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.

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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.

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

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

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;

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;

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

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

How much has each SF mayoral candidate raised?

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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>

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<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;

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

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.

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.

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

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;

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;

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;

Lurie has also had fundraising success — impressive as he was relatively unknown as a political figure before launching his campaign in the fall. However, some of his haul came from his own pocket.

Lurie has also had fundraising success — impressive as he was relatively unknown as a political figure before launching his campaign in the fall. However, some of his haul came from his own pocket.

Lurie has raised $823,000 from 2,641 donors, more than 66% of them in San Francisco, and has spent $590,000 himself. He is not taking public financing dollars.&nbsp;

Lurie has raised $823,000 from 2,641 donors, more than 66% of them in San Francisco, and has spent $590,000 himself. He is not taking public financing dollars.&nbsp;

Apart from the campaign committee, Lurie is backed by an independent expenditure committee that has raised $1.9 million this year — much of it from <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/01/daniel-lurie-campaign-finance-believe-in-sf/">ultra-wealthy donors</a>, such as WhatsApp founder Jan Koum, philanthropist Gordon Getty and Lurie’s mother, Miriam “Mimi” Haas.&nbsp;

Daniel Lurie&#8217;s bid for mayor fueled by ultra-wealthy elites — including himself

Apart from the campaign committee, Lurie is backed by an independent expenditure committee that has raised $1.9 million this year — much of it from <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/01/daniel-lurie-campaign-finance-believe-in-sf/">ultra-wealthy donors</a>, such as WhatsApp founder Jan Koum, philanthropist Gordon Getty and Lurie’s mother, Miriam “Mimi” Haas.&nbsp;

On Thursday, Farrell and Lurie sparred on X over who is the better fundraiser.

On Thursday, Farrell and Lurie sparred on X over who is the better fundraiser.

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<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://twitter.com/DanielLurie/status/1819043584567607599
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">🤔 <a href="https://t.co/8fJ58XOMzm">https://t.co/8fJ58XOMzm</a> <a href="https://t.co/mUfa3sUywo">pic.twitter.com/mUfa3sUywo</a>&mdash; Daniel Lurie 丹尼爾·羅偉 (@DanielLurie) <a href="https://twitter.com/DanielLurie/status/1819043584567607599?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 1, 2024</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Breed has raised the most — and has a key endorsement&nbsp;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breed-has-raised-the-most-and-has-a-key-endorsement-nbsp">Breed has raised the most — and has a key endorsement&nbsp;</h2>

The incumbent is the queen of fundraising, though she has been campaigning for much longer than her opponents.&nbsp;

The incumbent is the queen of fundraising, though she has been campaigning for much longer than her opponents.&nbsp;

Breed has raised $961,211 since announcing her bid for reelection in December 2021. She has also received $743,100 in public financing.&nbsp;

Breed has raised $961,211 since announcing her bid for reelection in December 2021. She has also received $743,100 in public financing.&nbsp;

Her campaign reported 3,049 donors, 56% of them city residents, with an average donation of $265.

Her campaign reported 3,049 donors, 56% of them city residents, with an average donation of $265.

Breed carries a considerable advantage from a key endorsement,<a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/24/san-francisco-democratic-party-london-breed-endorsement/"> secured last week</a>, from the Democratic County Central Committee. That offers her an essentially free marketing campaign by the committee in the form of fliers and other materials blasted out to the city’s more than 300,000 registered Democrats.&nbsp;

London Breed nabs SF’s most prized political endorsement

Breed carries a considerable advantage from a key endorsement,<a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/24/san-francisco-democratic-party-london-breed-endorsement/"> secured last week</a>, from the Democratic County Central Committee. That offers her an essentially free marketing campaign by the committee in the form of fliers and other materials blasted out to the city’s more than 300,000 registered Democrats.&nbsp;

Additionally, an independent committee supporting Breed has brought in $585,000 this year. The biggest donor to that committee is <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/24/chris-larsen-ripple-crypto-san-francisco-mayor-breed/">crypto billionaire Chris Larsen</a>, who contributed $400,000.

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

Additionally, an independent committee supporting Breed has brought in $585,000 this year. The biggest donor to that committee is <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/24/chris-larsen-ripple-crypto-san-francisco-mayor-breed/">crypto billionaire Chris Larsen</a>, who contributed $400,000.

Mayoral candidate Daniel Lurie speaks during a mayoral debate to gain the Fire Union’s endorsement at the Local 798 Union Hall in San Francisco on Thursday, July 18, 2024. The Fire Union’s endorsement is highly coveted for mayoral candidates.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1667" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/20240718-firefighterdebate_jy_013.jpg?w=2500" alt="Four individuals stand behind clear podiums in a room with a yellow &quot;Fire Fighters&quot; sign and IAFF Local 798 logos, engaged in what appears to be a formal event or debate." class="wp-image-292393"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Millions of dollars are flowing into the race. On Thursday, campaigns released their latest fundraising figures.</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/20240718-firefighterdebate_jy_013.jpg?w=2500" alt="Four individuals stand behind clear podiums in a room with a yellow &quot;Fire Fighters&quot; sign and IAFF Local 798 logos, engaged in what appears to be a formal event or debate." class="wp-image-292393"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Millions of dollars are flowing into the race. On Thursday, campaigns released their latest fundraising figures.</figcaption></figure>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-peskin-s-campaign-is-grassroots-nbsp">Peskin’s campaign is grassroots&nbsp;</h2>

Board President Peskin, who has taken the progressive track among the mayoral challengers, has promised to avoid big-money interests. His campaign numbers reflect that stance.

Board President Peskin, who has taken the progressive track among the mayoral challengers, has promised to avoid big-money interests. His campaign numbers reflect that stance.

Since launching his election bid in April, Peskin has raised $469,262, with 76% coming from city residents. His average donation is lower than those of Farrell, Lurie and Breed: $247. Peskin has received $300,000 in public financing and has submitted for another $637,000, according to a campaign spokesperson.

Since launching his election bid in April, Peskin has raised $469,262, with 76% coming from city residents. His average donation is lower than those of Farrell, Lurie and Breed: $247. Peskin has received $300,000 in public financing and has submitted for another $637,000, according to a campaign spokesperson.

The other quasi-progressive challenger in the race is Supervisor Safaí, who launched his campaign last year. Safaí has brought in $491,832 so far. Public financing figures and the makeup of the donations were not immediately available.&nbsp;

The other quasi-progressive challenger in the race is Supervisor Safaí, who launched his campaign last year. Safaí has brought in $491,832 so far. Public financing figures and the makeup of the donations were not immediately available.&nbsp;

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

A joint investigation by the San Francisco City Attorney and Controller&#8217;s Offices has revealed that a nonprofit allegedly defrauded the city in a scheme that involved submitting false invoices, double billing and seeking reimbursements for items like alcohol, cigars and motorcycle rentals amounting to at least $100,000.

A joint investigation by the San Francisco City Attorney and Controller's Offices has revealed that a nonprofit allegedly defrauded the city in a scheme that involved submitting false invoices, double billing and seeking reimbursements for items like alcohol, cigars and motorcycle rentals amounting to at least $100,000.

A joint investigation by the San Francisco City Attorney and Controller&#8217;s Offices has revealed that a nonprofit allegedly defrauded the city in a scheme that involved submitting false invoices, double billing and seeking reimbursements for items like alcohol, cigars and motorcycle rentals amounting to at least $100,000.

The nonprofit J&amp;J Community Resource Center, which provides services for low-income families and youth and is overseen by Drew Jenkins, will be prevented from bidding on and receiving future grants from the city, according to City Attorney David Chiu. The city has also sanctioned the nonprofit&#8217;s Chief Financial Officer Susan Murphy.

The nonprofit J&amp;J Community Resource Center, which provides services for low-income families and youth and is overseen by Drew Jenkins, will be prevented from bidding on and receiving future grants from the city, according to City Attorney David Chiu. The city has also sanctioned the nonprofit's Chief Financial Officer Susan Murphy.

The nonprofit J&amp;J Community Resource Center, which provides services for low-income families and youth and is overseen by Drew Jenkins, will be prevented from bidding on and receiving future grants from the city, according to City Attorney David Chiu. The city has also sanctioned the nonprofit&#8217;s Chief Financial Officer Susan Murphy.

“Drew Jenkins carried out an egregious and intentional scheme to defraud the City and its taxpayers,” said Chiu in a statement on Tuesday morning. “Let this be a warning to all bad actors seeking to take advantage of our public resources. We will find out about your misdeeds, cut off your funding, and hold you accountable. I appreciate the partnership of the Controller’s Office on these matters, and the many City and nonprofit employees who spoke up about the wrongdoing they were seeing.”

“Drew Jenkins carried out an egregious and intentional scheme to defraud the City and its taxpayers,” said Chiu in a statement on Tuesday morning. “Let this be a warning to all bad actors seeking to take advantage of our public resources. We will find out about your misdeeds, cut off your funding, and hold you accountable. I appreciate the partnership of the Controller’s Office on these matters, and the many City and nonprofit employees who spoke up about the wrongdoing they were seeing.”

A receipt showing $3,335.35 worth of charges submitted by Drew Jenkins from Rolling Freedom's Motorcycles in Lake Tahoe.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/screenshot-2024-02-27-at-11-29-09-am.png?w=1220" alt="The image shows part of a reservation document for Rolling Freedom Motorcycles with pickup and dropoff dates, personal details, location info, and a total cost of $3,335.35." class="wp-image-253283"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A receipt showing $3,335.35 worth of charges submitted by Drew Jenkins from Rolling Freedom&#8217;s Motorcycles in Lake Tahoe.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/screenshot-2024-02-27-at-11-29-09-am.png?w=1220" alt="The image shows part of a reservation document for Rolling Freedom Motorcycles with pickup and dropoff dates, personal details, location info, and a total cost of $3,335.35." class="wp-image-253283"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A receipt showing $3,335.35 worth of charges submitted by Drew Jenkins from Rolling Freedom's Motorcycles in Lake Tahoe.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/screenshot-2024-02-27-at-11-29-09-am.png?w=1220" alt="The image shows part of a reservation document for Rolling Freedom Motorcycles with pickup and dropoff dates, personal details, location info, and a total cost of $3,335.35." class="wp-image-253283"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A receipt showing $3,335.35 worth of charges submitted by Drew Jenkins from Rolling Freedom&#8217;s Motorcycles in Lake Tahoe.</figcaption></figure>

Jenkins&#8217; nonprofit was established by him and his late mother in 2018, according to the city. Investigators say the scheme began in 2021 and that the organization received grants as either a sole grantee or subcontractor from four different departments: the Human Rights Commission, the Department of Public Health, the Mayor&#8217;s Office of Housing and Community Development and the Office of Economic Workforce Development.

Jenkins' nonprofit was established by him and his late mother in 2018, according to the city. Investigators say the scheme began in 2021 and that the organization received grants as either a sole grantee or subcontractor from four different departments: the Human Rights Commission, the Department of Public Health, the Mayor's Office of Housing and Community Development and the Office of Economic Workforce Development.

Jenkins&#8217; nonprofit was established by him and his late mother in 2018, according to the city. Investigators say the scheme began in 2021 and that the organization received grants as either a sole grantee or subcontractor from four different departments: the Human Rights Commission, the Department of Public Health, the Mayor&#8217;s Office of Housing and Community Development and the Office of Economic Workforce Development.

Attempts to reach Jenkins were not immediately successful.

Attempts to reach Jenkins were not immediately successful.

The investigation by the city reveals a web of alleged wrongdoing by Jenkins in his role as a former employee of Mercy Housing, a San Francisco-based affordable housing nonprofit, and Jenkins&#8217; colleague Murphy, who used to work at the nonprofit Family and Child Empowerment Services San Francisco (FACES SF), which provides access to child care.

The investigation by the city reveals a web of alleged wrongdoing by Jenkins in his role as a former employee of Mercy Housing, a San Francisco-based affordable housing nonprofit, and Jenkins' colleague Murphy, who used to work at the nonprofit Family and Child Empowerment Services San Francisco (FACES SF), which provides access to child care.

The investigation by the city reveals a web of alleged wrongdoing by Jenkins in his role as a former employee of Mercy Housing, a San Francisco-based affordable housing nonprofit, and Jenkins&#8217; colleague Murphy, who used to work at the nonprofit Family and Child Empowerment Services San Francisco (FACES SF), which provides access to child care.

In one instance, investigators say Jenkins submitted fake invoices to FACES SF under a Department of Public Health Covid grant, and Murphy subsequently approved them. The city attorney says Jenkins&#8217; organization unlawfully received $81,111 through the health department&#8217;s grant.

In one instance, investigators say Jenkins submitted fake invoices to FACES SF under a Department of Public Health Covid grant, and Murphy subsequently approved them. The city attorney says Jenkins' organization unlawfully received $81,111 through the health department's grant.

In one instance, investigators say Jenkins submitted fake invoices to FACES SF under a Department of Public Health Covid grant, and Murphy subsequently approved them. The city attorney says Jenkins&#8217; organization unlawfully received $81,111 through the health department&#8217;s grant.

In another case, Jenkins reportedly submitted reimbursement for expenses that were specifically excluded as part of a grant through the Human Rights Commission. Investigators say Jenkins sought to get paid back for a bottle of bourbon and cigars from an Atlanta liquor store during a college tour trip. The reimbursements also included motorcycle rentals in Lake Tahoe.

In another case, Jenkins reportedly submitted reimbursement for expenses that were specifically excluded as part of a grant through the Human Rights Commission. Investigators say Jenkins sought to get paid back for a bottle of bourbon and cigars from an Atlanta liquor store during a college tour trip. The reimbursements also included motorcycle rentals in Lake Tahoe.

Chiu&#8217;s action against the nonprofit is an official debarment, which permits the city to block organizations from applying for or receiving grants for five years under circumstances of &#8220;willful misconduct.&#8221; The city attorney has also submitted an order of suspension, which blocks the nonprofit from funding—an action that will be in place until the debarment is resolved.

Chiu's action against the nonprofit is an official debarment, which permits the city to block organizations from applying for or receiving grants for five years under circumstances of "willful misconduct." The city attorney has also submitted an order of suspension, which blocks the nonprofit from funding—an action that will be in place until the debarment is resolved.

Chiu&#8217;s action against the nonprofit is an official debarment, which permits the city to block organizations from applying for or receiving grants for five years under circumstances of &#8220;willful misconduct.&#8221; The city attorney has also submitted an order of suspension, which blocks the nonprofit from funding—an action that will be in place until the debarment is resolved.

“Contractors who willfully disregard regulations are a blight on public service and should not have the same opportunities as those who abide by the rules of fair conduct,” said&nbsp;City Controller Ben Rosenfield in a statement. “For every individual trying to rig the system, there are many more hardworking people doing good work—whose willingness to call out bad actors has been both invaluable, and an indication of government working.”

“Contractors who willfully disregard regulations are a blight on public service and should not have the same opportunities as those who abide by the rules of fair conduct,” said&nbsp;City Controller Ben Rosenfield in a statement. “For every individual trying to rig the system, there are many more hardworking people doing good work—whose willingness to call out bad actors has been both invaluable, and an indication of government working.”

The city&#8217;s actions on Tuesday follow a slew of scandals involving San Francisco nonprofits.

The city's actions on Tuesday follow a slew of scandals involving San Francisco nonprofits.

The city&#8217;s actions on Tuesday follow a slew of scandals involving San Francisco nonprofits.

On Friday, the San Francisco Police Department <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/23/san-francisco-police-cancel-sf-safe-nonprofit-contract/">informed the Board of Supervisors that it was canceling a grant for SF SAFE</a>, a nonprofit that recently closed and is under investigation by the District Attorney&#8217;s Office after it allegedly misspent $79,000 from the police department and up to $1 million from tech executive Chris Larsen.

San Francisco police cancel up to $5.4M contract with troubled nonprofit SF SAFE

On Friday, the San Francisco Police Department <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/23/san-francisco-police-cancel-sf-safe-nonprofit-contract/">informed the Board of Supervisors that it was canceling a grant for SF SAFE</a>, a nonprofit that recently closed and is under investigation by the District Attorney's Office after it allegedly misspent $79,000 from the police department and up to $1 million from tech executive Chris Larsen.

On Friday, the San Francisco Police Department <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/23/san-francisco-police-cancel-sf-safe-nonprofit-contract/">informed the Board of Supervisors that it was canceling a grant for SF SAFE</a>, a nonprofit that recently closed and is under investigation by the District Attorney&#8217;s Office after it allegedly misspent $79,000 from the police department and up to $1 million from tech executive Chris Larsen.

Cigars, booze and motorcycles: Nonprofit accused of swindling city in $100K scheme

George Kelly

The San Francisco Police Department is visiting four Texas university campuses through September as part of new recruiting efforts to find candidates outside of California.

The San Francisco Police Department is visiting four Texas university campuses through September as part of new recruiting efforts to find candidates outside of California.

For the first time, police officer candidates will be tested outside of California, with a written test, a physical ability test and an oral interview.

For the first time, police officer candidates will be tested outside of California, with a written test, a physical ability test and an oral interview.

A department spokesperson said the trips are meant to lower barriers to entry into the police department, speeding up the hiring process.

A department spokesperson said the trips are meant to lower barriers to entry into the police department, speeding up the hiring process.

The department is due to carry out one-day testing at the following Texas colleges starting Wednesday:

The department is due to carry out one-day testing at the following Texas colleges starting Wednesday:

<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Texas Southern University in Houston;&nbsp;</li>



<li>Sam Houston State University in Huntsville;&nbsp;</li>



<li>Prairie View A&amp;M University;&nbsp;and</li>



<li>Texas A&amp;M University Corpus Christi.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Texas Southern University in Houston;&nbsp;

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<li>Texas Southern University in Houston;&nbsp;</li>

Sam Houston State University in Huntsville;&nbsp;

<li>Sam Houston State University in Huntsville;&nbsp;</li>

Prairie View A&amp;M University;&nbsp;and

<li>Prairie View A&amp;M University;&nbsp;and</li>

Texas A&amp;M University Corpus Christi.&nbsp;

<li>Texas A&amp;M University Corpus Christi.&nbsp;</li>

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<ul><li>Texas Southern University in Houston;&nbsp;</li><li>Sam Houston State University in Huntsville;&nbsp;</li><li>Prairie View A&amp;M University;&nbsp;and</li><li>Texas A&amp;M University Corpus Christi.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://twitter.com/JoinSFPD/status/1699478824512299405
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">‼️🚨SFPD IS COMING TO TEXAS🚨‼️ Come join the San Francisco Police Department for ONE DAY TESTING! For any questions about this event please contact us by phone, email, or DM. Hope you can make it!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/sfpd?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#sfpd</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/joinsfpd?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#joinsfpd</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/police?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#police</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/sanfrancisco?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#sanfrancisco</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/sf?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#sf</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/california?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#california</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ca?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ca</a> <a href="https://t.co/2IbL0zJWsp">pic.twitter.com/2IbL0zJWsp</a>&mdash; SFPD Recruitment (@JoinSFPD) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoinSFPD/status/1699478824512299405?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 6, 2023</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Usually, recruiters visit state campuses five to 10 times a year, giving presentations and talks about the department and its hiring processes to interested students.&nbsp;

Usually, recruiters visit state campuses five to 10 times a year, giving presentations and talks about the department and its hiring processes to interested students.&nbsp;

A police spokesperson said that the estimated number of applicants this year is 2,104, nearly a 20% increase from 1,756 last year.&nbsp;

A police spokesperson said that the estimated number of applicants this year is 2,104, nearly a 20% increase from 1,756 last year.&nbsp;

Exact conversion rates from visiting out-of-state college campuses to hiring San Francisco police officers were not provided by the department.

Exact conversion rates from visiting out-of-state college campuses to hiring San Francisco police officers were not provided by the department.

San Francisco police recruits look on during a news conference at the San Francisco Police Academy on May 15, 2018 in San Francisco. 

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1698" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/SFPDAcademyRateDrop2-scaled.jpg?w=2500" alt="" class="wp-image-144166"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">San Francisco police recruits look on during a news conference at the San Francisco Police Academy on May 15, 2018. </figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/SFPDAcademyRateDrop2-scaled.jpg?w=2500" alt="" class="wp-image-144166"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">San Francisco police recruits look on during a news conference at the San Francisco Police Academy on May 15, 2018. </figcaption></figure>

The recruitment push comes as SFPD faces staffing issues, leading the department to pay out <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/03/09/sfpd-pay-millions-more-for-officers-to-work-fewer-hours-why/">millions in overtime</a> annually.&nbsp;

SFPD pays millions more for officers to work fewer hours—why?

The recruitment push comes as SFPD faces staffing issues, leading the department to pay out <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/03/09/sfpd-pay-millions-more-for-officers-to-work-fewer-hours-why/">millions in overtime</a> annually.&nbsp;

Between 2017 and 2022, the San Francisco Police Department spent $88.9 million more on its employees—despite its staff working fewer hours, according to employee pay data from the City Controller’s Office. The police department has attributed the reduced hours worked to a staff shortage.&nbsp;

Between 2017 and 2022, the San Francisco Police Department spent $88.9 million more on its employees—despite its staff working fewer hours, according to employee pay data from the City Controller’s Office. The police department has attributed the reduced hours worked to a staff shortage.&nbsp;

Tech titans have also called for more cops, with Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/13/marc-benioff-every-day-dreamforce-2023-tech-san-francisco/">urging the city to hire more police officers</a> during the Dreamforce 2023 conference. Benioff has threatened to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/14/dreamforce-last-time-san-francisco-tech-community-wonders-benioff/">take the conference out of San Francisco</a> if the city doesn’t address its homelessness and drug crises.

Dreamforce 2023: Marc Benioff tells San Francisco to enforce laws, hire cops

Is Salesforce actually pulling its annual conference from San Francisco?

Tech titans have also called for more cops, with Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/13/marc-benioff-every-day-dreamforce-2023-tech-san-francisco/">urging the city to hire more police officers</a> during the Dreamforce 2023 conference. Benioff has threatened to <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/14/dreamforce-last-time-san-francisco-tech-community-wonders-benioff/">take the conference out of San Francisco</a> if the city doesn’t address its homelessness and drug crises.

In March, crypto tech boss Chris Larsen <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/04/01/crypto-tech-boss-sinks-600k-into-sfpd-recruitment-ads-amid-staffing-crisis/">spent $600,000 on a televised</a> ad campaign to attract more recruits. The police department was not involved in the campaign.

Crypto tech boss sinks $600K into SFPD recruitment ads amid staffing crisis

In March, crypto tech boss Chris Larsen <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/04/01/crypto-tech-boss-sinks-600k-into-sfpd-recruitment-ads-amid-staffing-crisis/">spent $600,000 on a televised</a> ad campaign to attract more recruits. The police department was not involved in the campaign.

San Francisco needs hundreds of cops. Why is it hunting for recruits in Texas?

Joe Fitzgerald Rodriguez

The pressure is on Mayor London Breed as she contemplates her final act in office.

The pressure is on Mayor London Breed as she contemplates her final act in office.

For more than a week, community organizers, political insiders, and allies of Mayor-elect Daniel Lurie have been on tenterhooks, waiting to learn Breed&#8217;s pick to replace newly elected Assemblymember Catherine Stefani as District 2 supervisor — a coveted seat that launched the career of Gov. Gavin Newsom.

For more than a week, community organizers, political insiders, and allies of Mayor-elect Daniel Lurie have been on tenterhooks, waiting to learn Breed's pick to replace newly elected Assemblymember Catherine Stefani as District 2 supervisor — a coveted seat that launched the career of Gov. Gavin Newsom.

For more than a week, community organizers, political insiders, and allies of Mayor-elect Daniel Lurie have been on tenterhooks, waiting to learn Breed&#8217;s pick to replace newly elected Assemblymember Catherine Stefani as District 2 supervisor — a coveted seat that launched the career of Gov. Gavin Newsom.

Per insider scuttlebutt, it’s been a difficult — perhaps agonizing — decision.

Per insider scuttlebutt, it’s been a difficult — perhaps agonizing — decision.

The appointment of a supervisor to represent District 2, which includes the Marina District, Pacific Heights, and Cow Hollow, will reverberate far beyond those neighborhoods. The appointee may cast a crucial vote for Board of Supervisors president in January, determining which lawmakers successfully navigate San Francisco’s choppy budget waters and which founder.

The appointment of a supervisor to represent District 2, which includes the Marina District, Pacific Heights, and Cow Hollow, will reverberate far beyond those neighborhoods. The appointee may cast a crucial vote for Board of Supervisors president in January, determining which lawmakers successfully navigate San Francisco’s choppy budget waters and which founder.

And there is the matter of Breed’s legacy.

And there is the matter of Breed’s legacy.

For all of her accomplishments — including weathering the pandemic — this final political move could be the most revealing of her character, observers say. Since she will soon be out of office, the decision comes nearly free of political strings. The choice is wholly her own.

For all of her accomplishments — including weathering the pandemic — this final political move could be the most revealing of her character, observers say. Since she will soon be out of office, the decision comes nearly free of political strings. The choice is wholly her own.

Names rumored to be under consideration have circulated for months. They include Breed’s manager of state and federal affairs, Eileen Mariano, granddaughter of the late Sen. Dianne Feinstein; former Supervisor Michela Alioto-Pier; former aide <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/11/22/mayor-breed-may-lob-a-political-grenade-into-city-hall-on-her-way-out/">Conor Johnston</a>; campaign manager Eric Kingsbury; Stephen Sherrill, director of the Mayor’s Office of Innovation; and Recreation and Parks Commission President Kat Anderson.

Mayor Breed may lob a political grenade into City Hall on her way out

Names rumored to be under consideration have circulated for months. They include Breed’s manager of state and federal affairs, Eileen Mariano, granddaughter of the late Sen. Dianne Feinstein; former Supervisor Michela Alioto-Pier; former aide <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/11/22/mayor-breed-may-lob-a-political-grenade-into-city-hall-on-her-way-out/">Conor Johnston</a>; campaign manager Eric Kingsbury; Stephen Sherrill, director of the Mayor’s Office of Innovation; and Recreation and Parks Commission President Kat Anderson.

Those close to Breed say she has drifted between picks. But over the last week and a half her focus has narrowed to Sherrill and Johnston, some say.

Those close to Breed say she has drifted between picks. But over the last week and a half her focus has narrowed to Sherrill and Johnston, some say.

Sherrill has longstanding ties to ex-New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who was one of Breed’s biggest campaign boosters. Johnston was Breed’s chief of staff from her time as District 5 supervisor. He’s an infamous political trickster, known as much for his biting wit as for incendiary posts on his now-shuttered X account.

Sherrill has longstanding ties to ex-New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who was one of Breed’s biggest campaign boosters. Johnston was Breed’s chief of staff from her time as District 5 supervisor. He’s an infamous political trickster, known as much for his biting wit as for incendiary posts on his now-shuttered X account.

Even though no one is talking publicly, the jockeying is out there for anyone to see. Sherrill and Mariano have been spotted glad-handing their way through at least two District 2 community events. Sherrill is said to be attending a contentious community meeting on parking meters Thursday — one likely to be stacked with neighborhood groups he’d need to court as supervisor.

Even though no one is talking publicly, the jockeying is out there for anyone to see. Sherrill and Mariano have been spotted glad-handing their way through at least two District 2 community events. Sherrill is said to be attending a contentious community meeting on parking meters Thursday — one likely to be stacked with neighborhood groups he’d need to court as supervisor.

Breed’s interview process has been thorough: She dispatched billionaire Ripple CEO Chris Larsen to chat with at least two of the candidates, perhaps a strange task for a private-sector bigwig with no government experience. And we know she asked at least some of the candidates whom they would vote for as Board of Supervisors president, and if they would be champions for urbanist issues, like market-rate housing production and transportation. The last two are particularly important to her, insiders told The Standard.

Breed’s interview process has been thorough: She dispatched billionaire Ripple CEO Chris Larsen to chat with at least two of the candidates, perhaps a strange task for a private-sector bigwig with no government experience. And we know she asked at least some of the candidates whom they would vote for as Board of Supervisors president, and if they would be champions for urbanist issues, like market-rate housing production and transportation. The last two are particularly important to her, insiders told The Standard.

Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi is said to have placed her thumb on the scales, calling Breed about the District 2 appointment. While observers aren’t certain whom Pelosi was stumping for, it would make sense for it to be Mariano, given the congresswoman’s long alliance with Feinstein.

Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi is said to have placed her thumb on the scales, calling Breed about the District 2 appointment. While observers aren’t certain whom Pelosi was stumping for, it would make sense for it to be Mariano, given the congresswoman’s long alliance with Feinstein.

Breed’s top two choices have placed her in a bind.

Breed’s top two choices have placed her in a bind.

On one hand, Breed views Johnston as the candidate with the most City Hall know-how. Johnston handled hundreds, if not thousands, of calls and emails from irate residents while serving in Breed’s Board of Supervisors office. He wrote citywide legislation for years and knows City Hall intimately. And the Board of Supervisors has new, green members, making an experienced appointee that much more valuable.

On one hand, Breed views Johnston as the candidate with the most City Hall know-how. Johnston handled hundreds, if not thousands, of calls and emails from irate residents while serving in Breed’s Board of Supervisors office. He wrote citywide legislation for years and knows City Hall intimately. And the Board of Supervisors has new, green members, making an experienced appointee that much more valuable.

But should Breed select Johnston, it would be seen as lobbing a grenade into the mayor’s office on her way out the door. Her opponents have cast the appointment of Johnston as a way to needle Lurie, saddling him with a political opponent known more for haranguing Breed’s opponents <a href="https://engardio.com/blog/2019/9/2/the-man-who-bites-alligators-for-the-mayor">while wearing a hippo costume</a> than for legislative know-how.

But should Breed select Johnston, it would be seen as lobbing a grenade into the mayor’s office on her way out the door. Her opponents have cast the appointment of Johnston as a way to needle Lurie, saddling him with a political opponent known more for haranguing Breed’s opponents <a href="https://engardio.com/blog/2019/9/2/the-man-who-bites-alligators-for-the-mayor">while wearing a hippo costume</a> than for legislative know-how.

Sherrill has baggage of his own. A New York City native and Yale University graduate, he’s the son of a Republican power donor and private-equity boss who made a mint on gunmaker Remington Arms. After working as a White House intern during the George W. Bush administration, Sherrill embraced more liberal politics amid Barack Obama’s 2008 presidential run. His parents even held a fundraiser for Breed’s reelection bid in the spring. However, some locals are unimpressed with Sherrill’s résumé. Patricia Vaughey, president of the Marina-Cow Hollow Neighbors &amp; Merchants Association, told The Standard Sherrill is a nonentity.

Sherrill has baggage of his own. A New York City native and Yale University graduate, he’s the son of a Republican power donor and private-equity boss who made a mint on gunmaker Remington Arms. After working as a White House intern during the George W. Bush administration, Sherrill embraced more liberal politics amid Barack Obama’s 2008 presidential run. His parents even held a fundraiser for Breed’s reelection bid in the spring. However, some locals are unimpressed with Sherrill’s résumé. Patricia Vaughey, president of the Marina-Cow Hollow Neighbors &amp; Merchants Association, told The Standard Sherrill is a nonentity.

“I’ve been to around 25 meetings in the last year. I haven’t seen this man at one,” Vaughey said.

“I’ve been to around 25 meetings in the last year. I haven’t seen this man at one,” Vaughey said.

After years of stating “no party preference,” Sherrill registered as a Democrat in 2023, according to the Department of Elections.

After years of stating “no party preference,” Sherrill registered as a Democrat in 2023, according to the Department of Elections.

And there is the matter of Sherrill’s former boss, Bloomberg, for whom he served as a senior policy advisor. (Bloomberg’s charity funds the San Francisco Mayor’s Office of Innovation, which Sherrill leads.) The billionaire ex-mayor donated a hefty $1.4 million to campaign committees backing Breed.

And there is the matter of Sherrill’s former boss, Bloomberg, for whom he served as a senior policy advisor. (Bloomberg’s charity funds the San Francisco Mayor’s Office of Innovation, which Sherrill leads.) The billionaire ex-mayor donated a hefty $1.4 million to campaign committees backing Breed.

Should she pick Sherrill, Breed could be accused of awarding a political appointment as a favor to Bloomberg.

Should she pick Sherrill, Breed could be accused of awarding a political appointment as a favor to Bloomberg.

If there’s any evidence of her indecision, it’s in the ever-shifting timeline of the pick.

If there’s any evidence of her indecision, it’s in the ever-shifting timeline of the pick.

People around the mayor believed an announcement was coming Dec. 3. More than a week later, the sound of crickets has reached near-deafening levels.

People around the mayor believed an announcement was coming Dec. 3. More than a week later, the sound of crickets has reached near-deafening levels.

Mystery, suspicion as Breed ponders her final big decision

Kevin Truong

San Francisco has spent tens of millions since the pandemic on programs aimed at reviving the hollowed-out downtown core. Now, amid a budget crisis, funding for those initiatives is on the chopping block. At risk are city grants for storefront beautification, small-business support, and entertainment meant to draw visitors downtown.

San Francisco has spent tens of millions since the pandemic on programs aimed at reviving the hollowed-out downtown core. Now, amid a budget crisis, funding for those initiatives is on the chopping block. At risk are city grants for storefront beautification, small-business support, and entertainment meant to draw visitors downtown.

To offset the cuts, Mayor Daniel Lurie is looking outside of government to the wealthy individuals who make up his Rolodex to take on a role traditionally filled by the city. While those likely to be affected&nbsp; by the cuts say they understand that difficult choices are necessary to balance the budget, they express worry about entrusting such an important mission to individuals with little or no experience working with the city’s bureaucracy and have doubts as to whether such handouts can be a long-term solution.

To offset the cuts, Mayor Daniel Lurie is looking outside of government to the wealthy individuals who make up his Rolodex to take on a role traditionally filled by the city. While those likely to be affected&nbsp; by the cuts say they understand that difficult choices are necessary to balance the budget, they express worry about entrusting such an important mission to individuals with little or no experience working with the city’s bureaucracy and have doubts as to whether such handouts can be a long-term solution.

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