Adam Lashinsky

The last time there was a political earthquake of the magnitude we just witnessed within San Francisco’s City Hall, Daniel Lurie was an 18-year-old recent graduate of University High School. That was way back in 1995, when Willie Brown beat the incumbent Mayor Frank Jordan, ushering in a bold new regime to run the city. The next three elected mayors — Gavin Newsom, Ed Lee, and London Breed — were all appointees or protégés of Brown, effectively representing an uninterrupted run of Willie’s World.&nbsp;

core/paragraph

The last time there was a political earthquake of the magnitude we just witnessed within San Francisco’s City Hall, Daniel Lurie was an 18-year-old recent graduate of University High School. That was way back in 1995, when Willie Brown beat the incumbent Mayor Frank Jordan, ushering in a bold new regime to run the city. The next three elected mayors — Gavin Newsom, Ed Lee, and London Breed — were all appointees or protégés of Brown, effectively representing an uninterrupted run of Willie’s World.&nbsp;

This nearly 30-year political epoch has left the so-called City Family unprepared for the election of Lurie, who ran explicitly against several of its own. Most current department heads and staffers have neither the playbook nor muscle memory of how to function outside of the patronage army that Brown built.&nbsp;

This nearly 30-year political epoch has left the so-called City Family unprepared for the election of Lurie, who ran explicitly against several of its own. Most current department heads and staffers have neither the playbook nor muscle memory of how to function outside of the patronage army that Brown built.&nbsp;

To put it another way: This is the first administration in a generation that owes Brown and the rest of San Francisco’s political firmament precisely nothing. (A while back, I heard that when Lurie asked Brown for campaign advice, the wily politician dismissively responded that the philanthropist should “get a job.”)

To put it another way: This is the first administration in a generation that owes Brown and the rest of San Francisco’s political firmament precisely nothing. (A while back, I heard that when Lurie asked Brown for campaign advice, the wily politician dismissively responded that the philanthropist should “get a job.”)

“City Hall insiders,” as Lurie repeatedly derided them during his campaign, have no idea what to expect. Will the new mayor clean house and install his own loyalists in place of longtime officeholders? Will he swing a sledgehammer at city government’s byways, taking down anyone who stands in his way? Lurie spoke repeatedly of City Hall’s dysfunction during the campaign, and his <a href="https://daniellurie.com/sc/thank-you-letter-sc/">victory letter</a> cites “shaking up the corrupt and ineffective bureaucracy&#8221; as one of his top priorities.

“City Hall insiders,” as Lurie repeatedly derided them during his campaign, have no idea what to expect. Will the new mayor clean house and install his own loyalists in place of longtime officeholders? Will he swing a sledgehammer at city government’s byways, taking down anyone who stands in his way? Lurie spoke repeatedly of City Hall’s dysfunction during the campaign, and his <a href="https://daniellurie.com/sc/thank-you-letter-sc/">victory letter</a> cites “shaking up the corrupt and ineffective bureaucracy" as one of his top priorities.

“City Hall insiders,” as Lurie repeatedly derided them during his campaign, have no idea what to expect. Will the new mayor clean house and install his own loyalists in place of longtime officeholders? Will he swing a sledgehammer at city government’s byways, taking down anyone who stands in his way? Lurie spoke repeatedly of City Hall’s dysfunction during the campaign, and his <a href="https://daniellurie.com/sc/thank-you-letter-sc/">victory letter</a> cites “shaking up the corrupt and ineffective bureaucracy&#8221; as one of his top priorities.

Lurie&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/DanielLurie/status/1858561058241474677?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1858561058241474677%7Ctwgr%5Ed6f3e8d8b9d051056cfd5ad522696aa28b945c6b%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fsfstandard.com%2F2024%2F11%2F18%2Fsam-altman-tapped-for-luries-transition-team%2F" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">named his transition team Monday</a>, a group that includes OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, and a handful of politicos. But as he thinks about the kind of leader he plans to be, he’d be wise to consider the obvious and laudable example of another iconoclastic big-city mayor: Michael Bloomberg.&nbsp;

Lurie&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/DanielLurie/status/1858561058241474677?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1858561058241474677%7Ctwgr%5Ed6f3e8d8b9d051056cfd5ad522696aa28b945c6b%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fsfstandard.com%2F2024%2F11%2F18%2Fsam-altman-tapped-for-luries-transition-team%2F" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">named his transition team Monday</a>, a group that includes OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, and a handful of politicos. But as he thinks about the kind of leader he plans to be, he’d be wise to consider the obvious and laudable example of another iconoclastic big-city mayor: Michael Bloomberg.&nbsp;

When the financial information executive took office in New York City in the months after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, he too was a rich guy who had never been elected to anything. Like Lurie, he had begun his campaign far down in the polls and was widely expected to lose to a veteran politician, Public Advocate Mark Green.&nbsp;

When the financial information executive took office in New York City in the months after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, he too was a rich guy who had never been elected to anything. Like Lurie, he had begun his campaign far down in the polls and was widely expected to lose to a veteran politician, Public Advocate Mark Green.&nbsp;

And like Lurie, Bloomberg enjoyed the political flexibility that comes from having financed his own campaign. Though he won the <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2001/10/28/nyregion/in-homestretch-of-campaign-mayor-endorses-bloomberg.html">last-minute endorsement</a> of Rudy Giuliani, then highly respected as “America’s mayor,” few of New York&#8217;s power players endorsed Bloomberg.

And like Lurie, Bloomberg enjoyed the political flexibility that comes from having financed his own campaign. Though he won the <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2001/10/28/nyregion/in-homestretch-of-campaign-mayor-endorses-bloomberg.html">last-minute endorsement</a> of Rudy Giuliani, then highly respected as “America’s mayor,” few of New York's power players endorsed Bloomberg.

And like Lurie, Bloomberg enjoyed the political flexibility that comes from having financed his own campaign. Though he won the <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2001/10/28/nyregion/in-homestretch-of-campaign-mayor-endorses-bloomberg.html">last-minute endorsement</a> of Rudy Giuliani, then highly respected as “America’s mayor,” few of New York&#8217;s power players endorsed Bloomberg.

That’s true for Lurie, too. In fact, Bloomberg himself didn’t back Lurie’s run for mayor; instead, he gave $1.2 million to the Breed campaign.

That’s true for Lurie, too. In fact, Bloomberg himself didn’t back Lurie’s run for mayor; instead, he gave $1.2 million to the Breed campaign.

Mayoral Candidate Daniel Lurie walks with Lily Lo, president of BeChinatown, as they visit merchants while Lurie campaigns in Chinatown in San Francisco on Friday, January, 2024. Lurie, the founder of anti-poverty nonprofit Tipping Point and an heir to the Levi Strauss fortune, is one of the most prominent challengers to Mayor London Breed in this year’s election.

<figure class="wp-block-image alignwide size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/20240130-asianvotemayorrace-222.jpg?w=1852" alt="A man in a white shirt crosses a busy city street, turning his head to the side. Buildings, people walking, and cars are visible in the background." class="wp-image-331538"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Like Michael Bloomberg once did in New York, Daniel Lurie will enter office with the political flexibility that comes from having financed his own campaign. </figcaption></figure>

core/image

<figure class="wp-block-image alignwide size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/20240130-asianvotemayorrace-222.jpg?w=1852" alt="A man in a white shirt crosses a busy city street, turning his head to the side. Buildings, people walking, and cars are visible in the background." class="wp-image-331538"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Like Michael Bloomberg once did in New York, Daniel Lurie will enter office with the political flexibility that comes from having financed his own campaign. </figcaption></figure>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-no-allegiance-to-anybody">‘No allegiance to anybody’</h2>

core/heading

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-no-allegiance-to-anybody">‘No allegiance to anybody’</h2>

In the 2000s, Bloomberg’s financial independence gave him a free hand to assemble a team in his own image, regardless of whose backs they had scratched before. “He had no allegiance to anybody,” recalled Dan Doctoroff, a powerful deputy mayor for economic development under Bloomberg, who came into government with little political but plenty of private-sector experience.&nbsp;

In the 2000s, Bloomberg’s financial independence gave him a free hand to assemble a team in his own image, regardless of whose backs they had scratched before. “He had no allegiance to anybody,” recalled Dan Doctoroff, a powerful deputy mayor for economic development under Bloomberg, who came into government with little political but plenty of private-sector experience.&nbsp;

A seasoned investment banker, Doctoroff had led a failed effort to bring the Olympic Games to New York, which he retooled into a grand redevelopment plan for the city. When Bloomberg won, Doctoroff was reluctant to sign on. “I turned him down twice,” he told me via Zoom last week. “Eventually I met with Mike, and he convinced me I could do everything I wanted to do more effectively inside City Hall.”

A seasoned investment banker, Doctoroff had led a failed effort to bring the Olympic Games to New York, which he retooled into a grand redevelopment plan for the city. When Bloomberg won, Doctoroff was reluctant to sign on. “I turned him down twice,” he told me via Zoom last week. “Eventually I met with Mike, and he convinced me I could do everything I wanted to do more effectively inside City Hall.”

In the wake of Lurie’s election victory, I spoke to former Bloomberg administration officials who said the mogul–mayor&#8217;s independence more than compensated for his inexperience. “Not owing anybody anything is a huge benefit if you play things right,” one told me.

In the wake of Lurie’s election victory, I spoke to former Bloomberg administration officials who said the mogul–mayor's independence more than compensated for his inexperience. “Not owing anybody anything is a huge benefit if you play things right,” one told me.

In the wake of Lurie’s election victory, I spoke to former Bloomberg administration officials who said the mogul–mayor&#8217;s independence more than compensated for his inexperience. “Not owing anybody anything is a huge benefit if you play things right,” one told me.

Peter Madonia, Bloomberg’s first chief of staff, said the mayor was liberated by not needing to repay campaign favors. “He was quite clear to me,” Madonia remembered of his boss. “He said, ‘Go find the best and the brightest.&#8217;”&nbsp;

Peter Madonia, Bloomberg’s first chief of staff, said the mayor was liberated by not needing to repay campaign favors. “He was quite clear to me,” Madonia remembered of his boss. “He said, ‘Go find the best and the brightest.'”&nbsp;

Peter Madonia, Bloomberg’s first chief of staff, said the mayor was liberated by not needing to repay campaign favors. “He was quite clear to me,” Madonia remembered of his boss. “He said, ‘Go find the best and the brightest.&#8217;”&nbsp;

Bloomberg famously recruited businesspeople in his own mold, including Doctoroff and Andrew Alper, a former Goldman Sachs partner he tapped to run the New York City Economic Development Corporation. But he named — and retained — plenty of seasoned hands, too. “Mike understood he needed people who had government experience at a high level,” said Madonia, himself a former official in the administration of Mayor Ed Koch.&nbsp;

Bloomberg famously recruited businesspeople in his own mold, including Doctoroff and Andrew Alper, a former Goldman Sachs partner he tapped to run the New York City Economic Development Corporation. But he named — and retained — plenty of seasoned hands, too. “Mike understood he needed people who had government experience at a high level,” said Madonia, himself a former official in the administration of Mayor Ed Koch.&nbsp;

Among the city officials Bloomberg retained were the heads of the prison, taxi regulation, and transportation agencies. His first deputy mayor for operations, a key post in New York, had held multiple city jobs before going to work for Bloomberg.

Among the city officials Bloomberg retained were the heads of the prison, taxi regulation, and transportation agencies. His first deputy mayor for operations, a key post in New York, had held multiple city jobs before going to work for Bloomberg.

The new mayor went out of his way to praise municipal employees, even knowing a multibillion-dollar budget deficit would require painful cuts. (<a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/11/07/daniel-lurie-wins-san-francisco-mayor/">Sound familiar?</a>) “He expressed tremendous respect for city workers,” said Ed Skyler, initially Bloomberg’s press secretary and later a deputy mayor for operations. “He went to union leaders and said, ‘I’m going to work with your members to make the city better.’”&nbsp;

Congrats, Daniel Lurie. Your new job is going to suck

The new mayor went out of his way to praise municipal employees, even knowing a multibillion-dollar budget deficit would require painful cuts. (<a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/11/07/daniel-lurie-wins-san-francisco-mayor/">Sound familiar?</a>) “He expressed tremendous respect for city workers,” said Ed Skyler, initially Bloomberg’s press secretary and later a deputy mayor for operations. “He went to union leaders and said, ‘I’m going to work with your members to make the city better.’”&nbsp;

Bloomberg was clear on his vision for the city, which featured some of the same priorities Lurie has today, including boosting public safety and building affordable housing. The New York mayor was equally clear about a few quirkier initiatives, including a ban on smoking in public spaces.&nbsp;

Bloomberg was clear on his vision for the city, which featured some of the same priorities Lurie has today, including boosting public safety and building affordable housing. The New York mayor was equally clear about a few quirkier initiatives, including a ban on smoking in public spaces.&nbsp;

Madonia said he pushed back on Bloomberg over the smoking ban, given the more pressing matters the city faced. “I said, ‘What the fuck do you want to do that for? We’ve got to lay off sanitation workers and correction officers and close firehouses.’ But he was resolute about it, and to his credit, he was right. It became a global success.”

Madonia said he pushed back on Bloomberg over the smoking ban, given the more pressing matters the city faced. “I said, ‘What the fuck do you want to do that for? We’ve got to lay off sanitation workers and correction officers and close firehouses.’ But he was resolute about it, and to his credit, he was right. It became a global success.”

COLORADO SPRINGS, CO - NOVEMBER 2:  Dan Doctoroff, District Mayor of Economic Development, Jay Kriegel, Executive Director for NYC 2012, and New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg talk before the United States Olympic Committee announced who would represent The U.S. in a bid to host the 2012 Summer Olympic games November 2, 2002 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. New York City won out over San Francisco and now moves on to the international competition. The International Olympic Committee will decide who will host the Olympic games in 2005.  (Photo by Tom Cooper/Getty Images)

<figure class="wp-block-image alignwide size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/gettyimages-1584368.jpg?w=2500" alt="Three men in suits are seated at a table, one whispering to another, while the third listens intently. Papers and a glass of ice water are on the table." class="wp-image-333420"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Dan Doctoroff, left, was one of the experienced outsiders brought into New York City&#8217;s government by Mayor Michael Bloomberg, right.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image alignwide size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/gettyimages-1584368.jpg?w=2500" alt="Three men in suits are seated at a table, one whispering to another, while the third listens intently. Papers and a glass of ice water are on the table." class="wp-image-333420"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Dan Doctoroff, left, was one of the experienced outsiders brought into New York City's government by Mayor Michael Bloomberg, right.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image alignwide size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/gettyimages-1584368.jpg?w=2500" alt="Three men in suits are seated at a table, one whispering to another, while the third listens intently. Papers and a glass of ice water are on the table." class="wp-image-333420"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Dan Doctoroff, left, was one of the experienced outsiders brought into New York City&#8217;s government by Mayor Michael Bloomberg, right.</figcaption></figure>

For all the similarities, there also are considerable differences between the two upstart mayors and their cities. By the time he became mayor, Bloomberg was a self-made billionaire and exceedingly capable CEO, with a reputation for leading deftly while delegating broadly. In the words of one admirer, “Mike is in a league of one.”&nbsp;

For all the similarities, there also are considerable differences between the two upstart mayors and their cities. By the time he became mayor, Bloomberg was a self-made billionaire and exceedingly capable CEO, with a reputation for leading deftly while delegating broadly. In the words of one admirer, “Mike is in a league of one.”&nbsp;

Lurie, by comparison, has far less operating experience than Bloomberg. His management highlights include running a 50-person non-profit and serving as the chair of the Super Bowl host committee. (Fun fact: Lurie modeled the nonprofit he founded, Tipping Point, on the organization where he worked in New York, Robin Hood, during the first years of the Bloomberg administration.)&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lurie, by comparison, has far less operating experience than Bloomberg. His management highlights include running a 50-person non-profit and serving as the chair of the Super Bowl host committee. (Fun fact: Lurie modeled the nonprofit he founded, Tipping Point, on the organization where he worked in New York, Robin Hood, during the first years of the Bloomberg administration.)&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lurie-s-disadvantage">Lurie&#8217;s disadvantage</h2>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lurie-s-disadvantage">Lurie's disadvantage</h2>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lurie-s-disadvantage">Lurie&#8217;s disadvantage</h2>

Bloomberg had another significant advantage over his San Francisco counterpart. New York&#8217;s mayoral system is so centralized that nearly every powerful player in the city government reported directly to him. This meant Bloomberg&#8217;s lieutenants kept a firm hand on city affairs.

Bloomberg had another significant advantage over his San Francisco counterpart. New York's mayoral system is so centralized that nearly every powerful player in the city government reported directly to him. This meant Bloomberg's lieutenants kept a firm hand on city affairs.

Bloomberg had another significant advantage over his San Francisco counterpart. New York&#8217;s mayoral system is so centralized that nearly every powerful player in the city government reported directly to him. This meant Bloomberg&#8217;s lieutenants kept a firm hand on city affairs.

“I drove the agencies to cooperate and collaborate,” said Doctoroff, who has studied San Francisco’s governance and notes. “We had a lot more power.” (Doctoroff pointed out that at least one member of Lurie’s transition team, Sara Fenske Bahat, worked for him in New York.)&nbsp;

“I drove the agencies to cooperate and collaborate,” said Doctoroff, who has studied San Francisco’s governance and notes. “We had a lot more power.” (Doctoroff pointed out that at least one member of Lurie’s transition team, Sara Fenske Bahat, worked for him in New York.)&nbsp;

Though San Franciscans debate the strength of the mayor’s office, it’s a fact that the city government’s reporting structure is byzantine, with many departments operating as independent fiefdoms with long-tenured heads. Some department chiefs can be hired or fired by powerful commissions, while other top officials report to the city administrator.

Though San Franciscans debate the strength of the mayor’s office, it’s a fact that the city government’s reporting structure is byzantine, with many departments operating as independent fiefdoms with long-tenured heads. Some department chiefs can be hired or fired by powerful commissions, while other top officials report to the city administrator.

As an example of how complicated things will be for Lurie: City Administrator Carmen Chu, who is three years into a five-year term that ends in February 2026, oversees 25 departments, divisions, and programs. Should Lurie want his own person in the post, he could remove Chu, but only with the approval of the Board of Supervisors. &nbsp;

As an example of how complicated things will be for Lurie: City Administrator Carmen Chu, who is three years into a five-year term that ends in February 2026, oversees 25 departments, divisions, and programs. Should Lurie want his own person in the post, he could remove Chu, but only with the approval of the Board of Supervisors. &nbsp;

Most City Hall prognosticators I spoke to believe Lurie will be able to put in place the people he wants, though perhaps not as quickly as he’d like. They expect the mayor-elect to look to the types of high-powered businesspeople who populated the <a href="https://tippingpoint.org/our-people-values/board-of-directors/">board of Tipping Point</a>. This in itself would constitute a major change — San Francisco has little tradition of well-off corporate titans joining city government for relatively paltry salaries.&nbsp;

Most City Hall prognosticators I spoke to believe Lurie will be able to put in place the people he wants, though perhaps not as quickly as he’d like. They expect the mayor-elect to look to the types of high-powered businesspeople who populated the <a href="https://tippingpoint.org/our-people-values/board-of-directors/">board of Tipping Point</a>. This in itself would constitute a major change — San Francisco has little tradition of well-off corporate titans joining city government for relatively paltry salaries.&nbsp;

Word is that Lurie is casting a wide net. Ironically, he could be assisted by the return of Donald Trump, which has meant there are oodles of talented Democrats, in California and nationally, who may be interested in a job. Until Nov. 6, these players were packing their bags for Washington to serve in a presumed Kamala Harris administration. Now they are considering their options.&nbsp;

Word is that Lurie is casting a wide net. Ironically, he could be assisted by the return of Donald Trump, which has meant there are oodles of talented Democrats, in California and nationally, who may be interested in a job. Until Nov. 6, these players were packing their bags for Washington to serve in a presumed Kamala Harris administration. Now they are considering their options.&nbsp;

As for those currently in top City Hall roles, they are bracing for impact. Last week, each city department submitted a memo for the new mayor detailing its operations and priorities. One wag in City Hall told me these documents will function as preliminary job interviews for department heads hoping to stay on.&nbsp;

As for those currently in top City Hall roles, they are bracing for impact. Last week, each city department submitted a memo for the new mayor detailing its operations and priorities. One wag in City Hall told me these documents will function as preliminary job interviews for department heads hoping to stay on.&nbsp;

Given the many congruences between the Lurie and Bloomberg stories, the question City Hall insiders will be asking in the coming weeks is to what extent Daniel can be like Mike. Will he make nice with the old guard while integrating some of the new? Or will he clean house and make way for an all-new City Family?&nbsp;

Given the many congruences between the Lurie and Bloomberg stories, the question City Hall insiders will be asking in the coming weeks is to what extent Daniel can be like Mike. Will he make nice with the old guard while integrating some of the new? Or will he clean house and make way for an all-new City Family?&nbsp;

The bureaucrats of San Francisco uneasily await the answer.

The bureaucrats of San Francisco uneasily await the answer.

Could Daniel Lurie be SF’s Michael Bloomberg?

Opinion: Could Daniel Lurie be SF’s Michael Bloomberg?

Han Li

Rafael Mandelman was elected Wednesday by his colleagues as president of the Board of Supervisors, one of San Francisco’s most powerful roles, with influence over the budget and legislative changes.

Rafael Mandelman was elected Wednesday by his colleagues as president of the Board of Supervisors, one of San Francisco’s most powerful roles, with influence over the budget and legislative changes.

The unanimous vote ended weeks of speculation over who would be the next president. Supervisor Myrna Melgar previously expressed interest in the position but chose not to run.

The unanimous vote ended weeks of speculation over who would be the next president. Supervisor Myrna Melgar previously expressed interest in the position but chose not to run.

“I feel good. I&#8217;ll take it,” Mandelman told The Standard after the vote. “I&#8217;m happy to have my colleagues&#8217; support. We got a lot of work to do, and it&#8217;s nice to have the whole board coming together.”

“I feel good. I'll take it,” Mandelman told The Standard after the vote. “I'm happy to have my colleagues' support. We got a lot of work to do, and it's nice to have the whole board coming together.”

“I feel good. I&#8217;ll take it,” Mandelman told The Standard after the vote. “I&#8217;m happy to have my colleagues&#8217; support. We got a lot of work to do, and it&#8217;s nice to have the whole board coming together.”

The Board of Supervisors, the legislative branch of city government, has 11 members elected from districts across San Francisco. The current board has five new members and is considered slightly more politically moderate than the last one. Working with Mayor Daniel Lurie, who was inaugurated Wednesday, the officials are tasked with resolving a roughly $876 million budget deficit in the coming months.

The Board of Supervisors, the legislative branch of city government, has 11 members elected from districts across San Francisco. The current board has five new members and is considered slightly more politically moderate than the last one. Working with Mayor Daniel Lurie, who was inaugurated Wednesday, the officials are tasked with resolving a roughly $876 million budget deficit in the coming months.

In first address as mayor, Lurie promises safer, shinier city

sf-standard/related-post

Today is the day: London Breed is out. Daniel Lurie is in

sf-standard/related-posts-container

Mandelman will serve as president for two years. He promised to play a more cooperative role with the new mayor, saying Lurie&#8217;s success is San Francisco&#8217;s success.

Mandelman will serve as president for two years. He promised to play a more cooperative role with the new mayor, saying Lurie's success is San Francisco's success.

Mandelman will serve as president for two years. He promised to play a more cooperative role with the new mayor, saying Lurie&#8217;s success is San Francisco&#8217;s success.

“I think everybody wants to work with Daniel Lurie,&#8221; he said. &#8220;Everyone wants Daniel Lurie to be successful.&#8221;

“I think everybody wants to work with Daniel Lurie," he said. "Everyone wants Daniel Lurie to be successful."

“I think everybody wants to work with Daniel Lurie,&#8221; he said. &#8220;Everyone wants Daniel Lurie to be successful.&#8221;

After the vote, Lurie showed up at the board meeting to congratulate Mandelman and set a friendly tone.

After the vote, Lurie showed up at the board meeting to congratulate Mandelman and set a friendly tone.

&#8220;We are not going to agree on everything, we know this, and that&#8217;s OK,&#8221; Lurie said. &#8220;I want to commit to you, as your mayor, working alongside the board president, that we are going to have honest, open, and transparent conversations.&#8221;

"We are not going to agree on everything, we know this, and that's OK," Lurie said. "I want to commit to you, as your mayor, working alongside the board president, that we are going to have honest, open, and transparent conversations."

&#8220;We are not going to agree on everything, we know this, and that&#8217;s OK,&#8221; Lurie said. &#8220;I want to commit to you, as your mayor, working alongside the board president, that we are going to have honest, open, and transparent conversations.&#8221;

District 8 Supervisor Rafael Mandelman, left, sits alongside Mayor Daniel Lurie after he was selected as President of the Board of Supervisors at City Hall in San Francisco on Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2025. Following the inauguration of Mayor Daniel Lurie, the Board of Supervisors convened to choose a new president and selected District 8 Supervisor Rafael Mandelman, a decision that will shape the direction and leadership.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/supervisors-fighting-for-presidency-a-black-horse-wins_aar_8.jpg?w=2500" alt="Several people are seated at a large, ornate desk in a formal setting, with two men in suits engaged in conversation. American and California flags are visible." class="wp-image-352574"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mandelman, left, talks to Mayor Daniel Lurie after he was selected as president of the Board of Supervisors.</figcaption></figure>

The board presidency comes with outsize influence in the lawmaking process, such as the ability to fast-track or slow down proposals. The president also controls committee assignments, setting the stage for key policy debates in the coming year.&nbsp;

The board presidency comes with outsize influence in the lawmaking process, such as the ability to fast-track or slow down proposals. The president also controls committee assignments, setting the stage for key policy debates in the coming year.&nbsp;

Mandelman, who was elected in 2018 to represent the Castro, is the longest-serving supervisor on the board. An attorney, he previously served on the City College Board of Trustees.

Mandelman, who was elected in 2018 to represent the Castro, is the longest-serving supervisor on the board. An attorney, he previously served on the City College Board of Trustees.

Before Wednesday&#8217;s vote, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/12/18/stephen-sherrill-san-francisco-board-of-supervisors-london-breed/">Stephen Sherrill</a>, Jackie Fielder, Danny Sauter, Bilal Mahmood, and Chyanne Chen were sworn in as supervisors.

Breed picks Stephen Sherrill, ex-Bloomberg staffer, for coveted board seat

Before Wednesday's vote, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/12/18/stephen-sherrill-san-francisco-board-of-supervisors-london-breed/">Stephen Sherrill</a>, Jackie Fielder, Danny Sauter, Bilal Mahmood, and Chyanne Chen were sworn in as supervisors.

Before Wednesday&#8217;s vote, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/12/18/stephen-sherrill-san-francisco-board-of-supervisors-london-breed/">Stephen Sherrill</a>, Jackie Fielder, Danny Sauter, Bilal Mahmood, and Chyanne Chen were sworn in as supervisors.

Rafael Mandelman is the new Board of Supervisors president

Gabe Greschler

Newly inaugurated Mayor Daniel Lurie said Thursday he wants to freeze city hiring and new programs — though there are major exemptions and scant details on exactly what departments will be affected.&nbsp;

Newly inaugurated Mayor Daniel Lurie said Thursday he wants to freeze city hiring and new programs — though there are major exemptions and scant details on exactly what departments will be affected.&nbsp;

In light of <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/12/03/san-francisco-budget-deficit-trump-funding-deportations/">a historic budget deficit</a> reaching nearly $900 million, Lurie said the city would pause hiring for new positions, except those that are “historically challenging to staff and that directly support public safety and health.”

SF’s budget deficit could grow to $1B if Trump withholds federal funds, report finds

In light of <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/12/03/san-francisco-budget-deficit-trump-funding-deportations/">a historic budget deficit</a> reaching nearly $900 million, Lurie said the city would pause hiring for new positions, except those that are “historically challenging to staff and that directly support public safety and health.”

Additionally, Lurie told department heads to “realign programming and spending” with core priorities, according to a press release, including freezing new contracts and programs. 

Additionally, Lurie told department heads to “realign programming and spending” with core priorities, according to a press release, including freezing new contracts and programs.

The mayor’s office did not respond to a list of questions from The Standard about which departments would be exempted from the hiring freeze or the criteria for halting programs and contracts.&nbsp;

The mayor’s office did not respond to a list of questions from The Standard about which departments would be exempted from the hiring freeze or the criteria for halting programs and contracts.&nbsp;

Lurie’s decision closely follows directives from former Mayor London Breed, who in December called for 15% spending reductions.

Lurie’s decision closely follows directives from former Mayor London Breed, who in December called for 15% spending reductions.

Breed also proposed hiring freezes and the approval of contracts only for organizations that “demonstrate strong outcomes and cost-effectiveness, focused on direct services to clients,” a city presentation <a href="https://www.sf.gov/sites/default/files/2024-12/Budget%20Instructions%20Final%2012.03.24_1.pdf">said</a>.

Breed also proposed hiring freezes and the approval of contracts only for organizations that “demonstrate strong outcomes and cost-effectiveness, focused on direct services to clients,” a city presentation <a href="https://www.sf.gov/sites/default/files/2024-12/Budget%20Instructions%20Final%2012.03.24_1.pdf">said</a>.

Lurie announced the freeze at a crowded meeting Thursday at City Hall, according to a video posted on X that showed dozens of officials in a conference room.&nbsp;

Lurie announced the freeze at a crowded meeting Thursday at City Hall, according to a video posted on X that showed dozens of officials in a conference room.&nbsp;

core/embed

<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://twitter.com/DanielLurie/status/1877477008227381645
</div></figure>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">San Francisco is making a comeback, and I intend to put us in the best possible position to drive that growth. Our city is facing a major budget deficit, and today, the era of band-aid solutions is over. We are committed to fiscal discipline, giving San Franciscans the… <a href="https://t.co/FwcPSTN34K">pic.twitter.com/FwcPSTN34K</a>&mdash; Daniel Lurie 丹尼爾·羅偉 (@DanielLurie) <a href="https://twitter.com/DanielLurie/status/1877477008227381645?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 9, 2025</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The city has approximately 35,000 employees, and salaries and benefits are the biggest line item in the budget. An August <a href="https://www.sf.gov/sites/default/files/2024-07/AAO%20FY2024-25%20%26%20FY2025-26%20-%20FINAL%207.31.24.pdf">estimate</a> of the city’s current $15.9 billion budget shows wages amounting to $6.8 billion, or 43%.&nbsp;

The city has approximately 35,000 employees, and salaries and benefits are the biggest line item in the budget. An August <a href="https://www.sf.gov/sites/default/files/2024-07/AAO%20FY2024-25%20%26%20FY2025-26%20-%20FINAL%207.31.24.pdf">estimate</a> of the city’s current $15.9 billion budget shows wages amounting to $6.8 billion, or 43%.&nbsp;

Department heads have until March to draft their budgets for the following year. Lurie will release a finalized city budget in June, and the Board of Supervisors will vote on it in July. 

Department heads have until March to draft their budgets for the following year. Lurie will release a finalized city budget in June, and the Board of Supervisors will vote on it in July.

Budget officials have warned that the city’s deficit could grow significantly if federal funds, including hundreds of millions of dollars from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, are cut under the Trump administration. Questions have been swirling about whether the president-elect <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2025/01/02/san-francisco-politics-mayor-daniel-lurie-donald-trump/">will withhold federal funding from liberal cities like San Francisco</a> that may not comply with his stricter immigration proposals. Meanwhile, changes to Medicare and Medicaid could challenge the city’s health budgets.&nbsp;

5 political fights that will define SF this year

Budget officials have warned that the city’s deficit could grow significantly if federal funds, including hundreds of millions of dollars from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, are cut under the Trump administration. Questions have been swirling about whether the president-elect <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2025/01/02/san-francisco-politics-mayor-daniel-lurie-donald-trump/">will withhold federal funding from liberal cities like San Francisco</a> that may not comply with his stricter immigration proposals. Meanwhile, changes to Medicare and Medicaid could challenge the city’s health budgets.&nbsp;

Officials said in December that San Francisco’s total deficit could reach $1.4 billion by 2029.&nbsp;

Officials said in December that San Francisco’s total deficit could reach $1.4 billion by 2029.&nbsp;

Daniel Lurie wants to (kind of) pause city hiring

Joe Fitzgerald Rodriguez

If San Franciscans could collectively make new year’s resolutions, there’s little doubt what issues they’d hope to improve.&nbsp;

If San Franciscans could collectively make new year’s resolutions, there’s little doubt what issues they’d hope to improve.&nbsp;

During last year’s hard-fought election, denizens repeatedly told pollsters they want to feel safe in their communities, they want the fentanyl crisis to stop, they want affordable places to live, and they want a government that just plain works.&nbsp;

During last year’s hard-fought election, denizens repeatedly told pollsters they want to feel safe in their communities, they want the fentanyl crisis to stop, they want affordable places to live, and they want a government that just plain works.&nbsp;

Today, a new mayor assumes responsibility for those dreams.&nbsp;

Today, a new mayor assumes responsibility for those dreams.&nbsp;

Daniel Lurie took office Wednesday morning in an inauguration rife with pageantry. Everyone from the connected elite to the hoi polloi packed the ceremony at Civic Center, just outside City Hall, eager to hear Lurie’s vision for the City of Saint Francis.

Daniel Lurie took office Wednesday morning in an inauguration rife with pageantry. Everyone from the connected elite to the hoi polloi packed the ceremony at Civic Center, just outside City Hall, eager to hear Lurie’s vision for the City of Saint Francis.

The event drew roughly 2,600 attendees, according to Lurie&#8217;s team. Luminaries with prime seating included former mayors Willie Brown and Frank Jordan, outgoing mayor London Breed, First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom, Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, local and state officials, and members of the Board of Supervisors. Gov. Gavin Newsom was expected to attend, but stayed in Los Angeles area due to the major fires in the area, Lurie&#8217;s spokesperson said.

The event drew roughly 2,600 attendees, according to Lurie's team. Luminaries with prime seating included former mayors Willie Brown and Frank Jordan, outgoing mayor London Breed, First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom, Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, local and state officials, and members of the Board of Supervisors. Gov. Gavin Newsom was expected to attend, but stayed in Los Angeles area due to the major fires in the area, Lurie's spokesperson said.

The event drew roughly 2,600 attendees, according to Lurie&#8217;s team. Luminaries with prime seating included former mayors Willie Brown and Frank Jordan, outgoing mayor London Breed, First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom, Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, local and state officials, and members of the Board of Supervisors. Gov. Gavin Newsom was expected to attend, but stayed in Los Angeles area due to the major fires in the area, Lurie&#8217;s spokesperson said.

8055988759:Becca Prowda, the wife of Mayor-elect Daniel Lurie, takes their seats for the swearing-in of Daniel Lurie as the new Mayor of San Francisco on Wednesday, January 8, 2025. Daniel Lurie, a member of the Democratic Party and heir to the Levi Strauss fortune, has been officially inaugurated as the 46th mayor of San Francisco. With a strong background in philanthropy and public service, he steps into this important role ready to make significant contributions to the city's vibrant community. His administration will focus on addressing major issues facing the city, including drug-relate.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/nbg_6345.jpg?w=2500" alt="A group of people sit outdoors on a sunny day, some looking upward. A man in a suit in the center seems to be smiling with his eyes closed. A woman is sitting beside him." class="wp-image-352273"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayor Daniel Lurie and wife Becca Prowda take their seats at Lurie&#8217;s swearing-in ceremony, which drew roughly 2,600 registered attendees to Civic Center. </figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/nbg_6345.jpg?w=2500" alt="A group of people sit outdoors on a sunny day, some looking upward. A man in a suit in the center seems to be smiling with his eyes closed. A woman is sitting beside him." class="wp-image-352273"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayor Daniel Lurie and wife Becca Prowda take their seats at Lurie's swearing-in ceremony, which drew roughly 2,600 registered attendees to Civic Center. </figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/nbg_6345.jpg?w=2500" alt="A group of people sit outdoors on a sunny day, some looking upward. A man in a suit in the center seems to be smiling with his eyes closed. A woman is sitting beside him." class="wp-image-352273"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayor Daniel Lurie and wife Becca Prowda take their seats at Lurie&#8217;s swearing-in ceremony, which drew roughly 2,600 registered attendees to Civic Center. </figcaption></figure>

Dr. Nadine Burke, the former surgeon general of California and a Lurie campaign supporter; Lurie&#8217;s wife, Becca Prowda; and Warriors coach Steve Kerr each gave remarks praising Lurie&#8217;s vision. In his own speech, Lurie described ambitious plans to solve the fentanyl and homelessness crises, improve City Hall governance, and revive the city&#8217;s downtown economy. “Together, we can all get better, do better, and return San Francisco to its rightful place as the greatest city in the world,” Lurie told the crowd. The road ahead won&#8217;t be easy. Lurie will need to move beyond campaign platitudes to garner goodwill, said Jim Ross, a political consultant who led Gavin Newsom’s successful 2003 race for San Francisco mayor.&nbsp;In other words, the infamously <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/09/06/daniel-lurie-mayoral-campaign-poll-win/">vague mayoral candidate</a> will need to offer up more specifics.

Can Daniel Lurie finish first by coming in second? A new mayoral poll shows the way

Dr. Nadine Burke, the former surgeon general of California and a Lurie campaign supporter; Lurie's wife, Becca Prowda; and Warriors coach Steve Kerr each gave remarks praising Lurie's vision. In his own speech, Lurie described ambitious plans to solve the fentanyl and homelessness crises, improve City Hall governance, and revive the city's downtown economy. “Together, we can all get better, do better, and return San Francisco to its rightful place as the greatest city in the world,” Lurie told the crowd. The road ahead won't be easy. Lurie will need to move beyond campaign platitudes to garner goodwill, said Jim Ross, a political consultant who led Gavin Newsom’s successful 2003 race for San Francisco mayor.&nbsp;In other words, the infamously <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/09/06/daniel-lurie-mayoral-campaign-poll-win/">vague mayoral candidate</a> will need to offer up more specifics.

Dr. Nadine Burke, the former surgeon general of California and a Lurie campaign supporter; Lurie&#8217;s wife, Becca Prowda; and Warriors coach Steve Kerr each gave remarks praising Lurie&#8217;s vision. In his own speech, Lurie described ambitious plans to solve the fentanyl and homelessness crises, improve City Hall governance, and revive the city&#8217;s downtown economy. “Together, we can all get better, do better, and return San Francisco to its rightful place as the greatest city in the world,” Lurie told the crowd. The road ahead won&#8217;t be easy. Lurie will need to move beyond campaign platitudes to garner goodwill, said Jim Ross, a political consultant who led Gavin Newsom’s successful 2003 race for San Francisco mayor.&nbsp;In other words, the infamously <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/09/06/daniel-lurie-mayoral-campaign-poll-win/">vague mayoral candidate</a> will need to offer up more specifics.

“Governing as mayor of San Francisco is all about the details: nuts and bolts, making things happen for residents,” Ross said.&nbsp;

“Governing as mayor of San Francisco is all about the details: nuts and bolts, making things happen for residents,” Ross said.&nbsp;

Opinion: Lurie’s four czars will have vast power — but will they know how to wield it?

What Lurie’s first City Hall hires reveal  about his priorities

Photos: The charmed life of Daniel Lurie, San Francisco’s new mayor

It’s not like Lurie’s been sitting on his hands since he won office. Already the mayor-elect has <a href="https://sfstandard.com/opinion/2025/01/07/the-fresh-faces-in-luries-cabinet-will-have-vast-power-but-will-they-know-how-to-wield-it/">announced four policy chiefs</a>, new positions suggested by the policy think tank SPUR to wrangle the city’s sprawling departmental bureaucracy. He even hired the head of that think tank as chief of transportation and climate.&nbsp;

Lurie&#8217;s four czars will have vast power — but will they know how to wield it?

It’s not like Lurie’s been sitting on his hands since he won office. Already the mayor-elect has <a href="https://sfstandard.com/opinion/2025/01/07/the-fresh-faces-in-luries-cabinet-will-have-vast-power-but-will-they-know-how-to-wield-it/">announced four policy chiefs</a>, new positions suggested by the policy think tank SPUR to wrangle the city’s sprawling departmental bureaucracy. He even hired the head of that think tank as chief of transportation and climate.&nbsp;

Rodney Fong, CEO of the Chamber of Commerce, was feeling hopeful for the city’s economy. “We&#8217;re feeling, already every single week, an increase in business in San Francisco,&#8221; Fong said at the inauguration ceremony.

Rodney Fong, CEO of the Chamber of Commerce, was feeling hopeful for the city’s economy. “We're feeling, already every single week, an increase in business in San Francisco," Fong said at the inauguration ceremony.

Rodney Fong, CEO of the Chamber of Commerce, was feeling hopeful for the city’s economy. “We&#8217;re feeling, already every single week, an increase in business in San Francisco,&#8221; Fong said at the inauguration ceremony.

Districty Attorney Brooke Jenkins said she supports Lurie&#8217;s push for more drug treatment beds, an effort he advocated for during his campaign. “We have to have a system in a place where we can take them to detox and to be prepared to accept the offers of treatment,” Jenkins said.

Districty Attorney Brooke Jenkins said she supports Lurie's push for more drug treatment beds, an effort he advocated for during his campaign. “We have to have a system in a place where we can take them to detox and to be prepared to accept the offers of treatment,” Jenkins said.

Districty Attorney Brooke Jenkins said she supports Lurie&#8217;s push for more drug treatment beds, an effort he advocated for during his campaign. “We have to have a system in a place where we can take them to detox and to be prepared to accept the offers of treatment,” Jenkins said.

Lurie will need the help. As much as he wants to build a new San Francisco, the world may end up <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/11/07/daniel-lurie-wins-san-francisco-mayor/">bashing in his plans with a baseball bat</a>.

Lurie will need the help. As much as he wants to build a new San Francisco, the world may end up <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/11/07/daniel-lurie-wins-san-francisco-mayor/">bashing in his plans with a baseball bat</a>.

His success as mayor very well may be judged on issues far outside his control.

His success as mayor very well may be judged on issues far outside his control.

Imagine a world where President Trump makes good on his promise to deport millions of noncitizen Americans. When thousands of San Franciscans are carried out of Mission district homes by armed Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, will Lurie be marked as a limp mayor for a failure to defend them?&nbsp;

Imagine a world where President Trump makes good on his promise to deport millions of noncitizen Americans. When thousands of San Franciscans are carried out of Mission district homes by armed Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, will Lurie be marked as a limp mayor for a failure to defend them?&nbsp;

MONTEZUMA PASS, AZ, AUGUST 22: 

Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump speaks to journalists at the U.S. - Mexico border in Montezuma Pass, Arizona, on August 22, 2024. Trump is touring the border ahead of campaign events in Las Vegas, Nevada and Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Tom Brenner for The Washington Post via Getty Images)

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/gettyimages-2167189095.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man in a blue suit and red tie speaks at a podium with &quot;The Southern Border&quot; written on it, in front of a tall metal border fence." class="wp-image-343069"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">President-elect Donald Trump has pledged to deport undocumented immigrants and may target sanctuary cities like San Francisco. </figcaption></figure>

At a Tuesday-night event at the Congregation Emanu-El synagogue on Lake Street, Lurie praised San Francisco&#8217;s liberal values but suggested that the city needs to look inward.

At a Tuesday-night event at the Congregation Emanu-El synagogue on Lake Street, Lurie praised San Francisco's liberal values but suggested that the city needs to look inward.

At a Tuesday-night event at the Congregation Emanu-El synagogue on Lake Street, Lurie praised San Francisco&#8217;s liberal values but suggested that the city needs to look inward.

&#8220;San Francisco is known all over the world as a place where people are allowed to love who they want to love and practice any faith that they choose without fear of persecution, a place where people seek safe harbor and shelter, and that will remain true under my administration,&#8221; he said. &#8220;But &#8230; to truly be a safe harbor, we have to get our house in order.&#8221;

"San Francisco is known all over the world as a place where people are allowed to love who they want to love and practice any faith that they choose without fear of persecution, a place where people seek safe harbor and shelter, and that will remain true under my administration," he said. "But ... to truly be a safe harbor, we have to get our house in order."

&#8220;San Francisco is known all over the world as a place where people are allowed to love who they want to love and practice any faith that they choose without fear of persecution, a place where people seek safe harbor and shelter, and that will remain true under my administration,&#8221; he said. &#8220;But &#8230; to truly be a safe harbor, we have to get our house in order.&#8221;

Search Results for: daniel lurie

Opinion: Could Daniel Lurie be SF’s Michael Bloomberg?

Rafael Mandelman is the new Board of Supervisors president

Daniel Lurie wants to (kind of) pause city hiring

Today is the day: London Breed is out. Daniel Lurie is in

Opinion: Daniel Lurie’s ‘plan’ to fix downtown is off to a vague start