Han Li

With summer drawing to a close, election season is rapidly approaching. November’s ballot will be stuffed to an unprecedented degree due to a 2022 voter-approved charter amendment that combines odd- and even-year contests.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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<p>With summer drawing to a close, election season is rapidly approaching. November’s ballot will be stuffed to an unprecedented degree due to a 2022 voter-approved charter amendment that combines odd- and even-year contests.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

That means in addition to presidential and congressional races, San Franciscans will be choosing the mayor, district attorney, treasurer, school board commissioners, and more. There will also be more than two dozen state and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/12/san-francisco-ballot-november-2024/">local ballot measures</a>. Here&#8217;s what you need to know.

Brace yourself, San Francisco: November’s ballot will be massive

<p>That means in addition to presidential and congressional races, San Franciscans will be choosing the mayor, district attorney, treasurer, school board commissioners, and more. There will also be more than two dozen state and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/12/san-francisco-ballot-november-2024/">local ballot measures</a>. Here's what you need to know.</p>

<p>That means in addition to presidential and congressional races, San Franciscans will be choosing the mayor, district attorney, treasurer, school board commissioners, and more. There will also be more than two dozen state and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/12/san-francisco-ballot-november-2024/">local ballot measures</a>. Here&#8217;s what you need to know.</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ballots-arrive-in-october">Ballots arrive in October</h2>


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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ballots-arrive-in-october">Ballots arrive in October</h2>

All registered voters will receive mail-in ballots in early October, about a month prior to Nov. 5, Election Day. The package will include a prepaid return envelope; ballots can also be placed in more than 30 drop boxes <a href="https://voterguide.sfelections.org/general-information/official-ballot-drop-boxes-san-francisco">across the city</a>.&nbsp;

<p>All registered voters will receive mail-in ballots in early October, about a month prior to Nov. 5, Election Day. The package will include a prepaid return envelope; ballots can also be placed in more than 30 drop boxes <a href="https://voterguide.sfelections.org/general-information/official-ballot-drop-boxes-san-francisco">across the city</a>.&nbsp;</p>

For those who prefer to cast a ballot in person, early voting at City Hall starts <a href="https://sfelections.org/tools/cscal_nov24/">Oct. 7</a>. To find your assigned Election Day in-person polling place, use the <a href="https://sfelections.org/tools/portal/">voter portal</a>. (You can vote in polling locations that are not assigned for your precinct on Election Day, but your ballot will become “provisional” and require extra review.)

<p>For those who prefer to cast a ballot in person, early voting at City Hall starts <a href="https://sfelections.org/tools/cscal_nov24/">Oct. 7</a>. To find your assigned Election Day in-person polling place, use the <a href="https://sfelections.org/tools/portal/">voter portal</a>. (You can vote in polling locations that are not assigned for your precinct on Election Day, but your ballot will become “provisional” and require extra review.)</p>

You’ll be able to check on the status of your ballot via the <a href="https://sfelections.org/tools/portal/">voter portal</a> or the <a href="https://california.ballottrax.net/voter/">state tracking website</a>. If your ballot has not arrived by Oct. 11, or if it arrives damaged, phone the San Francisco Department of Elections at 415-554-4375 or visit the voter portal to request a replacement.

<p>You’ll be able to check on the status of your ballot via the <a href="https://sfelections.org/tools/portal/">voter portal</a> or the <a href="https://california.ballottrax.net/voter/">state tracking website</a>. If your ballot has not arrived by Oct. 11, or if it arrives damaged, phone the San Francisco Department of Elections at 415-554-4375 or visit the voter portal to request a replacement.</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-to-register-to-vote">How to register to vote</h2>


U.S. citizens who are 18 and older can register at the <a href="https://registertovote.ca.gov/">California Online Voter Registration website</a>. To receive mail-in ballots, you must register by Oct. 21. After that, you can get your ballot at City Hall or your assigned polling place.

<p>U.S. citizens who are 18 and older can register at the <a href="https://registertovote.ca.gov/">California Online Voter Registration website</a>. To receive mail-in ballots, you must register by Oct. 21. After that, you can get your ballot at City Hall or your assigned polling place.</p>

The state website can also update personal information and your address. For local ballot language changes, use the local department&#8217;s voter portal.

<p>The state website can also update personal information and your address. For local ballot language changes, use the local department's voter portal.</p>

<p>The state website can also update personal information and your address. For local ballot language changes, use the local department&#8217;s voter portal.</p>

Non-U.S. citizens who are San Francisco parents, legal guardians, or caregivers of children under 19 can vote in the school board elections. The slightly different registration process can be found on the <a href="https://www.sf.gov/non-citizen-voting-rights-local-board-education-elections">city government’s website</a>.

<p>Non-U.S. citizens who are San Francisco parents, legal guardians, or caregivers of children under 19 can vote in the school board elections. The slightly different registration process can be found on the <a href="https://www.sf.gov/non-citizen-voting-rights-local-board-education-elections">city government’s website</a>.</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-on-the-ballot">What&#8217;s on the ballot?</h2>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-on-the-ballot">What's on the ballot?</h2>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-on-the-ballot">What&#8217;s on the ballot?</h2>

While national politics dominate headlines, myriad local issues warrant your attention. Donors seem to think so too, as <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/01/daniel-lurie-campaign-finance-believe-in-sf/">tens of millions of dollars are flowing into local races</a> to influence voter opinions on candidates and policy measures.

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

<p>While national politics dominate headlines, myriad local issues warrant your attention. Donors seem to think so too, as <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/01/daniel-lurie-campaign-finance-believe-in-sf/">tens of millions of dollars are flowing into local races</a> to influence voter opinions on candidates and policy measures.</p>

San Francisco is having its first competitive mayoral race in six years. Incumbent Mayor London Breed won the special election by less than 3,000 votes in June 2018 and faced no major challenge in 2019, when she won a full four-year term. The scheduled 2023 mayoral race was moved to November due to the charter amendment combining odd- and even-year elections.

<p>San Francisco is having its first competitive mayoral race in six years. Incumbent Mayor London Breed won the special election by less than 3,000 votes in June 2018 and faced no major challenge in 2019, when she won a full four-year term. The scheduled 2023 mayoral race was moved to November due to the charter amendment combining odd- and even-year elections.</p>

Breed faces serious challenges from Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin, former interim mayor Mark Farrell, nonprofit founder and Levi’s heir Daniel Lurie, and Supervisor Ahsha Safaí.

<p>Breed faces serious challenges from Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin, former interim mayor Mark Farrell, nonprofit founder and Levi’s heir Daniel Lurie, and Supervisor Ahsha Safaí.</p>

Six supervisor seats are up for election, which could shape city politics for the next decade. The ballot will also feature <a href="https://www.kqed.org/news/11992997/here-are-the-state-ballot-measures-californians-will-vote-on-in-november">10 state propositions</a> and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/12/san-francisco-ballot-november-2024/">15 local measures</a>, including the contentious Great Highway closure and city commission reform.

<p>Six supervisor seats are up for election, which could shape city politics for the next decade. The ballot will also feature <a href="https://www.kqed.org/news/11992997/here-are-the-state-ballot-measures-californians-will-vote-on-in-november">10 state propositions</a> and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/12/san-francisco-ballot-november-2024/">15 local measures</a>, including the contentious Great Highway closure and city commission reform.</p>

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or confused, the city’s vibrant political and civic community, including dozens of <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/20/grow-sf-mayoral-endorsement/">advocacy groups</a>, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/22/sfpoa-endorsement-london-breed/">unions</a>, and <a href="https://www.sfdemocrats.org/clubs">democratic clubs</a>, can provide you with information.

Farrell edges out Breed, Lurie as all three secure moderate group’s endorsement

Police union endorses Breed for mayor, but Farrell gets the deputies

<p>If you’re feeling overwhelmed or confused, the city’s vibrant political and civic community, including dozens of <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/20/grow-sf-mayoral-endorsement/">advocacy groups</a>, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/22/sfpoa-endorsement-london-breed/">unions</a>, and <a href="https://www.sfdemocrats.org/clubs">democratic clubs</a>, can provide you with information.</p>

San Francisco election 2024: Your guide to registration and how to vote

Josh Koehn

Kingmakers come and go, but the speed with which San Francisco’s political hierarchy has shifted since November’s election is stunning — even by <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/25/biggest-san-francisco-political-scandals-sex-bribes-murder/">this city’s cutthroat standards</a>.

A history of San Francisco scandals: Sex, bribes, and murder

<p>Kingmakers come and go, but the speed with which San Francisco’s political hierarchy has shifted since November’s election is stunning — even by <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/25/biggest-san-francisco-political-scandals-sex-bribes-murder/">this city’s cutthroat standards</a>.</p>

Moderate Democratic organizations <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/05/06/san-francisco-neighbors-powerful-political-group-crisis/">Neighbors for a Better San Francisco</a>, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/05/01/san-francisco-together-sf-ballot-measure-mayor-abandoned/">TogetherSF</a>, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/07/31/dump-dean-preston-pac-growsf-declares-war-sf-supervisor-election/">GrowSF</a>, and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/03/20/tech-families-abundant-sf-millions-housing-transportation-education/">Abundant SF</a> all rose to prominence in the last five years by cultivating wealthy and influential donor networks that have shaped public policy and altered the outcome of elections. The groups combined to spend more than $14 million last year and scored important victories: wresting control of the local Democratic party from progressives, gaining a slim majority of the Board of Supervisors, and keeping the mayor’s office in moderate hands.

San Francisco’s most powerful political group is in crisis

After spending millions, San Francisco political group abandons push to empower mayor

‘Dump Dean PAC’ declares war on San Francisco’s Democratic Socialist Supervisor Dean Preston

San Francisco &#8216;tech families&#8217; plot to spend millions influencing policy

<p>Moderate Democratic organizations <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/05/06/san-francisco-neighbors-powerful-political-group-crisis/">Neighbors for a Better San Francisco</a>, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/05/01/san-francisco-together-sf-ballot-measure-mayor-abandoned/">TogetherSF</a>, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/07/31/dump-dean-preston-pac-growsf-declares-war-sf-supervisor-election/">GrowSF</a>, and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/03/20/tech-families-abundant-sf-millions-housing-transportation-education/">Abundant SF</a> all rose to prominence in the last five years by cultivating wealthy and influential donor networks that have shaped public policy and altered the outcome of elections. The groups combined to spend more than $14 million last year and scored important victories: wresting control of the local Democratic party from progressives, gaining a slim majority of the Board of Supervisors, and keeping the mayor’s office in moderate hands.</p>

But since Daniel Lurie won the mayor’s race, a stark change has occurred in the “Big Four” power rankings. His victory not only upended a San Francisco tradition of elected officials methodically making their way up the ladder to the mayor’s office; it also profoundly disrupted the plans of orbiting political organizations.&nbsp;

<p>But since Daniel Lurie won the mayor’s race, a stark change has occurred in the “Big Four” power rankings. His victory not only upended a San Francisco tradition of elected officials methodically making their way up the ladder to the mayor’s office; it also profoundly disrupted the plans of orbiting political organizations.&nbsp;</p>

8365661659_GrowSF: Steven Buss Bacio, left, and Sachin Agarwal of GrowSF poses for a portrait at City Hall San Francisco on Monday, Feb. 3, 2025. GrowSF maintained a moderate approach to achieve significant victories and increase its influence, playing a major role in the San Francisco elections.


<figure class="wp-block-image alignwide size-large"><img height="2500" width="1668" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/8365661659_growsf_aar_020_f74424.jpg?w=1668" alt="Two people stand on an ornate balcony in a grand building with large columns and decorative windows." class="wp-image-363945"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Steven Buss Bacio, left, and Sachin Agarwal of GrowSF achieved significant victories in last year&#8217;s elections and will likely play a a major role in next year&#8217;s races in San Francisco.</figcaption></figure>


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<figure class="wp-block-image alignwide size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/8365661659_growsf_aar_020_f74424.jpg?w=1668" alt="Two people stand on an ornate balcony in a grand building with large columns and decorative windows." class="wp-image-363945"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Steven Buss Bacio, left, and Sachin Agarwal of GrowSF achieved significant victories in last year's elections and will likely play a a major role in next year's races in San Francisco.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image alignwide size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/8365661659_growsf_aar_020_f74424.jpg?w=1668" alt="Two people stand on an ornate balcony in a grand building with large columns and decorative windows." class="wp-image-363945"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Steven Buss Bacio, left, and Sachin Agarwal of GrowSF achieved significant victories in last year&#8217;s elections and will likely play a a major role in next year&#8217;s races in San Francisco.</figcaption></figure>

GrowSF has unexpectedly risen to the top of the pecking order as it cozies up to Lurie. Abundant and Neighbors are licking their wounds after ruining their relationships with the new mayor. And now just a few months after the dust settled on election night, TogetherSF is dust in the wind.

<p>GrowSF has unexpectedly risen to the top of the pecking order as it cozies up to Lurie. Abundant and Neighbors are licking their wounds after ruining their relationships with the new mayor. And now just a few months after the dust settled on election night, TogetherSF is dust in the wind.</p>

Ahead of next year’s elections, the struggle to maintain or regain power and influence is already playing out in weird and unexpected ways. Welcome to the new season of “Game of Thrones: San Francisco Edition™.”

<p>Ahead of next year’s elections, the struggle to maintain or regain power and influence is already playing out in weird and unexpected ways. Welcome to the new season of “Game of Thrones: San Francisco Edition™.”</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-growsf-plays-it-safe-on-way-to-power">GrowSF plays it safe on way to power</h2>


In less than five years, GrowSF directors Sachin Agarwal and Steven Buss Bacio — former tech workers who pivoted to launch an organization focused on public safety and the local economy — have built the city’s largest and most influential moderate voter guide.

<p>In less than five years, GrowSF directors Sachin Agarwal and Steven Buss Bacio — former tech workers who pivoted to launch an organization focused on public safety and the local economy — have built the city’s largest and most influential moderate voter guide.</p>

The savviest move the group made this past election cycle was perhaps its blandest. Instead of backing one candidate for mayor, Grow gave an open endorsement <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/14/san-francisco-mayor-race-moderate-endorsements/">to the three moderates</a>: Lurie, Mark Farrell, and incumbent London Breed.&nbsp;

San Francisco mayor&#8217;s race is getting ugly as fight for endorsements heats up

<p>The savviest move the group made this past election cycle was perhaps its blandest. Instead of backing one candidate for mayor, Grow gave an open endorsement <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/14/san-francisco-mayor-race-moderate-endorsements/">to the three moderates</a>: Lurie, Mark Farrell, and incumbent London Breed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Turns out risk aversion has its rewards.</p>

Last week, Grow officials announced the equivalent of a Series D round of funding: In its fourth election cycle, the group aims to “significantly exceed” the roughly $5 million it raised for 2024, Agarwal told The Standard. Adding oomph to those efforts, Grow has brought on as a senior adviser Tyler Law, who served as Lurie’s consultant during the mayor’s race and continues in a consigliere role.

<p>Last week, Grow officials announced the equivalent of a Series D round of funding: In its fourth election cycle, the group aims to “significantly exceed” the roughly $5 million it raised for 2024, Agarwal told The Standard. Adding oomph to those efforts, Grow has brought on as a senior adviser Tyler Law, who served as Lurie’s consultant during the mayor’s race and continues in a consigliere role.</p>

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<div class="wp-block-column"><figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/8365661659_growsf_aar_003_6ceac5.jpg?w=1668" alt="A man in a teal button-up shirt stands indoors before a large glass door labeled &quot;North Light Court.&quot; The area is softly lit with warm ceiling lights." class="wp-image-363972"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Bacio says Lurie takes a collaborative approach to working with outside political groups.</figcaption></figure></div>

<div class="wp-block-column"><figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/8365661659_growsf_aar_007_7d69e3.jpg?w=1668" alt="A man in a light blue shirt leans on a decorative railing inside an ornate building with high ceilings and elegant arches." class="wp-image-363967"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Agarwal says GrowSF expects to raise far more than the $5 million it put together for last year&#8217;s election.</figcaption></figure></div>

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<div class="wp-block-columns"><div class="wp-block-column"><figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/8365661659_growsf_aar_003_6ceac5.jpg?w=1668" alt="A man in a teal button-up shirt stands indoors before a large glass door labeled &quot;North Light Court.&quot; The area is softly lit with warm ceiling lights." class="wp-image-363972"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Bacio says Lurie takes a collaborative approach to working with outside political groups.</figcaption></figure></div><div class="wp-block-column"><figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/8365661659_growsf_aar_007_7d69e3.jpg?w=1668" alt="A man in a light blue shirt leans on a decorative railing inside an ornate building with high ceilings and elegant arches." class="wp-image-363967"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Agarwal says GrowSF expects to raise far more than the $5 million it put together for last year&#8217;s election.</figcaption></figure></div></div>

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<div class="wp-block-group alignwide"><div class="wp-block-columns"><div class="wp-block-column"><figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/8365661659_growsf_aar_003_6ceac5.jpg?w=1668" alt="A man in a teal button-up shirt stands indoors before a large glass door labeled &quot;North Light Court.&quot; The area is softly lit with warm ceiling lights." class="wp-image-363972"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Bacio says Lurie takes a collaborative approach to working with outside political groups.</figcaption></figure></div><div class="wp-block-column"><figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/8365661659_growsf_aar_007_7d69e3.jpg?w=1668" alt="A man in a light blue shirt leans on a decorative railing inside an ornate building with high ceilings and elegant arches." class="wp-image-363967"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Agarwal says GrowSF expects to raise far more than the $5 million it put together for last year&#8217;s election.</figcaption></figure></div></div></div>

There is little doubt that Grow, which to this point has focused on elections over public policy work, will have an open-door policy with the Lurie administration.

<p>There is little doubt that Grow, which to this point has focused on elections over public policy work, will have an open-door policy with the Lurie administration.</p>

“Every time we met with Mayor Lurie before the election, he always started a conversation by asking a question. He didn’t start it by talking at you,” Bacio said. “He would just ask something like: ‘What can I do for you? How can I help? What&#8217;s on your mind?’ And I think that is probably a core part of his personality, so I expect that to remain true during his tenure as mayor.”

<p>“Every time we met with Mayor Lurie before the election, he always started a conversation by asking a question. He didn’t start it by talking at you,” Bacio said. “He would just ask something like: ‘What can I do for you? How can I help? What's on your mind?’ And I think that is probably a core part of his personality, so I expect that to remain true during his tenure as mayor.”</p>

<p>“Every time we met with Mayor Lurie before the election, he always started a conversation by asking a question. He didn’t start it by talking at you,” Bacio said. “He would just ask something like: ‘What can I do for you? How can I help? What&#8217;s on your mind?’ And I think that is probably a core part of his personality, so I expect that to remain true during his tenure as mayor.”</p>

The risk now for Grow is that its top-dog status makes it a target for rivals that will be jostling for the support of deep-pocketed donors.

<p>The risk now for Grow is that its top-dog status makes it a target for rivals that will be jostling for the support of deep-pocketed donors.</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-abundant-sf-burns-bridges-sees-inroads">Abundant SF burns bridges, sees inroads</h2>


Political observers have suspected that Abundant SF — a pro-urbanist organization that spent $1.8 million on supervisor and local Democratic Party races last year — is on the outs with Lurie because it supported Breed’s campaign. The truth is much messier.

<p>Political observers have suspected that Abundant SF — a pro-urbanist organization that spent $1.8 million on supervisor and local Democratic Party races last year — is on the outs with Lurie because it supported Breed’s campaign. The truth is much messier.</p>

Todd David, the group’s political director, burned a bridge in October when he called out Lurie over his stance on Israel, sources told The Standard. In a WhatsApp group thread for Jewish leaders in Noe Valley, David blasted Lurie for not coming out more strongly in defense of Israel a year after the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas, as well as for accepting the endorsement of Nadia Rahman, a former president of the San Francisco Women&#8217;s Political Committee and vocal critic of the Israel government.

<p>Todd David, the group’s political director, burned a bridge in October when he called out Lurie over his stance on Israel, sources told The Standard. In a WhatsApp group thread for Jewish leaders in Noe Valley, David blasted Lurie for not coming out more strongly in defense of Israel a year after the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas, as well as for accepting the endorsement of Nadia Rahman, a former president of the San Francisco Women's Political Committee and vocal critic of the Israel government.</p>

<p>Todd David, the group’s political director, burned a bridge in October when he called out Lurie over his stance on Israel, sources told The Standard. In a WhatsApp group thread for Jewish leaders in Noe Valley, David blasted Lurie for not coming out more strongly in defense of Israel a year after the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas, as well as for accepting the endorsement of Nadia Rahman, a former president of the San Francisco Women&#8217;s Political Committee and vocal critic of the Israel government.</p>

&#8220;It was abusive and intentionally cruel: Todd stoked division within a faith community while simultaneously attacking and smearing one of the only Muslim women in local politics,” Rahman told The Standard.

<p>"It was abusive and intentionally cruel: Todd stoked division within a faith community while simultaneously attacking and smearing one of the only Muslim women in local politics,” Rahman told The Standard.</p>

<p>&#8220;It was abusive and intentionally cruel: Todd stoked division within a faith community while simultaneously attacking and smearing one of the only Muslim women in local politics,” Rahman told The Standard.</p>

Lurie was furious with David and expressed his indignation in an emergency Zoom meeting, according to sources.

<p>Lurie was furious with David and expressed his indignation in an emergency Zoom meeting, according to sources.</p>

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<figure class="wp-block-pullquote"><blockquote><p>'We’ve always been about bringing together the 75% of San Franciscans that just want the basics to work in the city. People want good schools, more housing, public safety, parks — these are the things that government should deliver, and we're just going to stay focused on those popular things.'</p><cite>Sachin Agarwal, founder of GrowSF</cite></blockquote></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-pullquote"><blockquote><p>&#8216;We’ve always been about bringing together the 75% of San Franciscans that just want the basics to work in the city. People want good schools, more housing, public safety, parks — these are the things that government should deliver, and we&#8217;re just going to stay focused on those popular things.&#8217;</p><cite>Sachin Agarwal, founder of GrowSF</cite></blockquote></figure>

“I do not wish Daniel Lurie anything but success,” David told The Standard. “I thought it was a reasonable thing to raise, and if he wants to hold onto that, there’s not much I can do.”

<p>“I do not wish Daniel Lurie anything but success,” David told The Standard. “I thought it was a reasonable thing to raise, and if he wants to hold onto that, there’s not much I can do.”</p>

Combined with an op-ed David wrote for the Examiner <a href="https://www.sfexaminer.com/forum/daniel-lurie-inflates-housing-project-role-on-campaign-trail/article_db926ff4-87c8-11ef-b8ea-ebbcf3c8cea9.html">accusing Lurie of inflating his record on housing,</a> the Israel criticism cemented the wedge between Abundant’s political director and the Lurie administration. But David seems to think time can heal all wounds.

<p>Combined with an op-ed David wrote for the Examiner <a href="https://www.sfexaminer.com/forum/daniel-lurie-inflates-housing-project-role-on-campaign-trail/article_db926ff4-87c8-11ef-b8ea-ebbcf3c8cea9.html">accusing Lurie of inflating his record on housing,</a> the Israel criticism cemented the wedge between Abundant’s political director and the Lurie administration. But David seems to think time can heal all wounds.</p>

“There is no political doghouse in San Francisco that I have not spent some time in,” he said.

<p>“There is no political doghouse in San Francisco that I have not spent some time in,” he said.</p>

Lurie World: Tipping Point, corporate America, and campaign staff are remaking City Hall

sf-standard/related-post

Daniel Lurie’s arrival marks the end of the Willie Brown dynasty

sf-standard/related-posts-container

Insiders who spoke on the condition of anonymity did credit David with organizing the moderate slate that took control of the local Democratic Party last spring. However, Abundant is also doing damage control on another front.

<p>Insiders who spoke on the condition of anonymity did credit David with organizing the moderate slate that took control of the local Democratic Party last spring. However, Abundant is also doing damage control on another front.</p>

The group helped spearhead Proposition K, a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/opinion/2025/01/02/k-is-for-katastrophe-how-sf-centrists-wasted-a-golden-opportunity/">controversial fall ballot measure</a> that will soon turn the Great Highway into a park along Ocean Beach. Furious residents in the Sunset are attempting to recall Supervisor Joel Engardio over his sponsorship of Prop. K. A successful recall would eliminate the moderates’ slim majority on the board, and some have laid blame for this on Abundant. Questions have also been raised as to whether Prop. K led to moderate supervisor losses in Districts 1 and 11.

‘K’ is for katastrophe: How SF centrists wasted a golden opportunity

<p>The group helped spearhead Proposition K, a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/opinion/2025/01/02/k-is-for-katastrophe-how-sf-centrists-wasted-a-golden-opportunity/">controversial fall ballot measure</a> that will soon turn the Great Highway into a park along Ocean Beach. Furious residents in the Sunset are attempting to recall Supervisor Joel Engardio over his sponsorship of Prop. K. A successful recall would eliminate the moderates’ slim majority on the board, and some have laid blame for this on Abundant. Questions have also been raised as to whether Prop. K led to moderate supervisor losses in Districts 1 and 11.</p>

Zack Rosen, a founder of Abundant, rejected that criticism and noted that people in the group’s network are working with Lurie’s administration on rezoning the west side for new housing and addressing <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2025/01/24/san-francisco-public-transportation-funding-road-tolls-uber-waymo/">the city’s apocalyptic public transportation budget</a>. David and Rosen will be heavily involved in supporting moderate candidates in five supervisor races next year. Lurie may not love Abundant, but he needs allies to accomplish his policy goals.

Muni and BART are on life support. Here are the taxes you might pay to save them

<p>Zack Rosen, a founder of Abundant, rejected that criticism and noted that people in the group’s network are working with Lurie’s administration on rezoning the west side for new housing and addressing <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2025/01/24/san-francisco-public-transportation-funding-road-tolls-uber-waymo/">the city’s apocalyptic public transportation budget</a>. David and Rosen will be heavily involved in supporting moderate candidates in five supervisor races next year. Lurie may not love Abundant, but he needs allies to accomplish his policy goals.</p>

Zack Rosen, second from the left, is creating a new political group, Abundant SF, which will receive heavy funding from 'tech families' in San Francisco. State Sen. Scott Wiener, middle, is supportive of the group, which will work to advance his policies on housing and transportation. | Photo courtesy of Zack Rosen


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/IMG_2993.jpg" alt="A group of people smiles outdoors, holding a green sign reading &quot;J.F.K. Promenade, Golden Gate Park.&quot; There are trees in the background." class="wp-image-139985"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Zack Rosen, second from the left, launched Abundant SF in 2022 with a focus on policy outcomes, but his group will need to mend fences with San Francisco&#8217;s new mayor.</figcaption></figure>


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/IMG_2993.jpg" alt="A group of people smiles outdoors, holding a green sign reading &quot;J.F.K. Promenade, Golden Gate Park.&quot; There are trees in the background." class="wp-image-139985"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Zack Rosen, second from the left, launched Abundant SF in 2022 with a focus on policy outcomes, but his group will need to mend fences with San Francisco's new mayor.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/IMG_2993.jpg" alt="A group of people smiles outdoors, holding a green sign reading &quot;J.F.K. Promenade, Golden Gate Park.&quot; There are trees in the background." class="wp-image-139985"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Zack Rosen, second from the left, launched Abundant SF in 2022 with a focus on policy outcomes, but his group will need to mend fences with San Francisco&#8217;s new mayor.</figcaption></figure>

“What is on the mayor’s plate? The transit issue is a disaster in the making. Who’s working on that? Us. Who’s working on the rezoning issues? Us,” Rosen said. “It’s really a matter of the more, the merrier.”

<p>“What is on the mayor’s plate? The transit issue is a disaster in the making. Who’s working on that? Us. Who’s working on the rezoning issues? Us,” Rosen said. “It’s really a matter of the more, the merrier.”</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-togethersf-is-dead-as-a-doornail">TogetherSF is dead as a doornail</h2>


Together’s epic collapse is an allegory about flying too close to the sun and seeing all of one’s hopes and dreams — and money — go up in flames.

<p>Together’s epic collapse is an allegory about flying too close to the sun and seeing all of one’s hopes and dreams — and money — go up in flames.</p>

The organization, which prioritized the drug crisis and charter reform to empower the mayor, had the backing of venture capitalist Michael Moritz, the chairman of The Standard. But the group’s decision to go all in on Farrell’s mayoral campaign proved to be a severe miscalculation. 

<p>The organization, which prioritized the drug crisis and charter reform to empower the mayor, had the backing of venture capitalist Michael Moritz, the chairman of The Standard. But the group’s decision to go all in on Farrell’s mayoral campaign proved to be a severe miscalculation. </p>

Farrell’s insouciance toward ethics laws led to a record fine a day before the election. A committee he formed to support Proposition D, a ballot measure on charter reform, submarined that effort as voters too closely associated him with the proposal. Together flushed $7 million down the drain on the ballot measure.

<p>Farrell’s insouciance toward ethics laws led to a record fine a day before the election. A committee he formed to support Proposition D, a ballot measure on charter reform, submarined that effort as voters too closely associated him with the proposal. Together flushed $7 million down the drain on the ballot measure.</p>

Last month, Together and Neighbors for a Better San Francisco announced a merger. The deal was painted as a happy marriage, which makes sense considering that the groups’ leaders, Kanishka Cheng and Jay Cheng, respectively, are married. In reality, it was more like a red wedding.

<p>Last month, Together and Neighbors for a Better San Francisco announced a merger. The deal was painted as a happy marriage, which makes sense considering that the groups’ leaders, Kanishka Cheng and Jay Cheng, respectively, are married. In reality, it was more like a red wedding.</p>

Kanishka Cheng, CEO of TogetherSF and TogetherSF Action, poses for a photograph in San Francisco on April 13, 2023. 


<figure class="wp-block-image alignwide size-large"><img height="1667" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/featured_20231218charterreform.jpg?w=2500" alt="A person with long black hair stands next to a window." class="wp-image-233665"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Kanishka Cheng oversaw political operations for TogetherSF, but a failed charter reform effort and support for Mark Farrell&#8217;s mayoral bid led to the group&#8217;s demise. </figcaption></figure>


<figure class="wp-block-image alignwide size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/featured_20231218charterreform.jpg?w=2500" alt="A person with long black hair stands next to a window." class="wp-image-233665"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Kanishka Cheng oversaw political operations for TogetherSF, but a failed charter reform effort and support for Mark Farrell's mayoral bid led to the group's demise. </figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image alignwide size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/featured_20231218charterreform.jpg?w=2500" alt="A person with long black hair stands next to a window." class="wp-image-233665"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Kanishka Cheng oversaw political operations for TogetherSF, but a failed charter reform effort and support for Mark Farrell&#8217;s mayoral bid led to the group&#8217;s demise. </figcaption></figure>

Moritz was said to be none too happy with the election results, which is why he was fine closing up shop and offering generous severance packages to Together staff and Kanishka Cheng, who declined requests for comment. As part of the deal, Neighbors inherited TogetherSF’s coveted member list — one of the most extensive in the city.&nbsp;

<p>Moritz was said to be none too happy with the election results, which is why he was fine closing up shop and offering generous severance packages to Together staff and Kanishka Cheng, who declined requests for comment. As part of the deal, Neighbors inherited TogetherSF’s coveted member list — one of the most extensive in the city.&nbsp;</p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-neighbors-stranded-on-an-island-of-one">Neighbors stranded on an island of one?</h2>


The outlook for Neighbors, which fueled two successful recalls in 2022 and has funded a host of ballot measures and moderate candidates, isn’t quite as grim. However, Lurie apparently has zero interest in working with the organization’s executive director, Jay Cheng, who was found to be <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/30/san-francisco-mayors-race-neighbors-pac-mark-farrell/">working behind the scenes</a> to help Farrell’s campaign.

Hello, Neighbors: Mark Farrell’s mayoral campaign gets cozy with rich political group

<p>The outlook for Neighbors, which fueled two successful recalls in 2022 and has funded a host of ballot measures and moderate candidates, isn’t quite as grim. However, Lurie apparently has zero interest in working with the organization’s executive director, Jay Cheng, who was found to be <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/30/san-francisco-mayors-race-neighbors-pac-mark-farrell/">working behind the scenes</a> to help Farrell’s campaign.</p>

In the last three years, Neighbors has spent more than $11.9 million. Much of the funding and direction comes from conservative billionaire businessman William Oberndorf, according to people familiar with the organization.

<p>In the last three years, Neighbors has spent more than $11.9 million. Much of the funding and direction comes from conservative billionaire businessman William Oberndorf, according to people familiar with the organization.</p>

But it’s not clear how operations will move forward if Lurie is stiff-arming the organization. Would Oberndorf agree to go it mostly alone and fund all operations?

<p>But it’s not clear how operations will move forward if Lurie is stiff-arming the organization. Would Oberndorf agree to go it mostly alone and fund all operations?</p>

“If it’s just the Bill Oberndorf show, it should be called Neighbor — not Neighbors,” one observer quipped.

<p>“If it’s just the Bill Oberndorf show, it should be called Neighbor — not Neighbors,” one observer quipped.</p>

Kanishka Cheng, founder and CEO of Together SF Action, left, and Jay Cheng, CEO of Neighbors for a Better San Francisco at an event in San Francisco on November 8, 2023.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2207-tsa-2311081.jpg?w=2041" alt="Kanishka Cheng and Jay Cheng both smile while seated at a festive table with dinnerware, both dressed semi-formally." class="wp-image-270462"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Jay Cheng, right, said his organization, Neighbors for a Better San Francisco, is ready and willing to work with Lurie. The mayor may feel differently.</figcaption></figure>


In a text message, Jay Cheng dismissed the “insider chatter” and said Neighbors has seen strong fundraising support to start the year.

<p>In a text message, Jay Cheng dismissed the “insider chatter” and said Neighbors has seen strong fundraising support to start the year.</p>

“We are excited to support Mayor Lurie’s priorities and agenda,” he said. “We share the same vision and policy priorities Mayor Lurie has to move San Francisco forward. There is a lot of work to do to deliver the change that voters are hungry for, and we all need to pitch in to help get it done.”

<p>“We are excited to support Mayor Lurie’s priorities and agenda,” he said. “We share the same vision and policy priorities Mayor Lurie has to move San Francisco forward. There is a lot of work to do to deliver the change that voters are hungry for, and we all need to pitch in to help get it done.”</p>

Next season on ‘Game of Thrones: San Francisco Edition™’


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-next-season-on-game-of-thrones-san-francisco-edition">Next season on ‘Game of Thrones: San Francisco Edition™’</h2>


The rise and fall of power brokers in San Francisco is always fluid, and no one expects today’s chess board to be untouched come next year. The city has a deficit that is <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/12/03/san-francisco-budget-deficit-trump-funding-deportations/">creeping toward a billion dollars</a>, and Lurie’s honeymoon in office will officially be over by the time his first budget is due in June.&nbsp;

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

<p>The rise and fall of power brokers in San Francisco is always fluid, and no one expects today’s chess board to be untouched come next year. The city has a deficit that is <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/12/03/san-francisco-budget-deficit-trump-funding-deportations/">creeping toward a billion dollars</a>, and Lurie’s honeymoon in office will officially be over by the time his first budget is due in June.&nbsp;</p>

Fractured relationships with labor are sure to ensue, as will fights over Engardio’s potential recall. Lurie’s promise of building temporary shelters across the city in record time is <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2025/01/28/san-francisco-daniel-lurie-homelessness-shelter-promise/">giving pie-in-the-sky vibes</a>, and the housing and drug crises won’t be solved overnight. Pushing forward new revenue ideas to save the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency will likely require moderates of all stripes to rally weary voters.

Lurie&#8217;s vow to end street homelessness in 6 months was &#8216;slip-up,&#8217; says adviser

<p>Fractured relationships with labor are sure to ensue, as will fights over Engardio’s potential recall. Lurie’s promise of building temporary shelters across the city in record time is <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2025/01/28/san-francisco-daniel-lurie-homelessness-shelter-promise/">giving pie-in-the-sky vibes</a>, and the housing and drug crises won’t be solved overnight. Pushing forward new revenue ideas to save the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency will likely require moderates of all stripes to rally weary voters.</p>

Lurie may have allies he prefers right now, but he’ll need a bigger tent by the time voters go back to the polls in 2026.

<p>Lurie may have allies he prefers right now, but he’ll need a bigger tent by the time voters go back to the polls in 2026.</p>

“It’s an ecosystem,” Rosen said. “Successful coalitions that drive policy outcomes — not win races, but get actual policy outcomes — that requires multiple groups that can say, ‘If not for me, this wouldn’t have happened.’ In order to get policy outcomes, you need coalitional power.”

<p>“It’s an ecosystem,” Rosen said. “Successful coalitions that drive policy outcomes — not win races, but get actual policy outcomes — that requires multiple groups that can say, ‘If not for me, this wouldn’t have happened.’ In order to get policy outcomes, you need coalitional power.”</p>

SF political power rankings: Who has Daniel Lurie’s ear?

John E. Palmer

With just three weeks to go to the election, many San Franciscans are still scratching their heads over the seemingly convoluted system of ranked-choice voting for mayor. I don’t blame them — and I’m on the board of a nonprofit organization called Rank the Vote, which seeks to promote the use of ranked-choice voting nationally. 

<p>With just three weeks to go to the election, many San Franciscans are still scratching their heads over the seemingly convoluted system of ranked-choice voting for mayor. I don’t blame them — and I’m on the board of a nonprofit organization called Rank the Vote, which seeks to promote the use of ranked-choice voting nationally. </p>

The truth is, the process can be confusing — just as a horserace between 13 thoroughbreds can be confusing. But voters can navigate this particular race by keeping some basic concepts in mind. 

<p>The truth is, the process can be confusing — just as a horserace between 13 thoroughbreds can be confusing. But voters can navigate this particular race by keeping some basic concepts in mind. </p>

First, San Franciscans are being asked to rank a field of 13 mayoral candidates and are allowed up to 10 choices. Do you need to rank that many? No, you absolutely do not. But you likely do need to rank more than your favorite candidate if you want your ballot to truly count.  

<p>First, San Franciscans are being asked to rank a field of 13 mayoral candidates and are allowed up to 10 choices. Do you need to rank that many? No, you absolutely do not. But you likely do need to rank more than your favorite candidate if you want your ballot to truly count.  </p>

Here’s why. Ranked-choice voting works as a powerful system that narrows a crowded field of candidates through a series of computer-assisted instant runoffs. In the likely event that there is no majority winner after the first runoff, the least successful candidate is eliminated, and that person’s votes are reallocated based on the voters’ next choices.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<p>Here’s why. Ranked-choice voting works as a powerful system that narrows a crowded field of candidates through a series of computer-assisted instant runoffs. In the likely event that there is no majority winner after the first runoff, the least successful candidate is eliminated, and that person’s votes are reallocated based on the voters’ next choices.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

If you don’t add a second choice, your vote has nowhere to go after your preferred candidate is eliminated in a run-off. In this year’s particularly competitive mayoral race, 11 candidates will likely be eliminated in order to arrive at two finalists and a majority result. For your vote to be counted in that final round, you need to have one of those final two candidates somewhere in your ranking.  

<p>If you don’t add a second choice, your vote has nowhere to go after your preferred candidate is eliminated in a run-off. In this year’s particularly competitive mayoral race, 11 candidates will likely be eliminated in order to arrive at two finalists and a majority result. For your vote to be counted in that final round, you need to have one of those final two candidates somewhere in your ranking.  </p>

By most accounts, London Breed, Daniel Lurie, and Mark Farrell (not necessarily in that order) are polling strongest, followed by Aaron Peskin and Ahsha Safaí.&nbsp; There are eight other candidates whom the polling doesn’t even track.

<p>By most accounts, London Breed, Daniel Lurie, and Mark Farrell (not necessarily in that order) are polling strongest, followed by Aaron Peskin and Ahsha Safaí.&nbsp; There are eight other candidates whom the polling doesn’t even track.</p>

Here’s my suggestion: Rank as many candidates as you can of these top five. It’s important to know that your lower rankings cannot hurt your top one; you stay with your top choice provided that person is not eliminated. But if your candidate does get sent home, your vote switches to your next choice. You’re still in the race.  

<p>Here’s my suggestion: Rank as many candidates as you can of these top five. It’s important to know that your lower rankings cannot hurt your top one; you stay with your top choice provided that person is not eliminated. But if your candidate does get sent home, your vote switches to your next choice. You’re still in the race.  </p>

Here are some strategies for San Francisco voters of differing political stripes:&nbsp;

<p>Here are some strategies for San Francisco voters of differing political stripes:&nbsp;</p>


<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>You want anyone but Breed.</strong> Rank Lurie, Farrell, and Peskin in your preferred order, and you’re done. (This strategy also works for “Anyone but Peskin,” etc.)</li>



<li><strong>You favor reelecting Breed.</strong> Rank her first, and you’re probably OK stopping there. Based on polling, it’s extremely unlikely that she’ll be eliminated before the final round. But (never say never) you could rank two additional candidates (Lurie, Farrell, and/or Peskin) to be 100% sure. This will not hurt your first-choice vote for Breed.</li>



<li><strong>You lean conservative or moderate and don’t like Breed.</strong> Rank Lurie and Farrell as your top picks, in your preferred order. You’re done. According to polling, one of these two will go the distance, and the votes from the one who’s eliminated will benefit the other. (They are splitting the conservative non-Breed votes.)</li>



<li><strong>You are a staunch progressive.</strong> Maybe you rank Safaí and Peskin on top, in your preferred order. But you need a backup plan. Based on polling, both these candidates will likely be eliminated. For your third and fourth choices, rank two of the three leaders (Lurie, Farrell, and/or Breed) in your order of preference.</li>



<li><strong>You favor one or more of the eight lesser-known candidates.</strong> This may be a friend or relative, or maybe you like their views (or you’re just a proud contrarian). By all means, rank them first! But since your candidate will 100% be sent back to the barn, you absolutely need backups if you want to wager on a winner. Follow the above rules for your remaining rankings.</li>



<li><strong>The 13 choices aren’t enough, so you’re writing one in.</strong> First, book some time with your therapist. Then refer to Rule 5. You can introduce a new name to the process <em>and</em> have your vote counted.</li>
</ol>


<strong>You want anyone but Breed.</strong> Rank Lurie, Farrell, and Peskin in your preferred order, and you’re done. (This strategy also works for “Anyone but Peskin,” etc.)

core/list-item

<li><strong>You want anyone but Breed.</strong> Rank Lurie, Farrell, and Peskin in your preferred order, and you’re done. (This strategy also works for “Anyone but Peskin,” etc.)</li>

core/list

<ol class="wp-block-list"><li><strong>You want anyone but Breed.</strong> Rank Lurie, Farrell, and Peskin in your preferred order, and you’re done. (This strategy also works for “Anyone but Peskin,” etc.)</li><li><strong>You favor reelecting Breed.</strong> Rank her first, and you’re probably OK stopping there. Based on polling, it’s extremely unlikely that she’ll be eliminated before the final round. But (never say never) you could rank two additional candidates (Lurie, Farrell, and/or Peskin) to be 100% sure. This will not hurt your first-choice vote for Breed.</li><li><strong>You lean conservative or moderate and don’t like Breed.</strong> Rank Lurie and Farrell as your top picks, in your preferred order. You’re done. According to polling, one of these two will go the distance, and the votes from the one who’s eliminated will benefit the other. (They are splitting the conservative non-Breed votes.)</li><li><strong>You are a staunch progressive.</strong> Maybe you rank Safaí and Peskin on top, in your preferred order. But you need a backup plan. Based on polling, both these candidates will likely be eliminated. For your third and fourth choices, rank two of the three leaders (Lurie, Farrell, and/or Breed) in your order of preference.</li><li><strong>You favor one or more of the eight lesser-known candidates.</strong> This may be a friend or relative, or maybe you like their views (or you’re just a proud contrarian). By all means, rank them first! But since your candidate will 100% be sent back to the barn, you absolutely need backups if you want to wager on a winner. Follow the above rules for your remaining rankings.</li><li><strong>The 13 choices aren’t enough, so you’re writing one in.</strong> First, book some time with your therapist. Then refer to Rule 5. You can introduce a new name to the process <em>and</em> have your vote counted.</li></ol>

San Francisco election 2024: Your guide to registration and how to vote

SF political power rankings: Who has Daniel Lurie’s ear?

Opinion: Baffled by the mayor’s race? Here’s how to be a tactical ranked-choice voter

Kamala Harris energized SF voters. Will she also help reelect London Breed?

Breed has dodged scandals before. This one might actually stick

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San Francisco election 2024: Your guide to registration and how to vote

SF political power rankings: Who has Daniel Lurie’s ear?

Opinion: Baffled by the mayor’s race? Here’s how to be a tactical ranked-choice voter

Kamala Harris energized SF voters. Will she also help reelect London Breed?

Breed has dodged scandals before. This one might actually stick