when it comes to regulation of crypto and AI. “The future of our business, the future of technology, new technology and the future of America is literally at stake, so here we are. And for little tech, we think Donald Trump is actually the right choice,” Horowitz said.

Ben Horowitz and Marc Andreessen, general partners at Andreessen Horowitz, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_sNclEgQZQ">said on their podcast</a> last week that they thought Trump would be more helpful than Biden when it comes to regulation of crypto and AI. “The future of our business, the future of technology, new technology and the future of America is literally at stake, so here we are. And for little tech, we think Donald Trump is actually the right choice,” Horowitz said.

The Harris campaign may be getting the message. Billionaire Mark Cuban told Decrypt he had received questions from her campaign about crypto, the publication <a href="https://decrypt.co/241214/mark-cuban-says-kamala-harris-far-more-open-crypto-biden">reported</a> Tuesday. However, it’s still unclear whether the regulatory scrutiny the industry has <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-07-20/crypto-industry-wants-trump-to-win-and-call-off-the-sec">bristled at under</a> SEC chair Gary Gensler would relax on her watch.

The Harris campaign may be getting the message. Billionaire Mark Cuban told Decrypt he had received questions from her campaign about crypto, the publication <a href="https://decrypt.co/241214/mark-cuban-says-kamala-harris-far-more-open-crypto-biden">reported</a> Tuesday. However, it’s still unclear whether the regulatory scrutiny the industry has <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-07-20/crypto-industry-wants-trump-to-win-and-call-off-the-sec">bristled at under</a> SEC chair Gary Gensler would relax on her watch.

Harris’ relationship with the tech industry has evolved since her time as San Francisco’s district attorney and California’s attorney general. In those roles, she made <a href="https://www.politico.com/magazine/story/2019/02/01/kamala-harris-porn-california-attorney-general-facebook-twitter-silicon-valley-224534/">combating cyberbullying and ensuring online privacy</a> key initiatives and worked to stem the use of tech platforms to share sexually explicit images or videos of individuals without their consent. Notably, she did not support calls for breaking up Big Tech companies, instead advocating for regulation that ensures consumers’ privacy is not compromised.

Harris’ relationship with the tech industry has evolved since her time as San Francisco’s district attorney and California’s attorney general. In those roles, she made <a href="https://www.politico.com/magazine/story/2019/02/01/kamala-harris-porn-california-attorney-general-facebook-twitter-silicon-valley-224534/">combating cyberbullying and ensuring online privacy</a> key initiatives and worked to stem the use of tech platforms to share sexually explicit images or videos of individuals without their consent. Notably, she did not support calls for breaking up Big Tech companies, instead advocating for regulation that ensures consumers’ privacy is not compromised.

Harris has similarly maintained a middle ground in the Biden administration, <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/speeches-remarks/2023/11/01/remarks-by-vice-president-harris-on-the-future-of-artificial-intelligence-london-united-kingdom/">saying in a November speech</a> about AI that she and the president “reject the false choice that suggests we can either protect the public or advance innovation. We can and we must do both.”

Harris has similarly maintained a middle ground in the Biden administration, <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/speeches-remarks/2023/11/01/remarks-by-vice-president-harris-on-the-future-of-artificial-intelligence-london-united-kingdom/">saying in a November speech</a> about AI that she and the president “reject the false choice that suggests we can either protect the public or advance innovation. We can and we must do both.”

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - NOVEMBER 03:  Andreesen Horowitz partner Marc Andreesen speaks during the Fortune Global Forum on November 3, 2015 in San Francisco, California. Business leaders are attending the Fortune Global Forum that runs through November 4.  (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/GettyImages-495485702-2.jpg?w=2048" alt="A bald, bearded man in a suit is smiling and gesturing with his hands. He is seated at a table with two water bottles in front of him and a microphone clipped to his shirt." class="wp-image-133258"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Andreessen Horowitz partner Marc Andreessen has publically pledged his support to Donald Trump after previously endorsing Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama.</figcaption></figure>

But there’s policy, and then there are hurt feelings. At least part of the discontent toward the Biden administration comes from a feeling that while the tech industry has been a huge driver for the economy, its executives and the wealth they helped create have been vilified by the left.&nbsp;

But there’s policy, and then there are hurt feelings. At least part of the discontent toward the Biden administration comes from a feeling that while the tech industry has been a huge driver for the economy, its executives and the wealth they helped create have been vilified by the left.&nbsp;

Indeed, Horowitz lamented on the podcast that he and Andreessen had tried and failed to meet with Biden. Andreessen added that he previously endorsed&nbsp;Obama and Hillary Clinton and had met with a number of presidents.&nbsp;

Indeed, Horowitz lamented on the podcast that he and Andreessen had tried and failed to meet with Biden. Andreessen added that he previously endorsed&nbsp;Obama and Hillary Clinton and had met with a number of presidents.&nbsp;

Musk, who <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/17/musk-andreessen-horowitz-tech-silicon-valley-trump-biden/">endorsed</a> Trump after the former president’s assassination attempt, has made clear he felt <a href="https://x.com/elonmusk/status/1527843657214218246">personally alienated</a> by the Biden administration. His key example was when the White House held up General Motors, rather than Tesla, <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2022/02/22/elon-musk-accuses-biden-of-ignoring-tesla-but-says-he-would-do-the-right-thing-if-invited-to-white-house.html">as a leader</a> in the electric vehicle industry.

Musk, who <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/17/musk-andreessen-horowitz-tech-silicon-valley-trump-biden/">endorsed</a> Trump after the former president’s assassination attempt, has made clear he felt <a href="https://x.com/elonmusk/status/1527843657214218246">personally alienated</a> by the Biden administration. His key example was when the White House held up General Motors, rather than Tesla, <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2022/02/22/elon-musk-accuses-biden-of-ignoring-tesla-but-says-he-would-do-the-right-thing-if-invited-to-white-house.html">as a leader</a> in the electric vehicle industry.

Musk <a href="https://x.com/elonmusk/status/1423156475799683075">tweeted</a> that Tesla hadn’t been invited to White House events about the EV industry and once wrote that the Biden administration had “done everything it can to sideline &amp; ignore Tesla, even though we have made twice as many EVs as the rest of the US industry combined.”

Musk <a href="https://x.com/elonmusk/status/1423156475799683075">tweeted</a> that Tesla hadn’t been invited to White House events about the EV industry and once wrote that the Biden administration had “done everything it can to sideline &amp; ignore Tesla, even though we have made twice as many EVs as the rest of the US industry combined.”

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-tech-veepstakes">The tech veepstakes</h2>

One factor that could color how Silicon Valley perceives Harris is her choice of running mate. Just as Trump chose a former venture capitalist with close ties to tech, Harris has the chance to use her VP pick to bolster her bona fides in the industry.&nbsp;

One factor that could color how Silicon Valley perceives Harris is her choice of running mate. Just as Trump chose a former venture capitalist with close ties to tech, Harris has the chance to use her VP pick to bolster her bona fides in the industry.&nbsp;

Among the potential picks is&nbsp; Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, who recently <a href="https://www.kentucky.com/news/politics-government/article287429090.html">vetoed a bill</a> allowing self-driving cars on state roads while <a href="https://www.coindesk.com/markets/2021/03/26/kentucky-governor-signs-tax-breaks-for-crypto-miners-into-law/">signing into law tax breaks</a> for crypto miners.

Among the potential picks is&nbsp; Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, who recently <a href="https://www.kentucky.com/news/politics-government/article287429090.html">vetoed a bill</a> allowing self-driving cars on state roads while <a href="https://www.coindesk.com/markets/2021/03/26/kentucky-governor-signs-tax-breaks-for-crypto-miners-into-law/">signing into law tax breaks</a> for crypto miners.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, who has <a href="https://www.followthemoney.org/entity-details?eid=6454796&amp;default=candidate">received donations</a> from LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman and Ripple Labs founder Chris Larsen, has <a href="https://www.pa.gov/en/governor/newsroom/press-releases/governor-josh-shapiro-signs-executive-order-on-commonwealth-use-.html">signed an executive order</a> on generative AI use by government employees.&nbsp;

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, who has <a href="https://www.followthemoney.org/entity-details?eid=6454796&amp;default=candidate">received donations</a> from LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman and Ripple Labs founder Chris Larsen, has <a href="https://www.pa.gov/en/governor/newsroom/press-releases/governor-josh-shapiro-signs-executive-order-on-commonwealth-use-.html">signed an executive order</a> on generative AI use by government employees.&nbsp;

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, who raised funds from prominent Silicon Valley executives during his 2020 presidential run, is another possibility. He has connections with figures like Hoffman and investors that include Fred Wilson of Union Square Ventures and Sarah Tavel of Benchmark.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, who raised funds from prominent Silicon Valley executives during his 2020 presidential run, is another possibility. He has connections with figures like Hoffman and investors that include Fred Wilson of Union Square Ventures and Sarah Tavel of Benchmark.

Buttigieg was the 2020 candidate of choice for Palantir Technologies adviser Jacob Helberg, who is married to prominent venture capitalist Keith Rabois and <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2024/05/14/trump-donors-tech-jacob-helberg/">reportedly donated</a> $1 million this year to efforts to reelect Trump.

Buttigieg was the 2020 candidate of choice for Palantir Technologies adviser Jacob Helberg, who is married to prominent venture capitalist Keith Rabois and <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2024/05/14/trump-donors-tech-jacob-helberg/">reportedly donated</a> $1 million this year to efforts to reelect Trump.

Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly, one of the architects of the CHIPS Act, which provided billions of dollars for U.S. semiconductor manufacturing, is also seen as a strong contender.

Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly, one of the architects of the CHIPS Act, which provided billions of dollars for U.S. semiconductor manufacturing, is also seen as a strong contender.

President Biden lost the tech industry’s confidence. Can Kamala pivot? 

Jonah Owen Lamb

In a recent meeting with San Francisco’s police union where she asked for its endorsement, Mayor London Breed promised to appoint someone with law enforcement experience to the Police Commission and reduce the powers of the city’s police watchdog. Her comments come as the city’s mayoral race heats up, with Breed and several of her challengers running on a tough-on-crime platform.&nbsp;

In a recent meeting with San Francisco’s police union where she asked for its endorsement, Mayor London Breed promised to appoint someone with law enforcement experience to the Police Commission and reduce the powers of the city’s police watchdog. Her comments come as the city’s mayoral race heats up, with Breed and several of her challengers running on a tough-on-crime platform.&nbsp;

Breed met with the San Francisco Police Officers Association on April 10 and was asked questions about the department’s leadership, morale and reforms, according to a copy of the union’s May journal obtained by The Standard.&nbsp;

Breed met with the San Francisco Police Officers Association on April 10 and was asked questions about the department’s leadership, morale and reforms, according to a copy of the union’s May journal obtained by The Standard.&nbsp;

The union has yet to back any candidate for mayor and, until this election cycle, had been out of the endorsement game for some time. The union recently <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/08/police-union-poa-marjan/">made its first endorsement</a> in years, backing a Breed ally, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/01/marjan-philhour-campaign-richmond-supervisor-san-francisco-november-2024-election/">Marjan Philhour</a>, who is vying for a supervisor seat. As recently as four years ago, the union’s endorsement was political kryptonite in the wake of anti-police protests after the killing of George Floyd. Union President Tracy McCray did not return a call for comment.&nbsp;

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The union has yet to back any candidate for mayor and, until this election cycle, had been out of the endorsement game for some time. The union recently <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/08/police-union-poa-marjan/">made its first endorsement</a> in years, backing a Breed ally, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/01/marjan-philhour-campaign-richmond-supervisor-san-francisco-november-2024-election/">Marjan Philhour</a>, who is vying for a supervisor seat. As recently as four years ago, the union’s endorsement was political kryptonite in the wake of anti-police protests after the killing of George Floyd. Union President Tracy McCray did not return a call for comment.&nbsp;

Tracy McCray, the President of the San Francisco Police Officers Association (SFPOA) in an advertisement financed and produced by the CEO of Ripple Chris Larsen in collaboration with San Francisco Police Officers Association (SFPOA) encouraging individuals to apply to the San Francisco Police Department.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/INLINED1_SFPDPRCampaign040123.jpg?w=1978" alt="A person is in a car's passenger seat, looking to the side, with street view behind them." class="wp-image-144282"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Tracy McCray, president of the San Francisco Police Officers Association, appears in an advertisement financed and produced by the CEO of Ripple, Chris Larsen.</figcaption></figure>

Breed, who has <a href="https://www.sfexaminer.com/news/police-union-strong-arms-board-of-supervisors-over-controversial-resolution-on-police-brutality-protests/article_7a4fc907-5c4d-536e-a003-dc037fe5e17a.html">crossed swords with the union</a> in the past, told the gathered officers that she was “willing to admit when she had made mistakes” and that her actions have been “inconsistent” and not always supportive of police, according to the journal’s notes of the meeting.

Breed, who has <a href="https://www.sfexaminer.com/news/police-union-strong-arms-board-of-supervisors-over-controversial-resolution-on-police-brutality-protests/article_7a4fc907-5c4d-536e-a003-dc037fe5e17a.html">crossed swords with the union</a> in the past, told the gathered officers that she was “willing to admit when she had made mistakes” and that her actions have been “inconsistent” and not always supportive of police, according to the journal’s notes of the meeting.

The general tone of her remarks appears to be an effort to walk a fine line by buttressing the support of officers by supporting most of their demands but not totally turning her back on oversight and reform.&nbsp;

The general tone of her remarks appears to be an effort to walk a fine line by buttressing the support of officers by supporting most of their demands but not totally turning her back on oversight and reform.&nbsp;

Breed’s remarks also addressed the rank and files’ concerns around the activity of the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/29/san-francisco-police-watchdog-budget-cuts/">Department of Police Accountability</a>, whose powers have been expanded in recent years as part of the larger reform efforts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

San Francisco police watchdog budget cuts will hinder investigations, union says

Breed’s remarks also addressed the rank and files’ concerns around the activity of the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/29/san-francisco-police-watchdog-budget-cuts/">Department of Police Accountability</a>, whose powers have been expanded in recent years as part of the larger reform efforts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Breed said she “wants to improve the department&#8217;s overall morale by reining in the unfair practices of the DPA.”&nbsp;

Breed said she “wants to improve the department's overall morale by reining in the unfair practices of the DPA.”&nbsp;

Breed said she “wants to improve the department&#8217;s overall morale by reining in the unfair practices of the DPA.”&nbsp;

Those changes could include a ballot measure that would make sure human resources material is not included in DPA reports, even reports not meant for the public.&nbsp;

Those changes could include a ballot measure that would make sure human resources material is not included in DPA reports, even reports not meant for the public.&nbsp;

Curiously, the publication of such materials prompted the union to call for a probe after an unredacted Police Commission agenda item was inadvertently published <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/04/san-francisco-police-union-alleges-leak/">by the commission</a> and then removed.

San Francisco police union alleges leak, calls for probe

Curiously, the publication of such materials prompted the union to call for a probe after an unredacted Police Commission agenda item was inadvertently published <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/04/san-francisco-police-union-alleges-leak/">by the commission</a> and then removed.

Mayor London Breed speaks during a press conference outside of the Chase Center in San Francisco on Wednesday, April 10, 2024. Mayor London Breed is flying to China this Saturday with a 30-person delegation, kicking off a week-long diplomatic trip to strengthen the city’s international image and promote local tourism.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1668" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/20240411-chinatripwhogoing-_eg_012.jpg?w=2500" alt="A woman stands at a mic. " class="wp-image-266402"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayor London Breed speaks during a press conference outside of the Chase Center in San Francisco on April 10.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/20240411-chinatripwhogoing-_eg_012.jpg?w=2500" alt="A woman stands at a mic. " class="wp-image-266402"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayor London Breed speaks during a press conference outside of the Chase Center in San Francisco on April 10.</figcaption></figure>

In a particularly loaded question, an officer asked Breed if she would back the department if “another George Floyd-type incident occurred.” She responded by saying she would remain supportive &#8220;of officers who are doing their job.”

In a particularly loaded question, an officer asked Breed if she would back the department if “another George Floyd-type incident occurred.” She responded by saying she would remain supportive "of officers who are doing their job.”

In a particularly loaded question, an officer asked Breed if she would back the department if “another George Floyd-type incident occurred.” She responded by saying she would remain supportive &#8220;of officers who are doing their job.”

Despite such promises, Breed told the officers that she still supports the reform progress the department has made under Chief Bill Scott.

Despite such promises, Breed told the officers that she still supports the reform progress the department has made under Chief Bill Scott.

Breed told the officers Scott, whom one of her opponents in the race for mayor, Mark Farrell, has said he will fire if elected, has been in “this position for a long time, and she will have discussions with the chief on his future.”

Breed told the officers Scott, whom one of her opponents in the race for mayor, Mark Farrell, has said he will fire if elected, has been in “this position for a long time, and she will have discussions with the chief on his future.”

Scott, whose office did not respond to a request for comment, is a former Los Angeles Police Department deputy chief and has been San Francisco’s chief since January 2017.&nbsp;

Scott, whose office did not respond to a request for comment, is a former Los Angeles Police Department deputy chief and has been San Francisco’s chief since January 2017.&nbsp;

Any change at the department’s top may not be possible until the Police Commission has new members.

Any change at the department’s top may not be possible until the Police Commission has new members.

Max Carter-Oberstone of the San Francisco Police Commission speaks at a press conference at San Francisco City Hall on Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2023, with the goal of ending racially-biased traffic stops by police in San Francisco. 

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/sfpdtrafficstops011022-12.jpg?w=1793" alt="A man in a suit speaks at a podium." class="wp-image-265235"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Max&nbsp;Carter-Oberstone&nbsp;of the San Francisco Police Commission speaks at a press conference at San Francisco City Hall in January 2023.</figcaption></figure>

The current makeup of the police commission does not favor Breed, even though she appointed the majority. One of her appointees, Max Carter-Oberstone, fell out with her after releasing details of how she <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/09/27/mayor-breed-made-appointees-sign-undated-resignation-letters-here-are-40-who-submitted-them/">made appointees sign resignation letters</a> upon taking their seats. It&#8217;s not likely he would support a replacement of Scott to Breed’s liking.&nbsp;

Mayor Breed made appointees sign preemptive resignation letters. Here are 40 who submitted them

The current makeup of the police commission does not favor Breed, even though she appointed the majority. One of her appointees, Max Carter-Oberstone, fell out with her after releasing details of how she <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/09/27/mayor-breed-made-appointees-sign-undated-resignation-letters-here-are-40-who-submitted-them/">made appointees sign resignation letters</a> upon taking their seats. It's not likely he would support a replacement of Scott to Breed’s liking.&nbsp;

The current makeup of the police commission does not favor Breed, even though she appointed the majority. One of her appointees, Max Carter-Oberstone, fell out with her after releasing details of how she <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/09/27/mayor-breed-made-appointees-sign-undated-resignation-letters-here-are-40-who-submitted-them/">made appointees sign resignation letters</a> upon taking their seats. It&#8217;s not likely he would support a replacement of Scott to Breed’s liking.&nbsp;

Once Carter-Oberstone’s time on the commission ends, Breed told the union that she plans to appoint a former police officer or prosecutor to the commission because it &#8220;does not promote effective policies for proactive policing.”

Once Carter-Oberstone’s time on the commission ends, Breed told the union that she plans to appoint a former police officer or prosecutor to the commission because it "does not promote effective policies for proactive policing.”

Once Carter-Oberstone’s time on the commission ends, Breed told the union that she plans to appoint a former police officer or prosecutor to the commission because it &#8220;does not promote effective policies for proactive policing.”

Breed has already put forward a commission candidate with such a background. Breed has nominated retired Alameda County Superior Court Judge Don Clay to replace Jim Byrne on the commission.

Breed has already put forward a commission candidate with such a background. Breed has nominated retired Alameda County Superior Court Judge Don Clay to replace Jim Byrne on the commission.

Breed said that Prop. E, which expanded police powers and limited the civilian oversight tools of the Police Commission, was her effort to “take politics” out of policing and would help officers be more proactive. The ballot measure also expanded police authority to initiate high-speed chases to include more minor offenses.&nbsp;

Breed said that Prop. E, which expanded police powers and limited the civilian oversight tools of the Police Commission, was her effort to “take politics” out of policing and would help officers be more proactive. The ballot measure also expanded police authority to initiate high-speed chases to include more minor offenses.&nbsp;

San Francisco Police Dept. (SFPD) Chief Bill Scott speaks with members of the media before the Tenderloin Public Safety Town Hall event at the St. Boniface Church Theater in San Francisco on Thursday, Jan. 26, 2024. The St. Anthony’s Foundation organized the event in order to address recent shootings and the ongoing drug crisis, and to give community members an opportunity to receive updates on safety solutions enacted by the district attorney’s office and law enforcement.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1667" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/tenderloinpublicsafetymeeting-32.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man stands at a mic. " class="wp-image-247424"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott speaks with members of the media before the Tenderloin Public Safety Town Hall event at the St. Boniface Church Theater in San Francisco on Jan. 26.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/tenderloinpublicsafetymeeting-32.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man stands at a mic. " class="wp-image-247424"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott speaks with members of the media before the Tenderloin Public Safety Town Hall event at the St. Boniface Church Theater in San Francisco on Jan. 26.</figcaption></figure>

<a href="https://www.aclunc.org/no-on-e">The American Civil Liberties Union</a> has said, “Prop. E is about politics, not public safety. It is a rash attempt to exploit voters’ frustrations with crime to distract from an unpopular mayor’s record and hand more power to the SFPD.”

<a href="https://www.aclunc.org/no-on-e">The American Civil Liberties Union</a> has said, “Prop. E is about politics, not public safety. It is a rash attempt to exploit voters’ frustrations with crime to distract from an unpopular mayor’s record and hand more power to the SFPD.”

While not explicitly mentioned, the concerns around proactive policing may have been in reference to the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/21/san-francisco-police-commission-final-vote-to-limit-pretext-stops/">last policy voted on by the commission</a> before Prop. E passed. That policy barred pretext stops, which is when an officer pulls someone over for a low-level offense as a pretext for what the officer suspects is a more serious crime.

San Francisco police watchdog votes to curb &#8216;biased&#8217; traffic stops

While not explicitly mentioned, the concerns around proactive policing may have been in reference to the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/21/san-francisco-police-commission-final-vote-to-limit-pretext-stops/">last policy voted on by the commission</a> before Prop. E passed. That policy barred pretext stops, which is when an officer pulls someone over for a low-level offense as a pretext for what the officer suspects is a more serious crime.

Critics of Prop. E, including the ACLU, say it was a step backward for reform and oversight, as it made it far easier for the police department to stall policies the brass does not like.

Critics of Prop. E, including the ACLU, say it was a step backward for reform and oversight, as it made it far easier for the police department to stall policies the brass does not like.

Executive Director of the San Francisco Department of Police Accountability Paul Henderson speaks during the hearing, in San Francisco on Wednesday, July 19, 2023. Community members attended the hearing at City Hall to gather details and about the Dolores Hill Bomb and raise qualms about the subsequent arrests. | Jeremy Chen/The Standard

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1668" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/SkateBombFolo071923_20.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man sits beside a police commission panel." class="wp-image-183699"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">San Francisco Department of Police Accountability Executive Director Paul Henderson speaks during a police commission hearing in July 2023.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/SkateBombFolo071923_20.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man sits beside a police commission panel." class="wp-image-183699"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">San Francisco Department of Police Accountability Executive Director Paul Henderson speaks during a police commission hearing in July 2023.</figcaption></figure>

Paul Henderson, who heads the Department of Police Accountability, said he was disappointed with the comments in the journal, and said his department will continue to follow the law and its mandate.

Paul Henderson, who heads the Department of Police Accountability, said he was disappointed with the comments in the journal, and said his department will continue to follow the law and its mandate.

Police Commission President Cindy Elias did not respond to a request for comment, but Commissioner Kevin Benedicto did, saying that he finds it bizarre the mayor has attacked the commission for its composition, which it has no control over. Whatever the body&#8217;s makeup, Benedicto defended the expertise of its members and their ability to mold department policy.

Police Commission President Cindy Elias did not respond to a request for comment, but Commissioner Kevin Benedicto did, saying that he finds it bizarre the mayor has attacked the commission for its composition, which it has no control over. Whatever the body's makeup, Benedicto defended the expertise of its members and their ability to mold department policy.

Police Commission President Cindy Elias did not respond to a request for comment, but Commissioner Kevin Benedicto did, saying that he finds it bizarre the mayor has attacked the commission for its composition, which it has no control over. Whatever the body&#8217;s makeup, Benedicto defended the expertise of its members and their ability to mold department policy.

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