Michael Barba

The District Attorney&#8217;s Office confirmed for the first time Friday that it is criminally investigating <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/25/san-francisco-safe-nonprofit-kyra-worthy-for-richmond/">the troubled nonprofit San Francisco SAFE</a>, which collapsed last week under questions of financial mismanagement.

Before SF SAFE hired Kyra Worthy, misspending questions dogged her East Bay nonprofit

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The District Attorney's Office confirmed for the first time Friday that it is criminally investigating <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/25/san-francisco-safe-nonprofit-kyra-worthy-for-richmond/">the troubled nonprofit San Francisco SAFE</a>, which collapsed last week under questions of financial mismanagement.

The District Attorney&#8217;s Office confirmed for the first time Friday that it is criminally investigating <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/25/san-francisco-safe-nonprofit-kyra-worthy-for-richmond/">the troubled nonprofit San Francisco SAFE</a>, which collapsed last week under questions of financial mismanagement.

Matthew McCarthy, chief of the White Collar Crime Division at the office, took the unusual step of confirming the active criminal investigation in letters to both the Board of Supervisors and the Police Commission.

Matthew McCarthy, chief of the White Collar Crime Division at the office, took the unusual step of confirming the active criminal investigation in letters to both the Board of Supervisors and the Police Commission.

&#8220;We are currently conducting an investigation of potential criminal wrongdoing in connection with SF SAFE&#8217;s finances,&#8221; McCarthy wrote.

"We are currently conducting an investigation of potential criminal wrongdoing in connection with SF SAFE's finances," McCarthy wrote.

&#8220;We are currently conducting an investigation of potential criminal wrongdoing in connection with SF SAFE&#8217;s finances,&#8221; McCarthy wrote.

McCarthy wrote the letters to ask both of the bodies to delay hearings they had scheduled later this month to examine the issues at SF SAFE. He argued that the hearings could potentially compromise the ongoing criminal investigation into the nonprofit.

McCarthy wrote the letters to ask both of the bodies to delay hearings they had scheduled later this month to examine the issues at SF SAFE. He argued that the hearings could potentially compromise the ongoing criminal investigation into the nonprofit.

The news comes after SF SAFE, the longtime nonprofit partner of the San Francisco Police Department, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/24/san-francisco-nonprofit-sf-safe-kyra-worthy-fired/">fired its executive director</a>, Kyra Worthy, last Wednesday and temporarily ceased operations over possible misspending.

Troubled San Francisco nonprofit SF SAFE fires director, reports possible check forgery to police

The news comes after SF SAFE, the longtime nonprofit partner of the San Francisco Police Department, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/24/san-francisco-nonprofit-sf-safe-kyra-worthy-fired/">fired its executive director</a>, Kyra Worthy, last Wednesday and temporarily ceased operations over possible misspending.

The problems at SF SAFE first emerged when the Controller&#8217;s Office released a scathing report Jan. 18, finding that SFPD reimbursed the nonprofit for at least $79,000 in improper expenses, including <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/18/san-francisco-police-wrongly-paid-nonprofit-79k-for-lavish-expenses-report-finds/">luxury gift boxes and a Lake Tahoe trip</a>. The report also found that SFPD did not have supporting documentation from SF SAFE for $3.8 million of the $5.3 million that it reimbursed the nonprofit for expenses between July 2018 and March 2023.

Limo rides, a Tahoe trip and luxury gifts: San Francisco police wrongly paid for it all

The problems at SF SAFE first emerged when the Controller's Office released a scathing report Jan. 18, finding that SFPD reimbursed the nonprofit for at least $79,000 in improper expenses, including <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/18/san-francisco-police-wrongly-paid-nonprofit-79k-for-lavish-expenses-report-finds/">luxury gift boxes and a Lake Tahoe trip</a>. The report also found that SFPD did not have supporting documentation from SF SAFE for $3.8 million of the $5.3 million that it reimbursed the nonprofit for expenses between July 2018 and March 2023.

The problems at SF SAFE first emerged when the Controller&#8217;s Office released a scathing report Jan. 18, finding that SFPD reimbursed the nonprofit for at least $79,000 in improper expenses, including <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/18/san-francisco-police-wrongly-paid-nonprofit-79k-for-lavish-expenses-report-finds/">luxury gift boxes and a Lake Tahoe trip</a>. The report also found that SFPD did not have supporting documentation from SF SAFE for $3.8 million of the $5.3 million that it reimbursed the nonprofit for expenses between July 2018 and March 2023.

Days later, The Standard learned that crypto billionaire Chris Larsen had <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/23/san-francisco-safe-nonprofit-chris-larsen-grant-funding/">called for an investigation</a> into how as much as $1 million of the $1.8 million he gave the nonprofit to expand the use of security cameras in the city was spent.

Crypto boss who gave $1.8M to San Francisco crime nonprofit wants audit of &#8216;discrepancies&#8217;

Days later, The Standard learned that crypto billionaire Chris Larsen had <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/23/san-francisco-safe-nonprofit-chris-larsen-grant-funding/">called for an investigation</a> into how as much as $1 million of the $1.8 million he gave the nonprofit to expand the use of security cameras in the city was spent.

The nonprofit is also facing allegations that it stiffed vendors for at least $1.2 million worth of work, including for installing and maintaining security cameras, and that it left its longtime partner, the Castro Community on Patrol, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/31/san-francisco-safe-castro-community-on-patrol-missing-funds/">saddled with $11,000 in debts it could not pay</a> when SF SAFE abruptly cut ties with the group in November.

Funds for Castro patrol go missing at embattled nonprofit SF SAFE, group says

The nonprofit is also facing allegations that it stiffed vendors for at least $1.2 million worth of work, including for installing and maintaining security cameras, and that it left its longtime partner, the Castro Community on Patrol, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/31/san-francisco-safe-castro-community-on-patrol-missing-funds/">saddled with $11,000 in debts it could not pay</a> when SF SAFE abruptly cut ties with the group in November.

Worthy did not respond to a request for comment Friday.

Worthy did not respond to a request for comment Friday.

She was hired by the nonprofit&#8217;s board of directors in 2018 despite leading another nonprofit in the East Bay that faced questions about its spending.

She was hired by the nonprofit's board of directors in 2018 despite leading another nonprofit in the East Bay that faced questions about its spending.

She was hired by the nonprofit&#8217;s board of directors in 2018 despite leading another nonprofit in the East Bay that faced questions about its spending.

In 2017, the West Contra Costa Unified School District demanded that her prior nonprofit, For Richmond, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/25/san-francisco-safe-nonprofit-kyra-worthy-for-richmond/">repay nearly $235,000 in funding</a> to the district after an investigation found the nonprofit had filed false invoices and failed to complete services that it was paid for under contracts benefiting Black students.

In 2017, the West Contra Costa Unified School District demanded that her prior nonprofit, For Richmond, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/25/san-francisco-safe-nonprofit-kyra-worthy-for-richmond/">repay nearly $235,000 in funding</a> to the district after an investigation found the nonprofit had filed false invoices and failed to complete services that it was paid for under contracts benefiting Black students.

Supervisor Aaron Peskin, who called for the hearing at the Board of Supervisors, said he would consult with the City Attorney&#8217;s Office about whether to postpone the hearing, while noting that the District Attorney&#8217;s Office &#8220;is not authorized to issue legal counsel to the Board of Supervisors or anyone else.&#8221;

Supervisor Aaron Peskin, who called for the hearing at the Board of Supervisors, said he would consult with the City Attorney's Office about whether to postpone the hearing, while noting that the District Attorney's Office "is not authorized to issue legal counsel to the Board of Supervisors or anyone else."

Supervisor Aaron Peskin, who called for the hearing at the Board of Supervisors, said he would consult with the City Attorney&#8217;s Office about whether to postpone the hearing, while noting that the District Attorney&#8217;s Office &#8220;is not authorized to issue legal counsel to the Board of Supervisors or anyone else.&#8221;

&#8220;Of course public hearings (or civil cases for that matter) can proceed during a criminal investigation,&#8221; Peskin said in a text message.

"Of course public hearings (or civil cases for that matter) can proceed during a criminal investigation," Peskin said in a text message.

&#8220;Of course public hearings (or civil cases for that matter) can proceed during a criminal investigation,&#8221; Peskin said in a text message.

He also questioned whether District Attorney Brooke Jenkins would &#8220;investigate her own office&#8217;s potential involvement.&#8221;

He also questioned whether District Attorney Brooke Jenkins would "investigate her own office's potential involvement."

He also questioned whether District Attorney Brooke Jenkins would &#8220;investigate her own office&#8217;s potential involvement.&#8221;

&#8220;I think she should consider asking the State Attorney General to take this case,&#8221; Peskin said.

"I think she should consider asking the State Attorney General to take this case," Peskin said.

&#8220;I think she should consider asking the State Attorney General to take this case,&#8221; Peskin said.

Among those Peskin asked to speak about <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/18/san-francisco-police-wrongly-paid-nonprofit-79k-for-lavish-expenses-report-finds/">the Controller&#8217;s Office report</a> are the controller, SFPD and the SF SAFE board of directors. The hearing is currently set to take place on Feb. 15.

Among those Peskin asked to speak about <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/18/san-francisco-police-wrongly-paid-nonprofit-79k-for-lavish-expenses-report-finds/">the Controller's Office report</a> are the controller, SFPD and the SF SAFE board of directors. The hearing is currently set to take place on Feb. 15.

Among those Peskin asked to speak about <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/18/san-francisco-police-wrongly-paid-nonprofit-79k-for-lavish-expenses-report-finds/">the Controller&#8217;s Office report</a> are the controller, SFPD and the SF SAFE board of directors. The hearing is currently set to take place on Feb. 15.

Police Commission Vice President Max Carter-Oberstone, who called for the other hearing scheduled for Wednesday, said he believed his hearing should go forward, but that the decision was ultimately up to Police Commission President Cindy Elias.

Police Commission Vice President Max Carter-Oberstone, who called for the other hearing scheduled for Wednesday, said he believed his hearing should go forward, but that the decision was ultimately up to Police Commission President Cindy Elias.

&#8220;There is nothing stopping us from holding a public hearing on an issue just because that issue also happens to separately be the subject of a criminal investigation,&#8221; Carter-Oberstone said.

"There is nothing stopping us from holding a public hearing on an issue just because that issue also happens to separately be the subject of a criminal investigation," Carter-Oberstone said.

&#8220;There is nothing stopping us from holding a public hearing on an issue just because that issue also happens to separately be the subject of a criminal investigation,&#8221; Carter-Oberstone said.

Representatives for the Controller&#8217;s Office and SFPD who speak at the hearing could decline to answer questions as necessary, he said.

Representatives for the Controller's Office and SFPD who speak at the hearing could decline to answer questions as necessary, he said.

Representatives for the Controller&#8217;s Office and SFPD who speak at the hearing could decline to answer questions as necessary, he said.

Elias did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Elias did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

DA confirms criminal probe into troubled nonprofit SF SAFE

Gabe Greschler

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1667" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/peskin-13.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man makes an announcement behind a podium." class="wp-image-265546"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Board President Aaron Peskin speaks during his campaign kickoff last month.</figcaption></figure>

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1667" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/img_1705.jpg?w=2500" alt="A group of people holding protest signs, one reads &quot;SAFETY IS A HUMAN RIGHT&quot;." class="wp-image-261771"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Former Supervisor Mark Farrell, center, and nonprofit leader Daniel Lurie, up from the right, have both raised considerable sums in their campaigns for mayor.</figcaption></figure>

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Annie Gaus

What could have been a dreary mid-August convention became a red-hot ticket as San Francisco officials converge in Chicago for what promises to be a historic — and festive — Democratic National Convention.

What could have been a dreary mid-August convention became a red-hot ticket as San Francisco officials converge in Chicago for what promises to be a historic — and festive — Democratic National Convention.

Scores of local politicians, delegates, Democratic party officials, donors and consultants are in the Windy City for a blowout week of brunches, parties, speeches, caucus meetings and rallies in support of Vice President <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/11/kamala-harris-meets-donors-at-sanfrancisco-fairmont-hotel-fundraiser/">Kamala Harris’ bid for the presidency</a>. The festivities will culminate in a Thursday night speech with Harris, who started her political career as San Francisco district attorney, officially accepting the Democratic nomination for president.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kamala Harris courts donors at sold-out SF event where tickets went for up to $500K a pop

Scores of local politicians, delegates, Democratic party officials, donors and consultants are in the Windy City for a blowout week of brunches, parties, speeches, caucus meetings and rallies in support of Vice President <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/11/kamala-harris-meets-donors-at-sanfrancisco-fairmont-hotel-fundraiser/">Kamala Harris’ bid for the presidency</a>. The festivities will culminate in a Thursday night speech with Harris, who started her political career as San Francisco district attorney, officially accepting the Democratic nomination for president.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Like so many delegates, I was worried about what would be happening in the convention and anxious about the state of affairs before Biden passed the torch,” said City Attorney David Chiu, who’s attending the convention as a delegate. “But it has fired up our activists and leaders in ways none of us ever expected. I think [the convention] is both going to be an incredible celebration and a rededication to the fight.”

“Like so many delegates, I was worried about what would be happening in the convention and anxious about the state of affairs before Biden passed the torch,” said City Attorney David Chiu, who’s attending the convention as a delegate. “But it has fired up our activists and leaders in ways none of us ever expected. I think [the convention] is both going to be an incredible celebration and a rededication to the fight.”

Chiu is one of many San Francisans who have known Harris personally since her early days in San Francisco. Other local officials at the convention include Mayor London Breed, San Francisco Democratic Party Chair Nancy Tung and members of the Democratic County Central Committee.&nbsp;

Chiu is one of many San Francisans who have known Harris personally since her early days in San Francisco. Other local officials at the convention include Mayor London Breed, San Francisco Democratic Party Chair Nancy Tung and members of the Democratic County Central Committee.&nbsp;

The Standard will be on the ground in Chicago as Democrats strategize and celebrate with Harris as the party’s official nominee for president.&nbsp;

The Standard will be on the ground in Chicago as Democrats strategize and celebrate with Harris as the party’s official nominee for president.&nbsp;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-party-central">Party central</h2>

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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-party-central">Party central</h2>

Many attendees will be burning the candle at both ends, with breakfasts, happy hours, dinners and late-night ragers scheduled throughout the week. The convention itself runs from Monday through Thursday.

Many attendees will be burning the candle at both ends, with breakfasts, happy hours, dinners and late-night ragers scheduled throughout the week. The convention itself runs from Monday through Thursday.

“I heard you don’t sleep — thank goodness we’re on Pacific Time,” joked Lily Ho, an elected member of the San Francisco Democratic County Central Committee. There are well over 100 convention-related events in Chicago next week, according to a list <a href="https://docsend.com/view/7wwfqhksc7quvhkk">posted online</a>.

“I heard you don’t sleep — thank goodness we’re on Pacific Time,” joked Lily Ho, an elected member of the San Francisco Democratic County Central Committee. There are well over 100 convention-related events in Chicago next week, according to a list <a href="https://docsend.com/view/7wwfqhksc7quvhkk">posted online</a>.

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

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On Tuesday, Ripple Chairman <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/24/chris-larsen-ripple-crypto-san-francisco-mayor-breed/">Chris Larsen</a> — a major political and philanthropic donor and supporter of Breed — is hosting a party at a swanky steakhouse in Chicago’s River North neighborhood. San Francisco Democratic activists and other VIPs are expected to pack the evening soiree, which will feature Breed and a “surprise musical guest.”&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Ripple Chairman <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/24/chris-larsen-ripple-crypto-san-francisco-mayor-breed/">Chris Larsen</a> — a major political and philanthropic donor and supporter of Breed — is hosting a party at a swanky steakhouse in Chicago’s River North neighborhood. San Francisco Democratic activists and other VIPs are expected to pack the evening soiree, which will feature Breed and a “surprise musical guest.”&nbsp;

On Wednesday, the California Democratic Party is throwing a late-night bash at Chicago’s famed House of Blues. Tickets have sold out for what is expected to be a rollicking good time for the California Democratic Party leaders and delegates pledging their support to Harris. Other big-ticket events include a John Legend performance hosted by Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, the California Democratic Party is throwing a late-night bash at Chicago’s famed House of Blues. Tickets have sold out for what is expected to be a rollicking good time for the California Democratic Party leaders and delegates pledging their support to Harris. Other big-ticket events include a John Legend performance hosted by Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker.&nbsp;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-democrats-in-array">Democrats in array?</h2>

Chiu, who leads a <a href="https://senatepress.net/aapi-lead-first-national-membership-organization-for-aapi-elected-and-appointed-officials-launched.html">national organization</a> of Asian American officials, will help conduct roll call at an AAPI caucus meeting during the convention — one of dozens of breakout meetings during the event’s daytime hours. Breed is expected to speak at a delegation breakfast Thursday.&nbsp;

Chiu, who leads a <a href="https://senatepress.net/aapi-lead-first-national-membership-organization-for-aapi-elected-and-appointed-officials-launched.html">national organization</a> of Asian American officials, will help conduct roll call at an AAPI caucus meeting during the convention — one of dozens of breakout meetings during the event’s daytime hours. Breed is expected to speak at a delegation breakfast Thursday.&nbsp;

San Francisco Mayor London Breed, left, holds the hand of Senator Kamala Harris, right, at the Curran in San Francisco, on Saturday, January 12, 2019. 

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="2183" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/BreedPhotoGallery_10-scaled.jpg?w=2500" alt="Two women are smiling and holding hands. One wears a red blazer with a black blouse and pants, and the other wears a dark gray suit with a black top and a pearl necklace." class="wp-image-171792"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayor London Breed is among the local officials who have known Harris since her early years in San Francisco. </figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/BreedPhotoGallery_10-scaled.jpg?w=2500" alt="Two women are smiling and holding hands. One wears a red blazer with a black blouse and pants, and the other wears a dark gray suit with a black top and a pearl necklace." class="wp-image-171792"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayor London Breed is among the local officials who have known Harris since her early years in San Francisco. </figcaption></figure>

“We all know that presidential elections aren’t won at a convention; it’s the hard work and blood, sweat and tears of activists throughout the party, particularly in swing states,” Chiu said. “In the AAPI community, we’re talking about how folks around the country, who have money and language skills and volunteer time, can help impact the work in the battleground states. That’s what a lot of the focus is going to be on and how California can be relevant.”

“We all know that presidential elections aren’t won at a convention; it’s the hard work and blood, sweat and tears of activists throughout the party, particularly in swing states,” Chiu said. “In the AAPI community, we’re talking about how folks around the country, who have money and language skills and volunteer time, can help impact the work in the battleground states. That’s what a lot of the focus is going to be on and how California can be relevant.”

Luis Zamora, a delegate and candidate for City College Board of Trustees, said he’s keen to build ties with fellow union members and Democrats from across the country. Honey Mahogany, a former San Francisco Democratic Party chair who’s attending as a delegate, said she’s hoping to connect with “folks outside of the SF Bay Area bubble, especially those from more purple states and even red states.”

Luis Zamora, a delegate and candidate for City College Board of Trustees, said he’s keen to build ties with fellow union members and Democrats from across the country. Honey Mahogany, a former San Francisco Democratic Party chair who’s attending as a delegate, said she’s hoping to connect with “folks outside of the SF Bay Area bubble, especially those from more purple states and even red states.”

“I’m also looking forward to connecting with other trans people while I’m here to discuss what’s happening across the country and how to beat back the right wing’s weird preoccupation with our community,” Mahogany said.&nbsp;

“I’m also looking forward to connecting with other trans people while I’m here to discuss what’s happening across the country and how to beat back the right wing’s weird preoccupation with our community,” Mahogany said.&nbsp;

Marjan Philhour, an elected San Francisco Democratic Party member and candidate for Board of Supervisors, called the convention “historic” and connected it to the fight to preserve reproductive rights, democracy and other values San Franciscans hold dear.

Marjan Philhour, an elected San Francisco Democratic Party member and candidate for Board of Supervisors, called the convention “historic” and connected it to the fight to preserve reproductive rights, democracy and other values San Franciscans hold dear.

“We all know there is something special about San Francisco, and come November, the rest of the country will too,” Philhour said. 

“We all know there is something special about San Francisco, and come November, the rest of the country will too,” Philhour said.

For all the fanfare, disruptions are possible both inside and outside the convention.&nbsp;

For all the fanfare, disruptions are possible both inside and outside the convention.&nbsp;

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/democratic-national-convention-chicago-protests-5741113478d2ca454d6d6d7a6e7bd50f">Large demonstrations are expected</a> near the United Center, where main convention activities are taking place. Inside the convention, discord over the Biden administration’s handling of the war in Gaza could play into the proceedings. Out of some 4,600 delegates, there are around <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2024/08/15/uncommitted-voters-want-role-convention/">30 “uncommitted” delegates</a> who have sought to use their leverage for policy changes around the conflict.&nbsp;

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/democratic-national-convention-chicago-protests-5741113478d2ca454d6d6d7a6e7bd50f">Large demonstrations are expected</a> near the United Center, where main convention activities are taking place. Inside the convention, discord over the Biden administration’s handling of the war in Gaza could play into the proceedings. Out of some 4,600 delegates, there are around <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2024/08/15/uncommitted-voters-want-role-convention/">30 “uncommitted” delegates</a> who have sought to use their leverage for policy changes around the conflict.&nbsp;

However, the historic nature of Harris’ nomination, and the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/05/kamala-harris-joe-biden-presidential-candidate/">dramatic circumstances</a> that preceded it, have lent an unusual sense of unity to this year’s convention, said Sam Lauter, a longtime Democratic strategist and former staffer to Biden when he was a U.S. senator.&nbsp;

As Biden enters do-or-die weekend, San Francisco considers the Kamala Harris question

However, the historic nature of Harris’ nomination, and the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/05/kamala-harris-joe-biden-presidential-candidate/">dramatic circumstances</a> that preceded it, have lent an unusual sense of unity to this year’s convention, said Sam Lauter, a longtime Democratic strategist and former staffer to Biden when he was a U.S. senator.&nbsp;

After Biden’s dismal debate performance in June set off a wave of panic inside the Democratic Party, top leaders and rank-and-file Democrats were stricken with anxiety over Biden’s chances against Donald Trump. As Harris consolidated support, San Francisco Democrats rapidly <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/23/kamala-harris-president-san-francisco-campaign-donors/">mobilized behind her candidacy</a>.&nbsp;

Kamala World: The Bay Area elites powering Harris’ campaign for president

After Biden’s dismal debate performance in June set off a wave of panic inside the Democratic Party, top leaders and rank-and-file Democrats were stricken with anxiety over Biden’s chances against Donald Trump. As Harris consolidated support, San Francisco Democrats rapidly <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/23/kamala-harris-president-san-francisco-campaign-donors/">mobilized behind her candidacy</a>.&nbsp;

“Given the state of who our party is running against, I think there’s a unity behind the vice president that’s kind of rare for the Democrats,” Lauter said. “I think people are genuinely excited about a very good, capable, smart person, an attractive candidate who got there in an incredibly unusual way but kind of an exciting way. So I think that’s what we’re seeing.”&nbsp;

“Given the state of who our party is running against, I think there’s a unity behind the vice president that’s kind of rare for the Democrats,” Lauter said. “I think people are genuinely excited about a very good, capable, smart person, an attractive candidate who got there in an incredibly unusual way but kind of an exciting way. So I think that’s what we’re seeing.”&nbsp;

Party central: SF Democrats storm Chicago for historic DNC

Rachel Scheier

From blues clubs in Bayview Hunters-Point to the dim sum joints of Clement Street, San Francisco’s small merchants are getting $2 million in grants to “help fight the city’s retail challenges.”&nbsp;

From blues clubs in Bayview Hunters-Point to the dim sum joints of Clement Street, San Francisco’s small merchants are getting $2 million in grants to “help fight the city’s retail challenges.”&nbsp;

The grants to 50 neighborhood and small business groups across the city come from tech billionaire Chris Larsen, who two years ago gave $1.7 million in pandemic recovery aid to neighborhood groups through his nonprofit, Avenue Greenlight.&nbsp;

The grants to 50 neighborhood and small business groups across the city come from tech billionaire Chris Larsen, who two years ago gave $1.7 million in pandemic recovery aid to neighborhood groups through his nonprofit, Avenue Greenlight.&nbsp;

The money aims to boost neighborhood businesses that have struggled to stay afloat since 2020 as remote work and petty crime have triggered a string of retail shutdowns. While conditions have improved in the city since the first two years of the pandemic, when more businesses closed than opened, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/sf-businesses-are-coming-back-to-life-at-least-in-some-neighborhoods/">some areas</a> are <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/downtown-san-francisco-is-dead-heres-the-plan-to-save-it/">still hurting</a>, <a href="http://www.bayareaeconomy.org/bay-watch-business-openings-and-closures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">particularly Downtown</a>.&nbsp;

The money aims to boost neighborhood businesses that have struggled to stay afloat since 2020 as remote work and petty crime have triggered a string of retail shutdowns. While conditions have improved in the city since the first two years of the pandemic, when more businesses closed than opened, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/sf-businesses-are-coming-back-to-life-at-least-in-some-neighborhoods/">some areas</a> are <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/downtown-san-francisco-is-dead-heres-the-plan-to-save-it/">still hurting</a>, <a href="http://www.bayareaeconomy.org/bay-watch-business-openings-and-closures/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">particularly Downtown</a>.&nbsp;

Larsen, a San Francisco native, said he believes that giving to local groups is the most efficient way to help the city recover.

Larsen, a San Francisco native, said he believes that giving to local groups is the most efficient way to help the city recover.

“This is an incredibly diverse city—and these groups know their neighborhoods and what they need, and they can make a buck go a long way,” Larsen said.&nbsp;

“This is an incredibly diverse city—and these groups know their neighborhoods and what they need, and they can make a buck go a long way,” Larsen said.&nbsp;

The Pride Flag flies over Castro Street Fair attendees. | Camille Cohen/The Standard

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/CastroStreetFair-07-square.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-151452"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Pride Flag flies over Castro Street Fair attendees. | Camille Cohen/The Standard</figcaption></figure>

Some of the money will seek to beautify Downtown blocks that have been hit particularly hard by dwindling foot traffic and mounting concerns about car break-ins and open-air drug sales. A group of residents and local businesses called the Friends of Jessie Street plans to install streetlights on a dead-end alley in SoMa, and similar improvements are planned to improve safety for commuters, operagoers, tourists and residents around Jackson Square on Grove Street near the Civic Center.&nbsp;

Some of the money will seek to beautify Downtown blocks that have been hit particularly hard by dwindling foot traffic and mounting concerns about car break-ins and open-air drug sales. A group of residents and local businesses called the Friends of Jessie Street plans to install streetlights on a dead-end alley in SoMa, and similar improvements are planned to improve safety for commuters, operagoers, tourists and residents around Jackson Square on Grove Street near the Civic Center.&nbsp;

The grants ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 will also go to fund community events such as outdoor movie nights in Bernal Heights, art walks in the Castro, the Chinese New Year Flower Fair and car-free Halloween trick-or-treating along the Great Highway.&nbsp;

The grants ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 will also go to fund community events such as outdoor movie nights in Bernal Heights, art walks in the Castro, the Chinese New Year Flower Fair and car-free Halloween trick-or-treating along the Great Highway.&nbsp;

Larsen, who lives with his family in Russian Hill, is the co-founder of the payments firm Ripple as well as E-Loan, the first online mortgage lender. He founded Avenue Greenlight in 2021 to support local businesses hurting during the pandemic. Mom-and-pop shops that saw their customers evaporate overnight after the shutdown also had to cope with rampant vandalism and petty theft.&nbsp;

Larsen, who lives with his family in Russian Hill, is the co-founder of the payments firm Ripple as well as E-Loan, the first online mortgage lender. He founded Avenue Greenlight in 2021 to support local businesses hurting during the pandemic. Mom-and-pop shops that saw their customers evaporate overnight after the shutdown also had to cope with rampant vandalism and petty theft.&nbsp;

Avenue Greenlight gave San Francisco’s 34 merchant associations $50,000 each to improve public safety, beautify streets and finance events like concerts and block parties. A group in the Castro District used the money to replace the neighborhood’s iconic rainbow flag, while another grant paid for a new crab sign in Fisherman’s Wharf.&nbsp;

Avenue Greenlight gave San Francisco’s 34 merchant associations $50,000 each to improve public safety, beautify streets and finance events like concerts and block parties. A group in the Castro District used the money to replace the neighborhood’s iconic rainbow flag, while another grant paid for a new crab sign in Fisherman’s Wharf.&nbsp;

Larsen hopes the latest round of grants will push other members of the city’s business and tech community to fund neighborhood concerns.&nbsp;

Larsen hopes the latest round of grants will push other members of the city’s business and tech community to fund neighborhood concerns.&nbsp;

“We’re trying to get the message out there that this really works,” he said.&nbsp;

“We’re trying to get the message out there that this really works,” he said.&nbsp;

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