Han Li

For Bill Jackson, a Republican education consultant in San Francisco, voting for a moderate Democrat has become his go-to compromise in local elections.

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For Bill Jackson, a Republican education consultant in San Francisco, voting for a moderate Democrat has become his go-to compromise in local elections.

&#8220;Really, what we want is a Republican mayor,” Jackson said. “But we don&#8217;t have a realistic candidate.&#8221;

"Really, what we want is a Republican mayor,” Jackson said. “But we don't have a realistic candidate."

&#8220;Really, what we want is a Republican mayor,” Jackson said. “But we don&#8217;t have a realistic candidate.&#8221;

Jackson isn’t alone. In the deep blue San Francisco where 64% of registered voters are Democratic Party members, all five top candidates for mayor—incumbent Mayor London Breed, Supervisors Aaron Peskin and Ahsha Safaí, former mayor Mark Farrell and nonprofit founder Daniel Lurie—are dyed-in-the-wool Democrats.

Jackson isn’t alone. In the deep blue San Francisco where 64% of registered voters are Democratic Party members, all five top candidates for mayor—incumbent Mayor London Breed, Supervisors Aaron Peskin and Ahsha Safaí, former mayor Mark Farrell and nonprofit founder Daniel Lurie—are dyed-in-the-wool Democrats.

Bill Jackson sits on his couch with campaign literature surrounding his coffee table in Noe Valley on Friday, June 21, 2024. Jackson is a Republican education consultant and co-founder of the moderate-leaning Briones Society in San Francisco.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20240606-gopmayorrace-tv1297.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man in a dark suit sits on a beige sofa in a well-lit living room, with campaign posters spread out on the coffee table in front of him." class="wp-image-285246"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Bill Jackson, a Republican education consultant, says he&#8217;ll back a moderate Democrat in the mayor&#8217;s race.</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20240606-gopmayorrace-tv1297.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man in a dark suit sits on a beige sofa in a well-lit living room, with campaign posters spread out on the coffee table in front of him." class="wp-image-285246"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Bill Jackson, a Republican education consultant, says he'll back a moderate Democrat in the mayor's race.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20240606-gopmayorrace-tv1297.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man in a dark suit sits on a beige sofa in a well-lit living room, with campaign posters spread out on the coffee table in front of him." class="wp-image-285246"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Bill Jackson, a Republican education consultant, says he&#8217;ll back a moderate Democrat in the mayor&#8217;s race.</figcaption></figure>

Bill Jackson shows off his American and California flag pin in his home office in Noe Valley on Friday, June 21, 2024. Jackson is a Republican education consultant and co-founder of the moderate-leaning Briones Society in San Francisco.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20240606-gopmayorrace-tv1308-1.jpg?w=2500" alt="A hand is adjusting a lapel pin that features crossed American and Californian flags, attached to a dark-colored blazer worn over a white shirt." class="wp-image-285263"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">With the mayor&#8217;s race expected to be close, the city&#8217;s relatively few Republicans could play a role in choosing the winner.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20240606-gopmayorrace-tv1308-1.jpg?w=2500" alt="A hand is adjusting a lapel pin that features crossed American and Californian flags, attached to a dark-colored blazer worn over a white shirt." class="wp-image-285263"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">With the mayor's race expected to be close, the city's relatively few Republicans could play a role in choosing the winner.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20240606-gopmayorrace-tv1308-1.jpg?w=2500" alt="A hand is adjusting a lapel pin that features crossed American and Californian flags, attached to a dark-colored blazer worn over a white shirt." class="wp-image-285263"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">With the mayor&#8217;s race expected to be close, the city&#8217;s relatively few Republicans could play a role in choosing the winner.</figcaption></figure>

This reality leaves Republicans like Jackson with a tough choice between supporting a conservative with no chance of winning or a viable Democrat whose policies they can tolerate. This year’s mayoral race, expected to be highly competitive, could be decided by just a few thousand votes, meaning that local Republicans could play a vital role in choosing the winner.

This reality leaves Republicans like Jackson with a tough choice between supporting a conservative with no chance of winning or a viable Democrat whose policies they can tolerate. This year’s mayoral race, expected to be highly competitive, could be decided by just a few thousand votes, meaning that local Republicans could play a vital role in choosing the winner.

However, there’s a split within the small world of San Francisco Republicans. Pragmatists who will vote for Democrats appear to be coalescing around Farrell and Lurie, while those who strictly vote Republican won’t consider any Democrats at all.&nbsp;

However, there’s a split within the small world of San Francisco Republicans. Pragmatists who will vote for Democrats appear to be coalescing around Farrell and Lurie, while those who strictly vote Republican won’t consider any Democrats at all.&nbsp;

&#8220;I am a moderate Republican,” Jackson said. “It&#8217;s important that one of the moderate Democrats win.&#8221;

"I am a moderate Republican,” Jackson said. “It's important that one of the moderate Democrats win."

&#8220;I am a moderate Republican,” Jackson said. “It&#8217;s important that one of the moderate Democrats win.&#8221;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-farrell-lurie-stand-out">Farrell, Lurie stand out</h2>

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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-farrell-lurie-stand-out">Farrell, Lurie stand out</h2>

Jackson, who co-founded the moderate-leaning <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/30/san-francisco-republican-party-briones-society-candidates-rccc/">Briones Society</a>, represents the centrist wing of his party. He told The Standard that he’s considering voting for Farrell and Lurie as his top two choices, saying Breed’s five years as mayor have been unimpressive.&nbsp;

This group of San Francisco Republicans wants to revive their party in 2024

Jackson, who co-founded the moderate-leaning <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/30/san-francisco-republican-party-briones-society-candidates-rccc/">Briones Society</a>, represents the centrist wing of his party. He told The Standard that he’s considering voting for Farrell and Lurie as his top two choices, saying Breed’s five years as mayor have been unimpressive.&nbsp;

Among the top five mayoral candidates, Farrell, Breed and Lurie are considered moderate Democrats, while Peskin is progressive. Safaí has taken moderate positions on some matters but has tacked <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/22/ahsha-safai-mayor-progressive/">progressive in his mayoral campaign</a>.

As center lane in mayor&#8217;s race gets crowded, one candidate tacks to the left

Among the top five mayoral candidates, Farrell, Breed and Lurie are considered moderate Democrats, while Peskin is progressive. Safaí has taken moderate positions on some matters but has tacked <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/22/ahsha-safai-mayor-progressive/">progressive in his mayoral campaign</a>.

Five mayoral candidates participate in the debate hosted by Manny Yekutiel and Heather Knight at Sydney Goldstein Theater in Hayes Valley in San Francisco, Calif. on Wednesday, June 12, 2024.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20240613mayordebate6.jpg?w=2500" alt="Five people stand behind podiums on a stage, participating in what appears to be a debate or panel discussion." class="wp-image-283134"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">All five leading candidates for San Francisco mayor are Democrats, leaving Republicans to choose between a longshot conservative or a moderate Democrat. </figcaption></figure>

Other Republicans share Jackson&#8217;s strategy: Since there’s no viable Republican candidate, they’ll back a moderate Democrat in San Francisco to block “Mayor Peskin,” Jackson said.

Other Republicans share Jackson's strategy: Since there’s no viable Republican candidate, they’ll back a moderate Democrat in San Francisco to block “Mayor Peskin,” Jackson said.

Other Republicans share Jackson&#8217;s strategy: Since there’s no viable Republican candidate, they’ll back a moderate Democrat in San Francisco to block “Mayor Peskin,” Jackson said.

Nick Berg, a property management firm executive and a Briones Society member, is a former Democrat who switched parties over frustration with San Francisco’s crime, homelessness and drug crises. He said he plans to rank the three moderate Democrats on his ballot.

Nick Berg, a property management firm executive and a Briones Society member, is a former Democrat who switched parties over frustration with San Francisco’s crime, homelessness and drug crises. He said he plans to rank the three moderate Democrats on his ballot.

“I haven’t decided the order,” Berg said.

“I haven’t decided the order,” Berg said.

Jennifer Yan, a Briones Society member and the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/20/san-francisco-asian-american-republican-rccc/">top winner of the local Republican Party’s board election in March</a>, said she also preferred Farrell and Lurie. Yan said Farrell’s ideas, such as cracking down on crime and reopening Market Street to cars, are more &#8220;in touch&#8221; with&nbsp; moderate Chinese voters. Lurie has a friendly personality, she added.

San Francisco GOP&#8217;s last hope? Chinese Americans win big in party elections

Jennifer Yan, a Briones Society member and the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/20/san-francisco-asian-american-republican-rccc/">top winner of the local Republican Party’s board election in March</a>, said she also preferred Farrell and Lurie. Yan said Farrell’s ideas, such as cracking down on crime and reopening Market Street to cars, are more "in touch" with&nbsp; moderate Chinese voters. Lurie has a friendly personality, she added.

Jennifer Yan, a Briones Society member and the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/20/san-francisco-asian-american-republican-rccc/">top winner of the local Republican Party’s board election in March</a>, said she also preferred Farrell and Lurie. Yan said Farrell’s ideas, such as cracking down on crime and reopening Market Street to cars, are more &#8220;in touch&#8221; with&nbsp; moderate Chinese voters. Lurie has a friendly personality, she added.

Rodney Leong, a vice-chair of the Republican party, said he voted for Breed before but this time Lurie and Farrell may be his top two choices. He also said it&#8217;s not unusual for San Francisco Republicans to vote for Democrats.

Rodney Leong, a vice-chair of the Republican party, said he voted for Breed before but this time Lurie and Farrell may be his top two choices. He also said it's not unusual for San Francisco Republicans to vote for Democrats.

Rodney Leong, a vice-chair of the Republican party, said he voted for Breed before but this time Lurie and Farrell may be his top two choices. He also said it&#8217;s not unusual for San Francisco Republicans to vote for Democrats.

&#8220;It&#8217;s a non-partisan office, so we can endorse anyone we want,&#8221; Leong said. &#8220;It&#8217;s about what the candidate brings to the table.&#8221;

"It's a non-partisan office, so we can endorse anyone we want," Leong said. "It's about what the candidate brings to the table."

&#8220;It&#8217;s a non-partisan office, so we can endorse anyone we want,&#8221; Leong said. &#8220;It&#8217;s about what the candidate brings to the table.&#8221;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-awkward-dance-with-republican-voters">An awkward dance with Republican voters</h2>

Jason McDaniel, an associate professor of political science at San Francisco State University, said that both Lurie and Farrell may have some selling points for Republicans.

Jason McDaniel, an associate professor of political science at San Francisco State University, said that both Lurie and Farrell may have some selling points for Republicans.

For example, Lurie, who has framed himself as a City Hall “outsider,” could appeal to some long-marginalized Republicans. Farrell’s image as a tough-on-crime businessman could make him an acceptable choice by some Republicans, too.

For example, Lurie, who has framed himself as a City Hall “outsider,” could appeal to some long-marginalized Republicans. Farrell’s image as a tough-on-crime businessman could make him an acceptable choice by some Republicans, too.

Mayor London Breed and Daniel Lurie participates in the debate hosted by Manny Yekutiel and Heather Knight at Sydney Goldstein Theater in Hayes Valley in San Francisco, Calif. on Wednesday, June 12, 2024.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20240613mayordebate20.jpg?w=2500" alt="Two people, a man in a suit and tie, and a woman in a blue outfit, are standing behind podiums on a stage, speaking, against a black background." class="wp-image-283139"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayor London Breed and Daniel Lurie are both considered moderate Democrats.</figcaption></figure>

Mayoral candidate Mark Farrell addresses the crowd at the second mayoral debate, held at UC Law in San Francisco on Monday, June 17th, 2024.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20240614-secondmayoraldebate-ac-461.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man in a dark suit and white shirt is giving a speech, gesturing with one hand up. A flag is seen in the background, and a presentation slide is partially visible." class="wp-image-284212"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayoral candidate Mark Farrell, a tough-on-crime businessman, may hold appeal for local Republican voters.</figcaption></figure>

McDaniel added that in a close race, the city’s Republican voters could have an influence on the eventual winner. However, turnout in November is likely to be high and he expects campaigns to focus largely on liberal or left-leaning voters.

McDaniel added that in a close race, the city’s Republican voters could have an influence on the eventual winner. However, turnout in November is likely to be high and he expects campaigns to focus largely on liberal or left-leaning voters.

“If any of the campaigns are targeting [Republican] voters, that&#8217;s probably not a waste of money,” McDaniel said, “but it&#8217;s a relatively low cost-benefit ratio.”

“If any of the campaigns are targeting [Republican] voters, that's probably not a waste of money,” McDaniel said, “but it's a relatively low cost-benefit ratio.”

“If any of the campaigns are targeting [Republican] voters, that&#8217;s probably not a waste of money,” McDaniel said, “but it&#8217;s a relatively low cost-benefit ratio.”

In a city where Republicans haven’t won any major races for decades, top Democrats appear to have little interest in building cross-party support. In San Francisco politics, association with Republicans is a common line of attack.&nbsp;

In a city where Republicans haven’t won any major races for decades, top Democrats appear to have little interest in building cross-party support. In San Francisco politics, association with Republicans is a common line of attack.&nbsp;

Asked whether they would seek the Republican Party’s endorsement, Breed, Lurie and Farrell responded similarly, saying they wouldn’t seek the endorsement while leaving room to entertain support from voters across the political spectrum.&nbsp;

Asked whether they would seek the Republican Party’s endorsement, Breed, Lurie and Farrell responded similarly, saying they wouldn’t seek the endorsement while leaving room to entertain support from voters across the political spectrum.&nbsp;

Breed’s campaign said she “can find common ground and work with anyone,” while Farrell’s campaign said he will “be a mayor that represents all San Franciscans and our shared values.” Lurie’s campaign said he “has always been about bringing people into the fold, not pushing them away.”

Breed’s campaign said she “can find common ground and work with anyone,” while Farrell’s campaign said he will “be a mayor that represents all San Franciscans and our shared values.” Lurie’s campaign said he “has always been about bringing people into the fold, not pushing them away.”

Peskin’s campaign said he won’t seek Republican support. Safaí’s campaign didn’t respond by press time.

Peskin’s campaign said he won’t seek Republican support. Safaí’s campaign didn’t respond by press time.

Although the Briones Society may recommend one or several Democrats for mayor— likely Farrell or Lurie as top choices—it’s less likely that the San Francisco Republican Party will officially endorse a Democrat for mayor. Briones Society <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/05/san-francisco-election-republican-county-central-committee/">swept the March election</a> for the Republican County Central Committee, but they will take office in 2025.

San Francisco Republicans elect new party leadership

Although the Briones Society may recommend one or several Democrats for mayor— likely Farrell or Lurie as top choices—it’s less likely that the San Francisco Republican Party will officially endorse a Democrat for mayor. Briones Society <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/05/san-francisco-election-republican-county-central-committee/">swept the March election</a> for the Republican County Central Committee, but they will take office in 2025.

John Dennis, the party’s current chair, said he hasn&#8217;t made up his mind yet but doubted that the group will endorse a Democrat. He predicted the party will endorse no one, not even a Republican candidate.

John Dennis, the party’s current chair, said he hasn't made up his mind yet but doubted that the group will endorse a Democrat. He predicted the party will endorse no one, not even a Republican candidate.

John Dennis, the party’s current chair, said he hasn&#8217;t made up his mind yet but doubted that the group will endorse a Democrat. He predicted the party will endorse no one, not even a Republican candidate.

Both the local Republican Party and Briones Society will start their endorsement process in July or August.

Both the local Republican Party and Briones Society will start their endorsement process in July or August.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-loyal-to-the-party">Loyal to the party</h2>

Although moderate-leaning Republicans may back Democrats, some of the city’s right-wing loyalists are staying with the party lines.

Although moderate-leaning Republicans may back Democrats, some of the city’s right-wing loyalists are staying with the party lines.

Currently, among 13 qualified candidates, the only Republican with some level of name recognition is Ellen Lee Zhou, a far-right Trump supporter.

Currently, among 13 qualified candidates, the only Republican with some level of name recognition is Ellen Lee Zhou, a far-right Trump supporter.

Zhou, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/11/this-far-right-maga-style-mayoral-candidate-is-back/">a potential wild card in the race</a>, won 24,667 first-choice votes in 2019 when she ran for mayor, about 14% of the total. She hasn&#8217;t decided who will be her second and third choices, but said Lurie may be better at reforming City Hall and cast the others as career politicians.

This far-right, MAGA candidate could decide the race for San Francisco mayor

Zhou, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/11/this-far-right-maga-style-mayoral-candidate-is-back/">a potential wild card in the race</a>, won 24,667 first-choice votes in 2019 when she ran for mayor, about 14% of the total. She hasn't decided who will be her second and third choices, but said Lurie may be better at reforming City Hall and cast the others as career politicians.

Zhou, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/11/this-far-right-maga-style-mayoral-candidate-is-back/">a potential wild card in the race</a>, won 24,667 first-choice votes in 2019 when she ran for mayor, about 14% of the total. She hasn&#8217;t decided who will be her second and third choices, but said Lurie may be better at reforming City Hall and cast the others as career politicians.

Ellen Lee Zhou announces her bid for SF Mayor at a dinner she hosted on Sunday, April 7, 2024 in San Francisco, Calif.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/feeatured_20240411-ellenleezhoumayor.jpg?w=2500" alt="A person in a white suit and red cap stands in a festive room full of people wearing similar caps, facing a stage with a speaker." class="wp-image-266148"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ellen Lee Zhou, a MAGA Republican, has little chance of winning but could play spoiler in the mayor&#8217;s race.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/feeatured_20240411-ellenleezhoumayor.jpg?w=2500" alt="A person in a white suit and red cap stands in a festive room full of people wearing similar caps, facing a stage with a speaker." class="wp-image-266148"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ellen Lee Zhou, a MAGA Republican, has little chance of winning but could play spoiler in the mayor's race.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/feeatured_20240411-ellenleezhoumayor.jpg?w=2500" alt="A person in a white suit and red cap stands in a festive room full of people wearing similar caps, facing a stage with a speaker." class="wp-image-266148"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ellen Lee Zhou, a MAGA Republican, has little chance of winning but could play spoiler in the mayor&#8217;s race.</figcaption></figure>

Arjun Sodhani brought a hat his friend made to a San Francisco Young Republicans event held at Trinity Bar in San Francisco on Thursday, May 30, 2024. 

San Francisco Young Republicans gather after former President Donald J. Trump, and presumptive 2024 Republican nominee, was convicted on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in a case stemming from a payment that silenced a porn star.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/20240530-youngrepublicantrump-5.jpg?w=2500" alt="The image shows a red baseball cap with &quot;TRUMP&quot; in white letters, followed by &quot;Agenda 47 * Ask me about it&quot; embroidered underneath." class="wp-image-279861"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Republicans make up less than 8% of registered voters in San Francisco.</figcaption></figure>

Grace (Iok) Tse, a Chinese immigrant Republican voter and Sunset District resident, told The Standard that she’s voting for Zhou and won’t rank any Democrats.

Grace (Iok) Tse, a Chinese immigrant Republican voter and Sunset District resident, told The Standard that she’s voting for Zhou and won’t rank any Democrats.

“I won’t consider any Democrats,” she said in Cantonese. “It doesn’t matter if Zhou can win or not. We try our best.”

“I won’t consider any Democrats,” she said in Cantonese. “It doesn’t matter if Zhou can win or not. We try our best.”

Tse said that she used to support moderate Democrats but grew disillusioned, describing the differences among them as “old wine in a new bottle.”

Tse said that she used to support moderate Democrats but grew disillusioned, describing the differences among them as “old wine in a new bottle.”

Monika Rothenbuhler, the vice chair of the San Francisco Republican Party, described the five leading mayoral candidates as &#8220;the gang of five.&#8221;

Monika Rothenbuhler, the vice chair of the San Francisco Republican Party, described the five leading mayoral candidates as "the gang of five."

Monika Rothenbuhler, the vice chair of the San Francisco Republican Party, described the five leading mayoral candidates as &#8220;the gang of five.&#8221;

The Republican Party of San Francisco logo.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/final-21_MG_6586.jpg?w=2500" alt="The image shows the logo of the Republican Party of San Francisco. It features a red elephant with three white stars on a blue background, encircled by text." class="wp-image-205863"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Republican Party of San Francisco may end up endorsing no one in the mayor&#8217;s race.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/final-21_MG_6586.jpg?w=2500" alt="The image shows the logo of the Republican Party of San Francisco. It features a red elephant with three white stars on a blue background, encircled by text." class="wp-image-205863"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Republican Party of San Francisco may end up endorsing no one in the mayor's race.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/final-21_MG_6586.jpg?w=2500" alt="The image shows the logo of the Republican Party of San Francisco. It features a red elephant with three white stars on a blue background, encircled by text." class="wp-image-205863"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Republican Party of San Francisco may end up endorsing no one in the mayor&#8217;s race.</figcaption></figure>

&#8220;I will not vote for a Democrat,&#8221; Rothenbuhler said. &#8220;I will vote for Ellen.&#8221;

"I will not vote for a Democrat," Rothenbuhler said. "I will vote for Ellen."

&#8220;I will not vote for a Democrat,&#8221; Rothenbuhler said. &#8220;I will vote for Ellen.&#8221;

Rothenbuhler said she respects some of her fellow Republicans&#8217; choices to vote for the &#8220;least offensive&#8221; Democrats, and understands that the city&#8217;s ranked-choice voting allows her to vote for multiple choices, but isn’t making compromises on her partisan preference.

Rothenbuhler said she respects some of her fellow Republicans' choices to vote for the "least offensive" Democrats, and understands that the city's ranked-choice voting allows her to vote for multiple choices, but isn’t making compromises on her partisan preference.

Rothenbuhler said she respects some of her fellow Republicans&#8217; choices to vote for the &#8220;least offensive&#8221; Democrats, and understands that the city&#8217;s ranked-choice voting allows her to vote for multiple choices, but isn’t making compromises on her partisan preference.

Jacob Spangler, a 23-year-old San Francisco State University student and a leader of the campus Republican group, said he plans to vote for Zhou and is disappointed with the city’s divisive politics.

Jacob Spangler, a 23-year-old San Francisco State University student and a leader of the campus Republican group, said he plans to vote for Zhou and is disappointed with the city’s divisive politics.

&#8220;There&#8217;s not enough bipartisanship in the city,&#8221; Spangler said. &#8220;I understand some of our left-leaning members. However, why are we the ones to compromise?&#8221;

"There's not enough bipartisanship in the city," Spangler said. "I understand some of our left-leaning members. However, why are we the ones to compromise?"

&#8220;There&#8217;s not enough bipartisanship in the city,&#8221; Spangler said. &#8220;I understand some of our left-leaning members. However, why are we the ones to compromise?&#8221;

It&#8217;s nearly impossible that Democratic Party candidates will reach out to Zhou for a ranked-choice strategy, but Zhou extended an olive branch anyway.

It's nearly impossible that Democratic Party candidates will reach out to Zhou for a ranked-choice strategy, but Zhou extended an olive branch anyway.

It&#8217;s nearly impossible that Democratic Party candidates will reach out to Zhou for a ranked-choice strategy, but Zhou extended an olive branch anyway.

&#8220;If I win,&#8221; Zhou said, &#8220;I will hire all of them.&#8221;

"If I win," Zhou said, "I will hire all of them."

&#8220;If I win,&#8221; Zhou said, &#8220;I will hire all of them.&#8221;

Lurie and Farrell capture mayor’s race in one key demo: Republicans 

Gabe Greschler

If one were forced to choose a time to stare down the barrel of a nearly $1 billion budget deficit, Mayor London Breed would probably not choose this week.&nbsp;

If one were forced to choose a time to stare down the barrel of a nearly $1 billion budget deficit, Mayor London Breed would probably not choose this week.&nbsp;

On Friday, Breed is expected to release a budget that slashes spending in city departments. She needs to close a deficit amounting to <a href="https://www.sf.gov/sites/default/files/2024-03/March%20Joint%20Report%20Update%20FY%2024-25%20through%20FY%2027-28.pdf">about $789 million</a> over the next two fiscal years as the city faces daunting questions over the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/05/02/the-mid-market-faithful-life-inside-san-franciscos-office-dead-zone/">future of its downtown neighborhood and vacant office buildings</a> after a long stretch of sunny economic trends, a booming technology sector and hot real estate market.&nbsp;

The Mid-Market faithful: Life inside San Francisco’s office dead zone

On Friday, Breed is expected to release a budget that slashes spending in city departments. She needs to close a deficit amounting to <a href="https://www.sf.gov/sites/default/files/2024-03/March%20Joint%20Report%20Update%20FY%2024-25%20through%20FY%2027-28.pdf">about $789 million</a> over the next two fiscal years as the city faces daunting questions over the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/05/02/the-mid-market-faithful-life-inside-san-franciscos-office-dead-zone/">future of its downtown neighborhood and vacant office buildings</a> after a long stretch of sunny economic trends, a booming technology sector and hot real estate market.&nbsp;

It all comes at a less-than-convenient time for Breed, who could easily be booted from her job, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/05/13/san-francisco-mayor-race-poll-london-breed/">according to the latest polling figures</a>.&nbsp;

Breed is unpopular—but could still win reelection, new poll shows

It all comes at a less-than-convenient time for Breed, who could easily be booted from her job, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/05/13/san-francisco-mayor-race-poll-london-breed/">according to the latest polling figures</a>.&nbsp;

Mayor London Breed speaks at Pier 27 for her State of the City Address in San Francisco on Thursday, March 7, 2024. Breed’s speech came two days after an Election Day victory, when two of her ballot measures passed and the third leading.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/20240307-stateofthecity_jy_05-edited.jpg?w=2500" alt="A woman in a blue blazer speaks at a podium, with large windows and soft light in the background." class="wp-image-279268"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayor London Breed needs to close a substantial budget deficit while trying to convince voters she should keep her job.</figcaption></figure>

Details about Breed’s plan are still up in the air, but her opponents in the November race are ready to pounce.

Details about Breed’s plan are still up in the air, but her opponents in the November race are ready to pounce.

“Do San Franciscans believe they have gotten $2.5 billion worth of extra spending given the conditions on our streets?” said former Supervisor Mark Farrell, one of Breed’s moderate opponents, referring to the city’s homelessness spending. “I think not.”&nbsp;

“Do San Franciscans believe they have gotten $2.5 billion worth of extra spending given the conditions on our streets?” said former Supervisor Mark Farrell, one of Breed’s moderate opponents, referring to the city’s homelessness spending. “I think not.”&nbsp;

Nonprofit leader Daniel Lurie, another mayoral challenger, accused Breed of wasting “a decade of boom years.”&nbsp;

Nonprofit leader Daniel Lurie, another mayoral challenger, accused Breed of wasting “a decade of boom years.”&nbsp;

Lurie added, “That’s what happens when budgets are designed around political allegiances rather than achieving outcomes for San Franciscans.”

Lurie added, “That’s what happens when budgets are designed around political allegiances rather than achieving outcomes for San Franciscans.”

San Francisco Annual Budget

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Last year, despite signs of growing deficits, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/08/10/ask-the-standard-why-did-san-franciscos-budget-roughly-double-in-10-years/">the mayor passed a record $14.6 billion budget</a> and patched up the shortfall through Covid-related reimbursements and reserve funds. By October, however, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/11/san-francisco-mayor-orders-budget-cuts/">Breed warned</a> that the city was quickly falling into the red, ordering midyear budget cuts.&nbsp;

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Last year, despite signs of growing deficits, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/08/10/ask-the-standard-why-did-san-franciscos-budget-roughly-double-in-10-years/">the mayor passed a record $14.6 billion budget</a> and patched up the shortfall through Covid-related reimbursements and reserve funds. By October, however, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/11/san-francisco-mayor-orders-budget-cuts/">Breed warned</a> that the city was quickly falling into the red, ordering midyear budget cuts.&nbsp;

Ted Egan, the city’s chief economist, said that this year’s budget crisis is of a very different nature than the one San Francisco faced during the Great Recession.

Ted Egan, the city’s chief economist, said that this year’s budget crisis is of a very different nature than the one San Francisco faced during the Great Recession.

Though he remains confident about the future of San Francisco&#8217;s economy, work-from-home trends have remained stubbornly high, Egan said. That contributes to a troublesome new reality for the city as empty offices and a slow real estate market threaten tax revenues.

Though he remains confident about the future of San Francisco's economy, work-from-home trends have remained stubbornly high, Egan said. That contributes to a troublesome new reality for the city as empty offices and a slow real estate market threaten tax revenues.

Though he remains confident about the future of San Francisco&#8217;s economy, work-from-home trends have remained stubbornly high, Egan said. That contributes to a troublesome new reality for the city as empty offices and a slow real estate market threaten tax revenues.

“I don&#8217;t think this city has ever been in this kind of situation,” said Egan in an interview. “We are not seeing revenue weakness because of a recession. Or even an economic slowdown. We’re seeing it because there&#8217;s been a sudden shift in the demand for office work, which has led to weaknesses in our two major revenue streams, property tax and business tax.”

“I don't think this city has ever been in this kind of situation,” said Egan in an interview. “We are not seeing revenue weakness because of a recession. Or even an economic slowdown. We’re seeing it because there's been a sudden shift in the demand for office work, which has led to weaknesses in our two major revenue streams, property tax and business tax.”

“I don&#8217;t think this city has ever been in this kind of situation,” said Egan in an interview. “We are not seeing revenue weakness because of a recession. Or even an economic slowdown. We’re seeing it because there&#8217;s been a sudden shift in the demand for office work, which has led to weaknesses in our two major revenue streams, property tax and business tax.”

This year, Breed’s task comes with heightened political risks. Polling shows she is unpopular, with voters laying much of the blame for the city’s problems at the mayor’s feet.&nbsp;

This year, Breed’s task comes with heightened political risks. Polling shows she is unpopular, with voters laying much of the blame for the city’s problems at the mayor’s feet.&nbsp;

Mayor London Breed, left, and Board Supervisor Aaron Peskin, right, chat before the Board of Supervisors meeting in the Supervisors Chambers in City Hall, on March 7, 2023. Mayor Breed addressed the Board of Supervisors to approve more money to cover the overtime payroll for SFPD. | Justin Katigbak for The Standard

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/featured_20240506-businesstaxreform.jpg?w=2500" alt="A woman converses with a seated man; both are in a wood-paneled room with a US flag." class="wp-image-273492"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayor London Breed and Board Supervisor Aaron Peskin will likely spar over the proposed budget.</figcaption></figure>

“It is a tough needle to thread,” said Larry Gerston, professor emeritus of political science at San Jose State University, about the mayor’s political position. “There is no easy way to do it.”

“It is a tough needle to thread,” said Larry Gerston, professor emeritus of political science at San Jose State University, about the mayor’s political position. “There is no easy way to do it.”

Gerston said Breed could make a number of moves to cut spending while preserving her reelection prospects. The obvious one, he said, is keeping funding for police and firefighters intact, considering how important public safety has become in recent years.

Gerston said Breed could make a number of moves to cut spending while preserving her reelection prospects. The obvious one, he said, is keeping funding for police and firefighters intact, considering how important public safety has become in recent years.

Breed could also try to push some of the more painful cuts into the second year, according to Gerston. He added that the messaging behind the budget is also crucial, and Breed could benefit from conveying that there are other cities, <a href="https://www.dailynews.com/2024/05/23/l-a-city-councils-12-8-billion-budget-has-spending-cuts-but-avoids-layoffs/">like Los Angeles</a>, that are also having to tighten their belts.

Breed could also try to push some of the more painful cuts into the second year, according to Gerston. He added that the messaging behind the budget is also crucial, and Breed could benefit from conveying that there are other cities, <a href="https://www.dailynews.com/2024/05/23/l-a-city-councils-12-8-billion-budget-has-spending-cuts-but-avoids-layoffs/">like Los Angeles</a>, that are also having to tighten their belts.

Breed says street homelessness is down. Confused? You’re not alone

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Another obstacle for Breed is that two of her opponents in the mayor’s race—Supervisors Ahsha Safaí and Aaron Peskin—will play a role in getting the budget approved by the Board of Supervisors. In an often-contentious series of meetings, the board amends and approves the budget, sending it back to Breed for her signature.

Another obstacle for Breed is that two of her opponents in the mayor’s race—Supervisors Ahsha Safaí and Aaron Peskin—will play a role in getting the budget approved by the Board of Supervisors. In an often-contentious series of meetings, the board amends and approves the budget, sending it back to Breed for her signature.

Safaí has pressed the mayor to <a href="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/#search/han%40sfstandard.com/FMfcgzQVwnWSXnpFMlwpMFfJgHPdBRQc?projector=1&amp;messagePartId=0.1">keep millions of dollars in funding</a> for the Department of Children, Youth and Their Families intact. “If we’re really saying we’re about public safety, then we can’t skip and ignore programs like that,” he said in an interview.

Safaí has pressed the mayor to <a href="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/#search/han%40sfstandard.com/FMfcgzQVwnWSXnpFMlwpMFfJgHPdBRQc?projector=1&amp;messagePartId=0.1">keep millions of dollars in funding</a> for the Department of Children, Youth and Their Families intact. “If we’re really saying we’re about public safety, then we can’t skip and ignore programs like that,” he said in an interview.

Peskin’s campaign said the board president has a “track record” of leading the city through uncertain economic times.

Peskin’s campaign said the board president has a “track record” of leading the city through uncertain economic times.

“He believes we can preserve spending that helps those most in need by focusing on fiscally responsible savings that will enable the city to do more with less,” wrote spokesperson Kaitlyn Conway.

“He believes we can preserve spending that helps those most in need by focusing on fiscally responsible savings that will enable the city to do more with less,” wrote spokesperson Kaitlyn Conway.

Jeff Cretan, Breed’s spokesperson, said in an interview that the mayor has already made progress on the budget. Cretan <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/15/san-francisco-city-unions-labor-deal/">pointed to labor agreements with thousands of city employees</a> that may have avoided painful strikes along with a focus on public safety that Breed’s office says has helped clamp down on crime.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Jeff Cretan, Breed’s spokesperson, said in an interview that the mayor has already made progress on the budget. Cretan <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/15/san-francisco-city-unions-labor-deal/">pointed to labor agreements with thousands of city employees</a> that may have avoided painful strikes along with a focus on public safety that Breed’s office says has helped clamp down on crime.&nbsp;&nbsp;

San Francisco Police Department (SFPD) patrol vehicles park outside City Hall in San Francisco’s Civic Center neighborhood on Monday, April 22, 2024. While crime rates in San Francisco are falling across several categories, including burglaries, motor vehicle theft and larceny, voters are still largely unhappy with the state of the city--both factors that could impact the mayoral race during the upcoming November election.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/20240422_crimeisdown-me-1211.jpg?w=2376" alt="The image shows a grand domed building with intricate architecture in the background and two police vehicles labeled &quot;S.F.P.D.&quot; in the foreground." class="wp-image-269703"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Some of Mayor London Breed&#8217;s challengers in the November race, including nonprofit leader Daniel Lurie and former Supervisor Mark Farrell, are criticizing her for wasteful spending.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/20240422_crimeisdown-me-1211.jpg?w=2376" alt="The image shows a grand domed building with intricate architecture in the background and two police vehicles labeled &quot;S.F.P.D.&quot; in the foreground." class="wp-image-269703"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Some of Mayor London Breed's challengers in the November race, including nonprofit leader Daniel Lurie and former Supervisor Mark Farrell, are criticizing her for wasteful spending.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/20240422_crimeisdown-me-1211.jpg?w=2376" alt="The image shows a grand domed building with intricate architecture in the background and two police vehicles labeled &quot;S.F.P.D.&quot; in the foreground." class="wp-image-269703"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Some of Mayor London Breed&#8217;s challengers in the November race, including nonprofit leader Daniel Lurie and former Supervisor Mark Farrell, are criticizing her for wasteful spending.</figcaption></figure>

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