Mike Ege

Housing dominates this week’s agenda as the Board of Supervisors prepares to put vital business to bed before going on summer recess. On deck are a vote to override <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/mayor-breed-vetoed-the-board-of-supervisors-fourplex-legislation-so-now-what/">Mayor London Breed’s veto</a> of a recently passed “fourplex” bill, and votes to place two more controversial housing proposals on the ballot. Meanwhile, yet another try at allowing fourplexes on single-family home lots is getting new life.&nbsp;

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Housing dominates this week’s agenda as the Board of Supervisors prepares to put vital business to bed before going on summer recess. On deck are a vote to override <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/mayor-breed-vetoed-the-board-of-supervisors-fourplex-legislation-so-now-what/">Mayor London Breed’s veto</a> of a recently passed “fourplex” bill, and votes to place two more controversial housing proposals on the ballot. Meanwhile, yet another try at allowing fourplexes on single-family home lots is getting new life.&nbsp;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fourplex-redux">Fourplex Redux</h2>

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<h2 id="h-fourplex-redux">Fourplex Redux</h2>

After languishing in <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/a-fourplex-on-each-lot-in-debate-over-upzoning-sfs-westside-one-proposal-emerges-as-the-strongest/">development hell</a> for months, a bill to allow four-unit buildings on single-family lots <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/fourplex-bill-passes-but-it-wont-create-much-more-housing/">was finally passed in June</a>. Introduced by District 8 Supervisor Rafael Mandelman, it was originally drafted to allow for the development of four-unit buildings on all lots throughout the city, and six-unit buildings on corner lots. But in committee, supervisors tacked on amendments that placed restrictions on projects. By the end, even Mandelman admitted that the bill would have limited impact.&nbsp;

After languishing in <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/a-fourplex-on-each-lot-in-debate-over-upzoning-sfs-westside-one-proposal-emerges-as-the-strongest/">development hell</a> for months, a bill to allow four-unit buildings on single-family lots <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/fourplex-bill-passes-but-it-wont-create-much-more-housing/">was finally passed in June</a>. Introduced by District 8 Supervisor Rafael Mandelman, it was originally drafted to allow for the development of four-unit buildings on all lots throughout the city, and six-unit buildings on corner lots. But in committee, supervisors tacked on amendments that placed restrictions on projects. By the end, even Mandelman admitted that the bill would have limited impact.&nbsp;

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>At this point, it appears unlikely to survive Breed’s veto, as eight votes are required to override it and the bill didn&#8217;t quite meet that high threshold in June. Breed, who is allied with pro-housing groups such as the Housing Action Coalition and SF YIMBY deemed the legislation an attempt to evade Senate Bill 9, a state law that essentially abolished single-family zoning restrictions.</li></ul>

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<ul><li>At this point, it appears unlikely to survive Breed’s veto, as eight votes are required to override it and the bill didn't quite meet that high threshold in June. Breed, who is allied with pro-housing groups such as the Housing Action Coalition and SF YIMBY deemed the legislation an attempt to evade Senate Bill 9, a state law that essentially abolished single-family zoning restrictions.</li></ul>

<ul><li>At this point, it appears unlikely to survive Breed’s veto, as eight votes are required to override it and the bill didn&#8217;t quite meet that high threshold in June. Breed, who is allied with pro-housing groups such as the Housing Action Coalition and SF YIMBY deemed the legislation an attempt to evade Senate Bill 9, a state law that essentially abolished single-family zoning restrictions.</li></ul>

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Mandelman pushed the bill towards passage as “a small, imperfect, positive step” that would move the city at least a little closer to building more housing in low-density neighborhoods. Some colleagues, such as District 11 Supervisor Ahsha Safai, argued the amendments were poison pills that would end up making building more difficult.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>Mandelman pushed the bill towards passage as “a small, imperfect, positive step” that would move the city at least a little closer to building more housing in low-density neighborhoods. Some colleagues, such as District 11 Supervisor Ahsha Safai, argued the amendments were poison pills that would end up making building more difficult.&nbsp;</li></ul>

Supervisor Matt Dorsey speaks at the Affordable Homes Now Rally in the Tenderloin neighborhood of San Francisco, Calif. on Thursday, June 16, 2022. | Eloïse Kelsey for The Standard

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/SupesPreview726_INLINED02-2500x1743.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-64053"/><figcaption>Supervisor Matt Dorsey speaks at the Affordable Homes Now Rally in the Tenderloin neighborhood of San Francisco on Thursday, June 16, 2022. | Eloïse Kelsey for The Standard</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/SupesPreview726_INLINED02-2500x1743.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-64053"/><figcaption>Supervisor Matt Dorsey speaks at the Affordable Homes Now Rally in the Tenderloin neighborhood of San Francisco on Thursday, June 16, 2022. | Eloïse Kelsey for The Standard</figcaption></figure>

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Foreshadowing the mayor’s veto, Safai and District 6 Supervisor Matt Dorsey both characterized the amended bill as a facile attempt to evade <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/housing-shell-game-supes-latest-actions-set-to-slow-new-housing-as-state-mandate-looms/">state legislation mandating new housing construction</a>. Board president and District 10 Supervisor Shamann Walton, for his part, voted against it for different reasons, saying it would encourage more property speculation and displacement.</li></ul>

<ul><li>Foreshadowing the mayor’s veto, Safai and District 6 Supervisor Matt Dorsey both characterized the amended bill as a facile attempt to evade <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/city-hall/housing-shell-game-supes-latest-actions-set-to-slow-new-housing-as-state-mandate-looms/">state legislation mandating new housing construction</a>. Board president and District 10 Supervisor Shamann Walton, for his part, voted against it for different reasons, saying it would encourage more property speculation and displacement.</li></ul>

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Meanwhile, Safai’s version of “Fourplex” is waiting in the wings, as it recently received recommendation from the Planning Commission. That bill would allow for a similar upzoning of residential lots for projects where some units are made affordable to “missing middle” income residents, either by providing at least one below market-rate unit or paying an inclusionary housing fee.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>Meanwhile, Safai’s version of “Fourplex” is waiting in the wings, as it recently received recommendation from the Planning Commission. That bill would allow for a similar upzoning of residential lots for projects where some units are made affordable to “missing middle” income residents, either by providing at least one below market-rate unit or paying an inclusionary housing fee.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Safai told The Standard that he is more than willing to “revive the conversation” and get the board to go forward with a neighborhood upzoning plan that doesn’t subvert state law. “SB 9 needs to be preserved,” says Safai. But he noted that he was open to reasonable amendments, including applying rent control to some new units, as well as focusing the legislation on neighborhoods with little to no previous development.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>Safai told The Standard that he is more than willing to “revive the conversation” and get the board to go forward with a neighborhood upzoning plan that doesn’t subvert state law. “SB 9 needs to be preserved,” says Safai. But he noted that he was open to reasonable amendments, including applying rent control to some new units, as well as focusing the legislation on neighborhoods with little to no previous development.&nbsp;</li></ul>

Housing Ballot Measures Set for Controversy

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-housing-ballot-measures-set-for-controversy">Housing Ballot Measures Set for Controversy</h2>

<h2 id="h-housing-ballot-measures-set-for-controversy">Housing Ballot Measures Set for Controversy</h2>

Looking towards 16th Ave. in the Sunset district on Thursday, Oct. 24, 2019, in San Francisco, Calif. (Photo By Liz Hafalia/The San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images)

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/SupesPreview726_INLINED-2500x1667.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-64057"/><figcaption>Looking towards 16th Ave. in the Sunset district on Thursday, Oct. 24, 2019, in San Francisco, Calif. | Getty Images</figcaption></figure>

Because this is the last meeting before the summer recess, the board needs to make final votes on charter amendments for the November ballot. Charter amendments approved by the board have to be submitted to the Department of Elections by end of business on Friday, July 29. Two of the remaining measures are set to push the board majority’s agenda on housing.&nbsp;

Because this is the last meeting before the summer recess, the board needs to make final votes on charter amendments for the November ballot. Charter amendments approved by the board have to be submitted to the Department of Elections by end of business on Friday, July 29. Two of the remaining measures are set to push the board majority’s agenda on housing.&nbsp;

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>The Affordable Housing Production Act, sponsored principally by District 1 Supervisor Connie Chan, promises to expedite certain housing projects, including 100% affordable projects and those that add more inclusionary affordable units beyond statutory requirements. It also has other restrictions that opponents say would make building under the law unfeasible. </li><li>Some of those restrictions not only deal with what kind of units are built, but <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/local-unions-lock-horns-over-competing-housing-measures/">who gets to work on building them</a>. Labor groups are split on the measure. </li><li>Chan’s proposal would compete with the Affordable Homes Now measure backed by Breed and housing advocates. The Housing Action Coalition has described Chan’s measure as “a sham” designed to split the vote, and alleges the board is sending the measure to the ballot without adequate environmental review. They are <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/housing-fight-could-wind-up-in-court-with-advocates-planning-to-sue-over-ballot-measure/">exploring litigation</a> to block Chan’s measure from going to the ballot.</li><li>The other housing measure, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/rent-control-on-new-units-sped-up-construction-and-new-housing-governance-at-city-hall-promised-by-supes-in-raft-of-fall-ballot-measures/">sponsored by District 3 Supervisor Aaron Peskin</a>, would make use of an exception in the Costa-Hawkins Rental Housing Act, a state law which otherwise prevents new housing from being under rent control, to apply it to new projects built under density bonus or other upzoning incentives. </li><li>Another measure still up for vote is District 9 Supervisor Hillary Ronen’s “Student Success Fund,” which would use the city’s excess Educational Revenue Augmentation Funds (ERAF)—essentially property tax revenue earmarked for public school funding, which is given back once local schools are funded based on enrollment—to create a city-controlled fund to support academic achievement and student support programs. </li><li>Meanwhile, a measure proposed by Peskin to force city employees found to have engaged in certain kinds of corruption to forfeit their pensions appears to still be stuck in committee and likely will not make it to the November ballot, due to an impasse with city employee unions. </li></ul>

<ul><li>The Affordable Housing Production Act, sponsored principally by District 1 Supervisor Connie Chan, promises to expedite certain housing projects, including 100% affordable projects and those that add more inclusionary affordable units beyond statutory requirements. It also has other restrictions that opponents say would make building under the law unfeasible. </li><li>Some of those restrictions not only deal with what kind of units are built, but <a href="https://sfstandard.com/housing-development/local-unions-lock-horns-over-competing-housing-measures/">who gets to work on building them</a>. Labor groups are split on the measure. </li><li>Chan’s proposal would compete with the Affordable Homes Now measure backed by Breed and housing advocates. The Housing Action Coalition has described Chan’s measure as “a sham” designed to split the vote, and alleges the board is sending the measure to the ballot without adequate environmental review. They are <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/housing-fight-could-wind-up-in-court-with-advocates-planning-to-sue-over-ballot-measure/">exploring litigation</a> to block Chan’s measure from going to the ballot.</li><li>The other housing measure, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/rent-control-on-new-units-sped-up-construction-and-new-housing-governance-at-city-hall-promised-by-supes-in-raft-of-fall-ballot-measures/">sponsored by District 3 Supervisor Aaron Peskin</a>, would make use of an exception in the Costa-Hawkins Rental Housing Act, a state law which otherwise prevents new housing from being under rent control, to apply it to new projects built under density bonus or other upzoning incentives. </li><li>Another measure still up for vote is District 9 Supervisor Hillary Ronen’s “Student Success Fund,” which would use the city’s excess Educational Revenue Augmentation Funds (ERAF)—essentially property tax revenue earmarked for public school funding, which is given back once local schools are funded based on enrollment—to create a city-controlled fund to support academic achievement and student support programs. </li><li>Meanwhile, a measure proposed by Peskin to force city employees found to have engaged in certain kinds of corruption to forfeit their pensions appears to still be stuck in committee and likely will not make it to the November ballot, due to an impasse with city employee unions. </li></ul>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-other-business">Other Business</h2>

<h2 id="h-other-business">Other Business</h2>

While housing and election matters may take up much of this week’s agenda, some other notable legislation is also set for passage.&nbsp;

While housing and election matters may take up much of this week’s agenda, some other notable legislation is also set for passage.&nbsp;

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>These include a bill from Safai to help homeowners facing foreclosure over property tax defaults by mandating referral of their cases to the Mayor’s Office of Housing for assistance.&nbsp;</li><li>Another bill would get the ball rolling on a city guaranteed income program by establishing city government support for the policy, as well as requesting the establishment of a working group for future policy.&nbsp;</li><li>Another bill from District 7 Supervisor Myrna Melgar will allow tenants, and not just landlords, to take part in permit appeals. If successful, Melgar&#8217;s proposal make signatures of “verified tenants” valid for the purpose of appealing conditional use permits.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>These include a bill from Safai to help homeowners facing foreclosure over property tax defaults by mandating referral of their cases to the Mayor’s Office of Housing for assistance.&nbsp;</li><li>Another bill would get the ball rolling on a city guaranteed income program by establishing city government support for the policy, as well as requesting the establishment of a working group for future policy.&nbsp;</li><li>Another bill from District 7 Supervisor Myrna Melgar will allow tenants, and not just landlords, to take part in permit appeals. If successful, Melgar's proposal make signatures of “verified tenants” valid for the purpose of appealing conditional use permits.&nbsp;</li></ul>

<ul><li>These include a bill from Safai to help homeowners facing foreclosure over property tax defaults by mandating referral of their cases to the Mayor’s Office of Housing for assistance.&nbsp;</li><li>Another bill would get the ball rolling on a city guaranteed income program by establishing city government support for the policy, as well as requesting the establishment of a working group for future policy.&nbsp;</li><li>Another bill from District 7 Supervisor Myrna Melgar will allow tenants, and not just landlords, to take part in permit appeals. If successful, Melgar&#8217;s proposal make signatures of “verified tenants” valid for the purpose of appealing conditional use permits.&nbsp;</li></ul>

Supervisors’ preview: Housing, housing and more housing

Han Li

Janice Li’s re-election is shaping up to be an easy one: <a href="http://twitter.com/JaniceForBART/status/1557419129321058304(opens in a new tab)">she’s running unopposed to keep her BART board seat</a>, representing part of San Francisco in the regional transit authority.

Janice Li’s re-election is shaping up to be an easy one: <a href="http://twitter.com/JaniceForBART/status/1557419129321058304(opens in a new tab)">she’s running unopposed to keep her BART board seat</a>, representing part of San Francisco in the regional transit authority.

The real challenge she faces has less to do with her campaign than in getting her Chinese name to appear on the ballot.&nbsp;

The real challenge she faces has less to do with her campaign than in getting her Chinese name to appear on the ballot.&nbsp;

It started at the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/">San Francisco </a>Department of Elections—“I triple-checked all of the paperwork I needed to bring,” Li recounts—and turned into an intercontinental saga, one that had Li unearth the original birth certificate from her native Hong Kong.

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It started at the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/">San Francisco </a>Department of Elections—“I triple-checked all of the paperwork I needed to bring,” Li recounts—and turned into an intercontinental saga, one that had Li unearth the original birth certificate from her native Hong Kong.

To Li, it was important for her Chinese heritage to show through, regardless of whether her political race was competitive. Some Chinese voters may not know any candidates at all, and just vote based on name alone. They might wonder, Li said, “Does it sound Asian? Does it sound ethnically one thing or another?”

To Li, it was important for her Chinese heritage to show through, regardless of whether her political race was competitive. Some Chinese voters may not know any candidates at all, and just vote based on name alone. They might wonder, Li said, “Does it sound Asian? Does it sound ethnically one thing or another?”

About 184,000 Chinese people live in San Francisco, or 21% of the city’s population, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau. Of that population, 118,000 are foreign-born and a large share of them speak Cantonese and Mandarin.

About 184,000 Chinese people live in San Francisco, or 21% of the city’s population, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau. Of that population, 118,000 are foreign-born and a large share of them speak Cantonese and Mandarin.

Rebecca Mincio (left), BART board member Janice Li (center), and Claire Lochner (right) speak at Li’s campaign event in San Francisco, Calif., on Tuesday, August 9, 2022. | Juliana Yamada/The Standard

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/ChineseName-INLINEOPTION2.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-69655"/><figcaption>Rebecca Mincio (left), BART board member Janice Li (center), and Claire Lochner (right) speak at Li’s campaign event in San Francisco, Calif., on Tuesday, August 9, 2022. | Juliana Yamada/The Standard</figcaption></figure>

Not all can vote, of course. But their large presence gives them considerable sway over local politics.

Not all can vote, of course. But their large presence gives them considerable sway over local politics.

Because of the city’s robust Chinese-speaking population, San Francisco ballots are, by default, bilingual in English and Chinese. That means every candidate’s name—whether they’re of Chinese ancestry or not—appears in English and Chinese, too.

Because of the city’s robust Chinese-speaking population, San Francisco ballots are, by default, bilingual in English and Chinese. That means every candidate’s name—whether they’re of Chinese ancestry or not—appears in English and Chinese, too.

With Asian American identity politics playing heavily into local politics, it’s become a city tradition for candidates to get a Chinese name on the ballot.&nbsp;

With Asian American identity politics playing heavily into local politics, it’s become a city tradition for candidates to get a Chinese name on the ballot.&nbsp;

Years ago, the city used to let candidates pick their own Chinese names, which led to local figures adopting ballot monikers that translated to, in State Sen. Scott Weiner’s case, for example, something to the effect of “<a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/politics/article/For-SF-candidates-Chinese-name-can-spell-edge-at-9191703.php?t=25d97e4fab">bold, majestic, charitable and tall.</a>” Otherwise, the Department of Elections has hired a contractor to provide direct transliterations.

Years ago, the city used to let candidates pick their own Chinese names, which led to local figures adopting ballot monikers that translated to, in State Sen. Scott Weiner’s case, for example, something to the effect of “<a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/politics/article/For-SF-candidates-Chinese-name-can-spell-edge-at-9191703.php?t=25d97e4fab">bold, majestic, charitable and tall.</a>” Otherwise, the Department of Elections has hired a contractor to provide direct transliterations.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">I love my Chinese name and also love our campaign mascot, the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/giraffe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#giraffe</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Wiener2016?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Wiener2016</a> <a href="https://t.co/UVzLNelFaX">https://t.co/UVzLNelFaX</a>&mdash; Senator Scott Wiener (@Scott_Wiener) <a href="https://twitter.com/Scott_Wiener/status/770668150954205185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2016</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

On the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, only two supes are Chinese Americans born with a Chinese name—but their nine non-Chinese colleagues each have a Chinese name of their own on the ballot.

On the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, only two supes are Chinese Americans born with a Chinese name—but their nine non-Chinese colleagues each have a Chinese name of their own on the ballot.

Supervisor Aaron Peskin’s, for example, is listed as 佩斯金. Supervisor Catherine Stefani appears as 司嘉怡. Mayor London Breed’s Chinese name is also a direct transliteration.

Supervisor Aaron Peskin’s, for example, is listed as 佩斯金. Supervisor Catherine Stefani appears as 司嘉怡. Mayor London Breed’s Chinese name is also a direct transliteration.

For pretty much everyone in San Francisco politics—from District Attorney Brooke Jenkins, Public Defender Mano Raju, Treasurer Jose Cisneros and Assessor-Recorder Joaquin Torres, to the local school district and city college board members—having a Chinese name is a matter of course.&nbsp;

For pretty much everyone in San Francisco politics—from District Attorney Brooke Jenkins, Public Defender Mano Raju, Treasurer Jose Cisneros and Assessor-Recorder Joaquin Torres, to the local school district and city college board members—having a Chinese name is a matter of course.&nbsp;

One might think the process would be straightforward for a candidate of Chinese ancestry. In Li’s case, however, it was a little less so.&nbsp;

One might think the process would be straightforward for a candidate of Chinese ancestry. In Li’s case, however, it was a little less so.&nbsp;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rules-of-the-name">Rules of the Name</h2>

<h2 id="h-rules-of-the-name">Rules of the Name</h2>

In 2019, Assemblymember Evan Low, D-Campbell, who’s also Chinese American, authored <a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=201920200AB57">AB 57</a> to regulate the Chinese translation on the ballot. AB 57, which passed into law, states that, with the exception of being born with the name or using it for at least two years, a candidate can only use a Chinese name on the ballot based on transliteration.

In 2019, Assemblymember Evan Low, D-Campbell, who’s also Chinese American, authored <a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=201920200AB57">AB 57</a> to regulate the Chinese translation on the ballot. AB 57, which passed into law, states that, with the exception of being born with the name or using it for at least two years, a candidate can only use a Chinese name on the ballot based on transliteration.

Unlike four years ago, when Li filed to run for re-election this time, she knew she had to prove her birth name. The rule sent Li on a hunt for the birth certificate issued in 1987 by the Birth and Deaths Registry under British colonial rule in Hong Kong.

Unlike four years ago, when Li filed to run for re-election this time, she knew she had to prove her birth name. The rule sent Li on a hunt for the birth certificate issued in 1987 by the Birth and Deaths Registry under British colonial rule in Hong Kong.

Thankfully, she had it on hand after her family helped dig it up to prove that she was indeed born with the name 李正元, Jing Yuan Li, and had every right to present herself that way to voters.

Thankfully, she had it on hand after her family helped dig it up to prove that she was indeed born with the name 李正元, Jing Yuan Li, and had every right to present herself that way to voters.

Janice Li's birth certificate (redacted) from the Birth and Deaths Registry, Hong Kong. | Courtesy Photo

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Janice-Li-birth-certificate-redacted-2500x1774.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-69658"/><figcaption>Janice Li&#8217;s birth certificate (redacted) from the Birth and Deaths Registry, Hong Kong. | Courtesy Photo</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Janice-Li-birth-certificate-redacted-2500x1774.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-69658"/><figcaption>Janice Li's birth certificate (redacted) from the Birth and Deaths Registry, Hong Kong. | Courtesy Photo</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Janice-Li-birth-certificate-redacted-2500x1774.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-69658"/><figcaption>Janice Li&#8217;s birth certificate (redacted) from the Birth and Deaths Registry, Hong Kong. | Courtesy Photo</figcaption></figure>

“I use it, it’s what my parents called me,” Li said, “which is very different from someone with the ability to create a name that makes them look powerful on a ballot.”

“I use it, it’s what my parents called me,” Li said, “which is very different from someone with the ability to create a name that makes them look powerful on a ballot.”

Apparently, there’s more than one way to prove one’s right to a Chinese name in San Francisco.

Apparently, there’s more than one way to prove one’s right to a Chinese name in San Francisco.

In local races, the city’s Department of Elections <a href="https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/san_francisco/latest/sf_elections/0-0-0-138">has rules</a> that slightly differ from those spelled out under Low’s AB 57. John Arntz, who helms the department, said they accept many sources to verify the Chinese names: “newspaper articles, videos from news outlets mentioning a candidate and even previous campaign flyers and related materials.”

In local races, the city’s Department of Elections <a href="https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/san_francisco/latest/sf_elections/0-0-0-138">has rules</a> that slightly differ from those spelled out under Low’s AB 57. John Arntz, who helms the department, said they accept many sources to verify the Chinese names: “newspaper articles, videos from news outlets mentioning a candidate and even previous campaign flyers and related materials.”

In 2019, then-supervisor candidate Dean Preston requested his Chinese name to be 潘正義, which means Justice Pan, and <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fum60Vuk-Ay-5i0zU4lVRMeJSxW-Qf-K/view?usp=sharing">got rejected</a> by the Department of Elections because the name came off as giving a positive spin, which is considered unfair to other contenders. Even so, Preston won the election and has gone by Justice Pan on the ballot and in the Chinese press ever since.&nbsp;

In 2019, then-supervisor candidate Dean Preston requested his Chinese name to be 潘正義, which means Justice Pan, and <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fum60Vuk-Ay-5i0zU4lVRMeJSxW-Qf-K/view?usp=sharing">got rejected</a> by the Department of Elections because the name came off as giving a positive spin, which is considered unfair to other contenders. Even so, Preston won the election and has gone by Justice Pan on the ballot and in the Chinese press ever since.&nbsp;

Because he’s used it for a while and it’s been widely publicized, San Francisco election officials grandfathered him in, and let him use it on the 2020 ballot.

Because he’s used it for a while and it’s been widely publicized, San Francisco election officials grandfathered him in, and let him use it on the 2020 ballot.

Arntz insisted that AB 57 doesn’t apply to San Francisco local races because the local election code already has guidance on Chinese names without the two-year requirement. However, Low’s office stated that “AB 57 applies to any jurisdiction if they currently provide a translation of the candidates’ name.”

Arntz insisted that AB 57 doesn’t apply to San Francisco local races because the local election code already has guidance on Chinese names without the two-year requirement. However, Low’s office stated that “AB 57 applies to any jurisdiction if they currently provide a translation of the candidates’ name.”

The City Attorney’s Office tells The Standard that it’s currently reviewing AB 57 and its impact on local races.

The City Attorney’s Office tells The Standard that it’s currently reviewing AB 57 and its impact on local races.

BART board member Janice Li speaks with supporters at her campaign event in San Francisco, Calif., on Tuesday, August 9, 2022. | Juliana Yamada/The Standard

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/ChineseName-INLINE-OPTION1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-69661"/><figcaption>BART board member Janice Li speaks with supporters at her campaign event in San Francisco, Calif., on Tuesday, August 9, 2022. | Juliana Yamada/The Standard</figcaption></figure>

Li said the two-year-usage requirement might make it hard for non-Chinese political newcomers to establish Chinese names compared to established elected officials. But she supports the state law imposing it after seeing the power of her birth certificate proving her own identity.&nbsp;

Li said the two-year-usage requirement might make it hard for non-Chinese political newcomers to establish Chinese names compared to established elected officials. But she supports the state law imposing it after seeing the power of her birth certificate proving her own identity.&nbsp;

“Some people are criticizing me for either being a fake Asian or not really representing Chinese people,” Li said. “But the truth is that I was born in Hong Kong, and I am ethnically Chinese.”

“Some people are criticizing me for either being a fake Asian or not really representing Chinese people,” Li said. “But the truth is that I was born in Hong Kong, and I am ethnically Chinese.”

She was born in Hong Kong. Does she have to prove her right to put a Chinese name on the SF ballot?

The main contenders to become California’s new U.S. senator want voters to see them in a certain light:

The main contenders to become California’s new U.S. senator want voters to see them in a certain light:

Rep. Adam Schiff as a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UG32ejSiOvA">defender</a> of <a href="https://www.adamschiff.com/issue/defending-democracy/">democracy</a>; Rep. Katie Porter as an <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H4FQUQ7K2ac">anti-corruption</a> <a href="https://katieporter.com/katie-porter-releases-plan-to-shake-up-the-senate-and-fight-corruption-in-washington/">crusader</a>; Rep. Barbara Lee as a <a href="https://twitter.com/BarbaraLeeForCA/status/1722320229836136599">courageous progressive</a>; Eric Early as a champion for the “<a href="https://ericearly.com/">forgotten Americans</a>”; and Steve Garvey as a commonsense <a href="https://stevegarvey.com/steves-story/">consensus builder</a>.

Rep. Adam Schiff as a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UG32ejSiOvA">defender</a> of <a href="https://www.adamschiff.com/issue/defending-democracy/">democracy</a>; Rep. Katie Porter as an <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H4FQUQ7K2ac">anti-corruption</a> <a href="https://katieporter.com/katie-porter-releases-plan-to-shake-up-the-senate-and-fight-corruption-in-washington/">crusader</a>; Rep. Barbara Lee as a <a href="https://twitter.com/BarbaraLeeForCA/status/1722320229836136599">courageous progressive</a>; Eric Early as a champion for the “<a href="https://ericearly.com/">forgotten Americans</a>”; and Steve Garvey as a commonsense <a href="https://stevegarvey.com/steves-story/">consensus builder</a>.

But their ads, slogans and speeches offer only a glimpse into who they are or what they have done—or plan to do—to tackle some of Californians’ most pressing concerns. All three Democrats have years of voting records while serving in Congress.

But their ads, slogans and speeches offer only a glimpse into who they are or what they have done—or plan to do—to tackle some of Californians’ most pressing concerns. All three Democrats have years of voting records while serving in Congress.

All but Early are set to <a href="https://www.politico.com/news/2024/01/04/politico-to-host-first-california-u-s-senate-debate-00133755">debate for the first time in this race</a> on Monday evening. Ahead of the event, CalMatters sent each campaign a questionnaire and analyzed their records and stances on issues such as border, immigration, criminal justice, foreign policy, economy, labor and housing.

All but Early are set to <a href="https://www.politico.com/news/2024/01/04/politico-to-host-first-california-u-s-senate-debate-00133755">debate for the first time in this race</a> on Monday evening. Ahead of the event, CalMatters sent each campaign a questionnaire and analyzed their records and stances on issues such as border, immigration, criminal justice, foreign policy, economy, labor and housing.

Here’s a detailed look at where they stand on those issues — and how they differ from each other:

Here’s a detailed look at where they stand on those issues — and how they differ from each other:

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-border-and-immigration">Border and Immigration</h2>

The three Democrats share a similar track record on immigration and border security issues.

The three Democrats share a similar track record on immigration and border security issues.

They all voted against Republican proposals to <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/5283">bar federally funded housing to migrants</a>, <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/2?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22HR2%22%7D&amp;s=1&amp;r=1">limit asylum eligibility</a> and condemn the use of <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/5283">public school facilities</a> to shelter migrants. They have all supported—or even co-sponsored—bills to provide a <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/1603">pathway to citizenship</a> for undocumented immigrants and <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/6?s=4&amp;r=2&amp;q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22HR6%22%7D">their children</a>, establish <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/2203?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22HR2203%22%7D&amp;s=5&amp;r=3">independent oversight</a> on border security activities and <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/1333?s=6&amp;r=2&amp;q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22HR1333%22%7D">limit the president’s ability</a> to restrict undocumented immigrant entries.

They all voted against Republican proposals to <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/5283">bar federally funded housing to migrants</a>, <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/2?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22HR2%22%7D&amp;s=1&amp;r=1">limit asylum eligibility</a> and condemn the use of <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/5283">public school facilities</a> to shelter migrants. They have all supported—or even co-sponsored—bills to provide a <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/1603">pathway to citizenship</a> for undocumented immigrants and <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/6?s=4&amp;r=2&amp;q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22HR6%22%7D">their children</a>, establish <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/2203?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22HR2203%22%7D&amp;s=5&amp;r=3">independent oversight</a> on border security activities and <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/1333?s=6&amp;r=2&amp;q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22HR1333%22%7D">limit the president’s ability</a> to restrict undocumented immigrant entries.

All support expanding unemployment insurance benefits to undocumented immigrants seeking work.

All support expanding unemployment insurance benefits to undocumented immigrants seeking work.

At a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PtmpqWpPfvI">November immigration forum</a>, all three Democrats criticized President Joe Biden’s policy that <a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/us/biden-administration-urges-us-court-uphold-asylum-restrictions-2023-11-08/">banned most migrants</a> from seeking asylum if they crossed the border illegally. Porter said the policy was “dishonoring this nation’s history and our future.” Schiff and Lee both called it wrong.

At a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PtmpqWpPfvI">November immigration forum</a>, all three Democrats criticized President Joe Biden’s policy that <a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/us/biden-administration-urges-us-court-uphold-asylum-restrictions-2023-11-08/">banned most migrants</a> from seeking asylum if they crossed the border illegally. Porter said the policy was “dishonoring this nation’s history and our future.” Schiff and Lee both called it wrong.

Biden—noting that previous congressional actions <a href="https://www.factcheck.org/2023/10/bidens-border-wall-explained/">tied his hands</a>—decided to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2023/10/05/us/biden-border-wall-waiver.html">continue building former President Donald Trump’s Mexican border wall</a> in October, shocking some Democrats. The decision drew instant criticism from Lee, who urged White House to reverse course in a <a href="https://twitter.com/RepBarbaraLee/status/1710414901540249693">tweet</a>.

Biden—noting that previous congressional actions <a href="https://www.factcheck.org/2023/10/bidens-border-wall-explained/">tied his hands</a>—decided to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2023/10/05/us/biden-border-wall-waiver.html">continue building former President Donald Trump’s Mexican border wall</a> in October, shocking some Democrats. The decision drew instant criticism from Lee, who urged White House to reverse course in a <a href="https://twitter.com/RepBarbaraLee/status/1710414901540249693">tweet</a>.

Lee, Schiff and Porter all agreed a generic border wall is ineffective in response to CalMatters’ questionnaire this month. Schiff and Porter both advocated for increased use of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ohchr.org/en/stories/2023/10/digital-technologies-borders-threat-people-move">detection technologies</a>&nbsp;at the border.

Lee, Schiff and Porter all agreed a generic border wall is ineffective in response to CalMatters’ questionnaire this month. Schiff and Porter both advocated for increased use of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ohchr.org/en/stories/2023/10/digital-technologies-borders-threat-people-move">detection technologies</a>&nbsp;at the border.

Porter, however, said some site-specific barriers do work, “for example, in dangerous areas where the lives of migrants and U.S. Customs and Border Protection personnel are at risk when there are unauthorized crossings and search and rescue missions.”

Porter, however, said some site-specific barriers do work, “for example, in dangerous areas where the lives of migrants and U.S. Customs and Border Protection personnel are at risk when there are unauthorized crossings and search and rescue missions.”

Of the three Democrats, Lee appears to be the most staunch critic of allocating more funds to federal border patrol agencies.

Of the three Democrats, Lee appears to be the most staunch critic of allocating more funds to federal border patrol agencies.

In 2019, Lee voted against <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/3401/actions">authorizing a $4.6 billion humanitarian aid and security funding package</a> at the southern border, while Schiff and Porter voted in favor. The package—backed by <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2019/06/27/us/politics/border-funding-immigration.html">Republicans and moderate Democrats</a>—passed the House without the stronger protections in migrant facilities that <a href="https://progressives.house.gov/press-releases?ID=3D035C49-48BA-4150-801C-9B341B375B28">House progressives</a> had supported.

In 2019, Lee voted against <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/3401/actions">authorizing a $4.6 billion humanitarian aid and security funding package</a> at the southern border, while Schiff and Porter voted in favor. The package—backed by <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2019/06/27/us/politics/border-funding-immigration.html">Republicans and moderate Democrats</a>—passed the House without the stronger protections in migrant facilities that <a href="https://progressives.house.gov/press-releases?ID=3D035C49-48BA-4150-801C-9B341B375B28">House progressives</a> had supported.

Lee called for a 50% budget cut for the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol in statements to CalMatters. Funding for the Department of Homeland Security, she said, would be better spent on “meaningful immigration reform.”

Lee called for a 50% budget cut for the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol in statements to CalMatters. Funding for the Department of Homeland Security, she said, would be better spent on “meaningful immigration reform.”

“ICE is rotten to the core,” Lee said in response to the CalMatters questionnaire. She is the only Senate candidate to have voted against creating the agency in 2002, when Schiff—then in his first term—supported it.

“ICE is rotten to the core,” Lee said in response to the CalMatters questionnaire. She is the only Senate candidate to have voted against creating the agency in 2002, when Schiff—then in his first term—supported it.

Porter told CalMatters she generally does not support additional funding for the agency but said she wants border patrol employees to “receive pay commensurate with their work” to help “recruit a workforce that can meet the needs of our border communities.”

Porter told CalMatters she generally does not support additional funding for the agency but said she wants border patrol employees to “receive pay commensurate with their work” to help “recruit a workforce that can meet the needs of our border communities.”

Schiff said Congress should provide aid to border communities and increase resources and personnel at ports of entry to help handle an influx of asylum seekers.

Schiff said Congress should provide aid to border communities and increase resources and personnel at ports of entry to help handle an influx of asylum seekers.

The top two Republicans—Garvey and Early—both support the border wall, additional funding for border patrol agents and tightened restrictions on border entries. Both said the nation should prioritize immigration applications from people legally present in the United States, and both oppose offering undocumented immigrants unemployment benefits.

The top two Republicans—Garvey and Early—both support the border wall, additional funding for border patrol agents and tightened restrictions on border entries. Both said the nation should prioritize immigration applications from people legally present in the United States, and both oppose offering undocumented immigrants unemployment benefits.

Early argued he supports a path to citizenship for “illegal immigrants who have enlisted in and participated honorably in our military.” Currently, noncitizens can only join the military if they are legal permanent residents, but a Democrats-backed bill in Congress would <a href="https://rollcall.com/2022/09/29/bill-would-allow-dreamers-to-join-the-military-become-citizens/">allow undocumented DREAMers</a> to serve in the military.

Early argued he supports a path to citizenship for “illegal immigrants who have enlisted in and participated honorably in our military.” Currently, noncitizens can only join the military if they are legal permanent residents, but a Democrats-backed bill in Congress would <a href="https://rollcall.com/2022/09/29/bill-would-allow-dreamers-to-join-the-military-become-citizens/">allow undocumented DREAMers</a> to serve in the military.

Garvey&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/newsletter/steve-garvey-us-senate-campaign/">visited the Mexico border as one of his first campaign events</a>&nbsp;last month and said he wants to complete the wall.

Garvey&nbsp;<a href="https://calmatters.org/newsletter/steve-garvey-us-senate-campaign/">visited the Mexico border as one of his first campaign events</a>&nbsp;last month and said he wants to complete the wall.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-crime-and-guns">Crime and Guns</h2>

On this topic, the Republican and Democratic candidates seem to share some common ground.

On this topic, the Republican and Democratic candidates seem to share some common ground.

They have all stressed the need to invest in mental health services as well as policing to address crime, but the devil’s in the details.

They have all stressed the need to invest in mental health services as well as policing to address crime, but the devil’s in the details.

The three Democrats want more funding to reform policing methods. They all voted for&nbsp;<a href="https://clerk.house.gov/Votes/2022486">de-escalation training</a>&nbsp;for police, more federal dollars for&nbsp;<a href="https://clerk.house.gov/Votes/2022453">violence intervention</a>&nbsp;initiatives and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/1280/cosponsors">restricting police use of chokeholds</a>&nbsp;after George Floyd’s death at the hands of a Minneapolis police officer in 2020.

The three Democrats want more funding to reform policing methods. They all voted for&nbsp;<a href="https://clerk.house.gov/Votes/2022486">de-escalation training</a>&nbsp;for police, more federal dollars for&nbsp;<a href="https://clerk.house.gov/Votes/2022453">violence intervention</a>&nbsp;initiatives and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/1280/cosponsors">restricting police use of chokeholds</a>&nbsp;after George Floyd’s death at the hands of a Minneapolis police officer in 2020.

Garvey and Early’s campaigns called for more funding for police departments and law enforcement officers, as well as the need to secure the southern border.

Garvey and Early’s campaigns called for more funding for police departments and law enforcement officers, as well as the need to secure the southern border.

All three Democrats support boosting funding for mental health treatment programs. Lee—arguing poverty is the root cause of crime—believes raising the minimum wage, expanding access to health care and legalizing marijuana will address the “structural problems” that lead to criminal acts, her campaign says.

All three Democrats support boosting funding for mental health treatment programs. Lee—arguing poverty is the root cause of crime—believes raising the minimum wage, expanding access to health care and legalizing marijuana will address the “structural problems” that lead to criminal acts, her campaign says.

Porter’s campaign championed her <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/8542">Mental Health Justice Act</a>—a 2022 bill to give grants to governments to recruit and train mental health professionals to respond to emergency calls. Schiff and Lee both voted for the measure.

Porter’s campaign championed her <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/8542">Mental Health Justice Act</a>—a 2022 bill to give grants to governments to recruit and train mental health professionals to respond to emergency calls. Schiff and Lee both voted for the measure.

Garvey’s campaign said he also supports funding to treat mental health problems and drug addiction, arguing they often contribute to gun violence and homelessness. Early, via a campaign spokesperson, advocated for a “rebuild” of the nation’s mental health system “that allows for the severely mentally ill to be permanently housed and cared for,” arguing that services were “decimated” in the 1960s—when <a href="https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2017/07/06/535608442/architecture-of-an-asylum-tracks-history-of-u-s-treatment-of-mental-illness">people were discharged from institutions</a> and placed in community-based care centers amid the civil rights movement.

Garvey’s campaign said he also supports funding to treat mental health problems and drug addiction, arguing they often contribute to gun violence and homelessness. Early, via a campaign spokesperson, advocated for a “rebuild” of the nation’s mental health system “that allows for the severely mentally ill to be permanently housed and cared for,” arguing that services were “decimated” in the 1960s—when <a href="https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2017/07/06/535608442/architecture-of-an-asylum-tracks-history-of-u-s-treatment-of-mental-illness">people were discharged from institutions</a> and placed in community-based care centers amid the civil rights movement.

On gun policies, Garvey supports “common-sense measures” such as pre-sale background checks and an assault weapon ban—something mainly supported by Democrats, according to his campaign. “We can keep guns out of the hands of criminals while also protecting Second Amendment rights,” his campaign said in a response to CalMatters’ questions.

On gun policies, Garvey supports “common-sense measures” such as pre-sale background checks and an assault weapon ban—something mainly supported by Democrats, according to his campaign. “We can keep guns out of the hands of criminals while also protecting Second Amendment rights,” his campaign said in a response to CalMatters’ questions.

The candidates are otherwise split along party lines. For example, all three Democrats oppose the federal death penalty, while Republicans argue the opposite.

The candidates are otherwise split along party lines. For example, all three Democrats oppose the federal death penalty, while Republicans argue the opposite.

But there are nuanced differences, especially among Democrats. They all voted against legislation to permanently raise fentanyl-related drugs to the highest class of illegal substances—a GOP-led bill <a href="https://www.axios.com/2023/05/23/biden-fentanyl-bill-call-congress-gop">Biden urged Congress</a> to pass. Lee, however, was the only candidate to <a href="https://projects.propublica.org/represent/votes/116/house/2/32">vote against</a> even temporarily doing so.

But there are nuanced differences, especially among Democrats. They all voted against legislation to permanently raise fentanyl-related drugs to the highest class of illegal substances—a GOP-led bill <a href="https://www.axios.com/2023/05/23/biden-fentanyl-bill-call-congress-gop">Biden urged Congress</a> to pass. Lee, however, was the only candidate to <a href="https://projects.propublica.org/represent/votes/116/house/2/32">vote against</a> even temporarily doing so.

Schiff, a former prosecutor in Los Angeles, has the most controversial track record on criminal justice issues due to his <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/02/11/adam-schiff-california-attorney-general/">past support for tough-on-crime policies</a>.

Schiff, a former prosecutor in Los Angeles, has the most controversial track record on criminal justice issues due to his <a href="https://theintercept.com/2021/02/11/adam-schiff-california-attorney-general/">past support for tough-on-crime policies</a>.

Schiff was among 48 Democrats to support the <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/115/actions?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22thin+blue+line+act+of+2017%22%7D">Thin Blue Line Act</a> in 2017 to apply the federal death penalty to cop killers—something Early supports. Schiff has since <a href="https://twitter.com/RepAdamSchiff/status/1490369700601212928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1490369700601212928%7Ctwgr%5Ea73eb825c0723239ad58811751698dd9a6af64d5%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fschiff.house.gov%2Fissues%2Fcriminal-justice-reform-and-public-safety">publicly spoken against</a> the sentence. In his campaign response to CalMatters, Schiff credited his change of heart to “technological advancements” that revealed “deep flaws” with the death penalty and a “disproportionate application” of the sentence on people of color.

Schiff was among 48 Democrats to support the <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/115/actions?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22thin+blue+line+act+of+2017%22%7D">Thin Blue Line Act</a> in 2017 to apply the federal death penalty to cop killers—something Early supports. Schiff has since <a href="https://twitter.com/RepAdamSchiff/status/1490369700601212928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1490369700601212928%7Ctwgr%5Ea73eb825c0723239ad58811751698dd9a6af64d5%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fschiff.house.gov%2Fissues%2Fcriminal-justice-reform-and-public-safety">publicly spoken against</a> the sentence. In his campaign response to CalMatters, Schiff credited his change of heart to “technological advancements” that revealed “deep flaws” with the death penalty and a “disproportionate application” of the sentence on people of color.

As a state senator, Schiff authored legislation to crack down on juveniles, including a bill to create yearlong “boot camps” for teenagers <a href="http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/pub/99-00/bill/sen/sb_1901-1950/sb_1937_bill_20000224_introduced.pdf">found in possession of marijuana</a> at school and another to <a href="http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/pub/97-98/bill/sen/sb_1251-1300/sb_1293_bill_19970228_introduced.html">try kids 14 years and older</a> as adults if they commit murder or rape.

As a state senator, Schiff authored legislation to crack down on juveniles, including a bill to create yearlong “boot camps” for teenagers <a href="http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/pub/99-00/bill/sen/sb_1901-1950/sb_1937_bill_20000224_introduced.pdf">found in possession of marijuana</a> at school and another to <a href="http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/pub/97-98/bill/sen/sb_1251-1300/sb_1293_bill_19970228_introduced.html">try kids 14 years and older</a> as adults if they commit murder or rape.

In Congress, he introduced legislation in <a href="https://schiff.house.gov/news/press-releases/schiff-introduces-bill-to-equalize-funding-for-prevention-and-suppression-of-crime">2009</a> to <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/111th-congress/house-bill/1568">increase funding</a> for a <a href="https://theappeal.org/community-policing-is-not-the-answer/">controversial</a> program to place more cops in communities, supported language to exclude asylum seekers and immigrants from <a href="https://www.vice.com/en/article/bv8z7q/surveillance-hawks-sabotaged-a-vote-to-stop-the-fbi-from-collecting-your-internet-history">privacy protections</a> and voted for the Protect and Serve Act in 2018 to impose stricter penalties on assaulting law enforcement officers, which most Democrats voted for. Lee voted against both measures.

In Congress, he introduced legislation in <a href="https://schiff.house.gov/news/press-releases/schiff-introduces-bill-to-equalize-funding-for-prevention-and-suppression-of-crime">2009</a> to <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/111th-congress/house-bill/1568">increase funding</a> for a <a href="https://theappeal.org/community-policing-is-not-the-answer/">controversial</a> program to place more cops in communities, supported language to exclude asylum seekers and immigrants from <a href="https://www.vice.com/en/article/bv8z7q/surveillance-hawks-sabotaged-a-vote-to-stop-the-fbi-from-collecting-your-internet-history">privacy protections</a> and voted for the Protect and Serve Act in 2018 to impose stricter penalties on assaulting law enforcement officers, which most Democrats voted for. Lee voted against both measures.

Schiff’s record irked criminal justice activists, who in a <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/19y5-6X1ynpObhHbREItyCTBkKw2k-naR41rVlZsDOww/edit">2021 letter</a> urged Gov. Gavin Newsom not to appoint Schiff as the next state attorney general. He has since softened some of his positions on criminal justice. In February 2023, he said his viewpoint had changed since the 1990s. “I’ve learned that some of the policies of the ’90s didn’t work,” he told <a href="https://abc7news.com/rep-adam-schiif-dianne-feinstein-replacement-2024-senate-race-california-senator/12822152/">ABC7 last year</a>.

Schiff’s record irked criminal justice activists, who in a <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/19y5-6X1ynpObhHbREItyCTBkKw2k-naR41rVlZsDOww/edit">2021 letter</a> urged Gov. Gavin Newsom not to appoint Schiff as the next state attorney general. He has since softened some of his positions on criminal justice. In February 2023, he said his viewpoint had changed since the 1990s. “I’ve learned that some of the policies of the ’90s didn’t work,” he told <a href="https://abc7news.com/rep-adam-schiif-dianne-feinstein-replacement-2024-senate-race-california-senator/12822152/">ABC7 last year</a>.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-foreign-policy-and-defense">Foreign Policy and Defense</h2>

The issue of a cease-fire in the Gaza war highlights a key split among the three Democratic hopefuls.

The issue of a cease-fire in the Gaza war highlights a key split among the three Democratic hopefuls.

A day after the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel, Lee <a href="https://www.politico.com/news/2023/10/08/israel-california-senate-election-00120545">called for a permanent cease-fire</a> from the stage of a Senate candidate debate—one of the first members of Congress to do so. Schiff called for “unequivocal support” for Israel, while Porter cautioned against Islamophobia and mourned the lives lost on both sides.

A day after the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel, Lee <a href="https://www.politico.com/news/2023/10/08/israel-california-senate-election-00120545">called for a permanent cease-fire</a> from the stage of a Senate candidate debate—one of the first members of Congress to do so. Schiff called for “unequivocal support” for Israel, while Porter cautioned against Islamophobia and mourned the lives lost on both sides.

For months afterward, as the casualty numbers rose in Gaza, Schiff and Porter both called for a “humanitarian pause,” aligning with the Biden administration’s policy. But as <a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2023/11/california-senate-democrats/">calls for a permanent cease-fire</a> grew, Porter shifted her stance in a Dec. 18 statement, calling for a “<a href="https://porter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=585">lasting bilateral ceasefire</a>” that “brings remaining hostages home, secures Israel’s safety, removes Hamas from operational control of Gaza, and invests in creating a better economic and political architecture for Palestinians in Gaza.”

For months afterward, as the casualty numbers rose in Gaza, Schiff and Porter both called for a “humanitarian pause,” aligning with the Biden administration’s policy. But as <a href="https://calmatters.org/politics/2023/11/california-senate-democrats/">calls for a permanent cease-fire</a> grew, Porter shifted her stance in a Dec. 18 statement, calling for a “<a href="https://porter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=585">lasting bilateral ceasefire</a>” that “brings remaining hostages home, secures Israel’s safety, removes Hamas from operational control of Gaza, and invests in creating a better economic and political architecture for Palestinians in Gaza.”

When asked to explain why she shifted her stance, Porter’s campaign pointed to her Dec. 18 statement, in which she seemed to suggest Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s rejection of Palestinian governance of Gaza was the reason.

When asked to explain why she shifted her stance, Porter’s campaign pointed to her Dec. 18 statement, in which she seemed to suggest Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s rejection of Palestinian governance of Gaza was the reason.

“His remarks and actions necessitate tough conversations with our ally Israel about its long-term strategy and among U.S. policymakers about our approach in the Middle East,” she said in the statement.

“His remarks and actions necessitate tough conversations with our ally Israel about its long-term strategy and among U.S. policymakers about our approach in the Middle East,” she said in the statement.

Schiff, however, has stood by his initial position, arguing that a permanent cease-fire would “perpetuate Hamas terrorist control of Gaza,” according to his campaign.

Schiff, however, has stood by his initial position, arguing that a permanent cease-fire would “perpetuate Hamas terrorist control of Gaza,” according to his campaign.

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