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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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;

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

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.

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.

<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;

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;

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.)

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.)

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.

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.

<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.

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.

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

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

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

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>.

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>.

<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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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

Josh Koehn

San Francisco’s mayor’s race still has more than eight months to go until the finish line, but it seems guaranteed to become the most expensive in city history now that <a href="https://sfstandard.com/search/?query=mark%20farrell">Mark Farrell</a> has entered the chat.

San Francisco’s mayor’s race still has more than eight months to go until the finish line, but it seems guaranteed to become the most expensive in city history now that <a href="https://sfstandard.com/search/?query=mark%20farrell">Mark Farrell</a> has entered the chat.

After formally announcing his candidacy on Tuesday, the former mayor and supervisor needed just 48 hours to raise $200,000, according to his campaign. Farrell reportedly pooled this money from almost 500 separate contributions, with 70% of donors residing in San Francisco.

After formally announcing his candidacy on Tuesday, the former mayor and supervisor needed just 48 hours to raise $200,000, according to his campaign. Farrell reportedly pooled this money from almost 500 separate contributions, with 70% of donors residing in San Francisco.

“This incredible showing of early support demonstrates that voters are inspired by his vision for a safer, cleaner and more vibrant San Francisco,” said Jade Tu, Farrell’s campaign manager, in a statement.

“This incredible showing of early support demonstrates that voters are inspired by his vision for a safer, cleaner and more vibrant San Francisco,” said Jade Tu, Farrell’s campaign manager, in a statement.

That $200,000 figure would bring the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/05/money-san-francisco-mayor-election-london-breed-daniel-lurie/">total fundraising by mayoral candidates and outside committees</a> to more than $5 million. Through its public matching program, the city is expected to inject another $4.8 million into the race. Mayoral candidates must meet certain thresholds to unlock up to $1.2 million in public financing, and all four major candidates—Mayor <a href="https://sfstandard.com/search/?query=london%20breed">London Breed</a>, Farrell, Supervisor <a href="https://sfstandard.com/search/?query=ahsha%20safa%C3%AD">Ahsha Safaí</a> and nonprofit founder <a href="https://sfstandard.com/search/?query=daniel%20lurie">Daniel Lurie</a>—appear likely to do so.&nbsp;

Breed getting crushed in fundraising in tough reelection fight

That $200,000 figure would bring the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/05/money-san-francisco-mayor-election-london-breed-daniel-lurie/">total fundraising by mayoral candidates and outside committees</a> to more than $5 million. Through its public matching program, the city is expected to inject another $4.8 million into the race. Mayoral candidates must meet certain thresholds to unlock up to $1.2 million in public financing, and all four major candidates—Mayor <a href="https://sfstandard.com/search/?query=london%20breed">London Breed</a>, Farrell, Supervisor <a href="https://sfstandard.com/search/?query=ahsha%20safa%C3%AD">Ahsha Safaí</a> and nonprofit founder <a href="https://sfstandard.com/search/?query=daniel%20lurie">Daniel Lurie</a>—appear likely to do so.&nbsp;

Combining the above figures and money reported in the most recently available campaign filings—and presuming all of this money gets spent—the total of $9.8 million would smash the record-setting $8.4 million spent in the 2018 special election Breed won.

Combining the above figures and money reported in the most recently available campaign filings—and presuming all of this money gets spent—the total of $9.8 million would smash the record-setting $8.4 million spent in the 2018 special election Breed won.

Of course, with all eyes focused on the March primary and several notable ballot measures, the money coming into the mayor’s race seems likely to jump substantially in the summertime.

Of course, with all eyes focused on the March primary and several notable ballot measures, the money coming into the mayor’s race seems likely to jump substantially in the summertime.

Farrell’s sprint out of the gates was expected, as he is a native San Franciscan who attended the prestigious—and politically connected—St. Ignatius College Preparatory School before launching a career as an attorney, venture capitalist and elected official. He served seven years as a supervisor for the Marina and surrounding neighborhoods before being appointed the city’s 44th mayor following the death of Mayor Ed Lee in December 2017. He served roughly six months in that role.

Farrell’s sprint out of the gates was expected, as he is a native San Franciscan who attended the prestigious—and politically connected—St. Ignatius College Preparatory School before launching a career as an attorney, venture capitalist and elected official. He served seven years as a supervisor for the Marina and surrounding neighborhoods before being appointed the city’s 44th mayor following the death of Mayor Ed Lee in December 2017. He served roughly six months in that role.

Early messaging coming out of the Farrell camp suggests he will tack right of Breed, beating the drum on public safety and framing the mayor’s approach to homelessness and the local economy as a failure. Farrell has said he would <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/13/mark-farrell-san-francisco-mayor-police-homeless/">fire the police chief</a> in one of his first actions as mayor and clear all large homeless encampments within a year. He also said he would slash local business taxes and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/13/market-street-san-francisco-doom-loop-mark-farrell/">reopen Market Street to cars</a>.

Mark Farrell vows to fire police chief, clear homeless camps as mayor

Mayoral candidate calls for bringing cars back to Market Street

Early messaging coming out of the Farrell camp suggests he will tack right of Breed, beating the drum on public safety and framing the mayor’s approach to homelessness and the local economy as a failure. Farrell has said he would <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/13/mark-farrell-san-francisco-mayor-police-homeless/">fire the police chief</a> in one of his first actions as mayor and clear all large homeless encampments within a year. He also said he would slash local business taxes and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/13/market-street-san-francisco-doom-loop-mark-farrell/">reopen Market Street to cars</a>.

The early fundraising totals for Farrell should dispel speculation that he and Lurie—an heir to the Levi Strauss fortune whose <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/30/daniel-lurie-mom-spends-million-dollars-san-francisco-mayor-race/">friends and family have already raised millions in support of his mayoral bid</a>—will have trouble fundraising due to an overlap in supporters. There is clearly more than enough money to go around in San Francisco, especially with new polling showing that 72% of residents believe <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/14/san-francisco-mayor-london-breed-chamber-commerce/">the city is headed down the wrong track</a>.

Daniel Lurie&#8217;s mother spends $1 million to help him win San Francisco mayor’s race

More than 70% of San Francisco voters say the city is on the wrong track

The early fundraising totals for Farrell should dispel speculation that he and Lurie—an heir to the Levi Strauss fortune whose <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/30/daniel-lurie-mom-spends-million-dollars-san-francisco-mayor-race/">friends and family have already raised millions in support of his mayoral bid</a>—will have trouble fundraising due to an overlap in supporters. There is clearly more than enough money to go around in San Francisco, especially with new polling showing that 72% of residents believe <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/14/san-francisco-mayor-london-breed-chamber-commerce/">the city is headed down the wrong track</a>.

Farrell’s campaign noted that it has also scheduled 85 house parties for the coming weeks and months to spread his message and, of course, collect a little cash.

Farrell’s campaign noted that it has also scheduled 85 house parties for the coming weeks and months to spread his message and, of course, collect a little cash.

Breed challenger hauls in $200K in first 2 days of campaign

Wearing a traditional bright red Chinese dress, San Francisco Mayor London Breed was extremely excited at the annual Chinatown parade celebrating the Year of the Dragon. “This is the best Lunar New Year parade in the world!” Breed <a href="https://twitter.com/lihanlihan/status/1761595458852638783" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">yelled passionately</a> into a microphone, looking to the sky as her float arrived at the grandstand.&nbsp;

Wearing a traditional bright red Chinese dress, San Francisco Mayor London Breed was extremely excited at the annual Chinatown parade celebrating the Year of the Dragon. “This is the best Lunar New Year parade in the world!” Breed <a href="https://twitter.com/lihanlihan/status/1761595458852638783" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">yelled passionately</a> into a microphone, looking to the sky as her float arrived at the grandstand.&nbsp;

Her recent calendar reflects that enthusiasm. In total, Breed attended almost 30 Lunar New Year events across the city this year as she looked to garner support from the Asian American community, which helped her win the mayoral race in 2018. On Feb. 10, the first day of the Chinese New Year, she hit up six events within four hours in Chinatown, her office told The Standard.

Her recent calendar reflects that enthusiasm. In total, Breed attended almost 30 Lunar New Year events across the city this year as she looked to garner support from the Asian American community, which helped her win the mayoral race in 2018. On Feb. 10, the first day of the Chinese New Year, she hit up six events within four hours in Chinatown, her office told The Standard.

Behind Breed’s strenuous effort to maximize exposure in the Chinese community are <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/31/san-francisco-mayor-race-breed-lurie-poll/">plummeting poll numbers and a crumbling base of Asian American</a> support as the city has struggled with crime caught in viral videos and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/27/san-francisco-macys-closing/">downtown store closures</a>. Over the past few years, the Asian American community has been increasingly outspoken about public safety and what they see as lawlessness—and the mayor’s inability to fix it.&nbsp;

Bad news for Mayor London Breed in new poll

In another severe blow to San Francisco, Macy’s to close historic Union Square store

Behind Breed’s strenuous effort to maximize exposure in the Chinese community are <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/31/san-francisco-mayor-race-breed-lurie-poll/">plummeting poll numbers and a crumbling base of Asian American</a> support as the city has struggled with crime caught in viral videos and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/27/san-francisco-macys-closing/">downtown store closures</a>. Over the past few years, the Asian American community has been increasingly outspoken about public safety and what they see as lawlessness—and the mayor’s inability to fix it.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, sharks are circling Breed as her competitors aggressively target the moderate, pro-police and pro-business Chinese and Asian voters that could decide the mayor’s race.

Meanwhile, sharks are circling Breed as her competitors aggressively target the moderate, pro-police and pro-business Chinese and Asian voters that could decide the mayor’s race.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lurie-s-impressive-gains">Lurie’s impressive gains</h2>

Two days after the parade, nonprofit founder and Levi’s heir Daniel Lurie, a political newcomer, held a rally to announce his policy platform to address drug abuse in San Francisco.

Two days after the parade, nonprofit founder and Levi’s heir Daniel Lurie, a political newcomer, held a rally to announce his policy platform to address drug abuse in San Francisco.

But Lurie did not choose the Tenderloin or SoMa, the epicenters of the drug crisis. He chose Chinatown to unveil his plan, capitalizing on his impressive gains with the Chinese community.

But Lurie did not choose the Tenderloin or SoMa, the epicenters of the drug crisis. He chose Chinatown to unveil his plan, capitalizing on his impressive gains with the Chinese community.

Prominent Asian American law enforcement officials attended Lurie’s event, including Asian Firefighters Association President Stan Lee and retired San Francisco Police Department Commander Paul Yep. Also present were a dozen other Asian leaders from community nonprofits, political clubs and private businesses.

Prominent Asian American law enforcement officials attended Lurie’s event, including Asian Firefighters Association President Stan Lee and retired San Francisco Police Department Commander Paul Yep. Also present were a dozen other Asian leaders from community nonprofits, political clubs and private businesses.

Mayoral Candidate Daniel Lurie speaks with a supporter while visiting merchants in Chinatown while campaigning in San Francisco on Friday, January, 2024. Lurie, the founder of anti-poverty nonprofit Tipping Point and an heir to the Levi Strauss fortune, is one of the most prominent challengers to Mayor London Breed in this year’s election.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/inlined01_20240229-splitchinesemoderate.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man converses with someone in a street lined with red lanterns and festive flags." class="wp-image-253741"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayoral Candidate Daniel Lurie campaigns in Chinatown in January.</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/inlined01_20240229-splitchinesemoderate.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man converses with someone in a street lined with red lanterns and festive flags." class="wp-image-253741"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayoral Candidate Daniel Lurie campaigns in Chinatown in January.</figcaption></figure>

Many of them, such as recall activists Leanna Louie, Selena Chu and Chinese American Democratic Club leader Wilson Chu, are loyal moderates and former Breed supporters.

Many of them, such as recall activists Leanna Louie, Selena Chu and Chinese American Democratic Club leader Wilson Chu, are loyal moderates and former Breed supporters.

“We share a commitment to restoring safety, supporting small businesses,” Lurie said in a statement, “and increasing [Asian American Pacific Islander] representation throughout city government.”

“We share a commitment to restoring safety, supporting small businesses,” Lurie said in a statement, “and increasing [Asian American Pacific Islander] representation throughout city government.”

Tommy Yang, owner of the famous Old Mandarin Islamic Restaurant, was among those in attendance at Lurie’s event. He told The Standard in Chinese that he believes Lurie is the fresh face City Hall needs to get San Francisco back on track.

Tommy Yang, owner of the famous Old Mandarin Islamic Restaurant, was among those in attendance at Lurie’s event. He told The Standard in Chinese that he believes Lurie is the fresh face City Hall needs to get San Francisco back on track.

Mark Farrell, a former supervisor and mayor challenging Breed, has also actively campaigned in Chinatown and with the Chinese community. But so far he lacks Lurie’s momentum of picking up prominent Chinese American supporters, though <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/projects/2024/sf-mayor-poll-takeaways/">a San Francisco Chronicle poll</a> shows that Farrell and Lurie have comparable support among Asian voters.

Mark Farrell, a former supervisor and mayor challenging Breed, has also actively campaigned in Chinatown and with the Chinese community. But so far he lacks Lurie’s momentum of picking up prominent Chinese American supporters, though <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/projects/2024/sf-mayor-poll-takeaways/">a San Francisco Chronicle poll</a> shows that Farrell and Lurie have comparable support among Asian voters.

The day after Breed <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/20/san-francisco-mayor-change-chinatown-sober-housing/">backed off a controversial plan</a> to create a sober housing facility in Chinatown, Farrell <a href="https://twitter.com/MarkFarrellSF/status/1760522052308783334" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">met with vocal business owners</a> who rallied against it.

Mayor drops Chinatown ‘sober housing’ plan amid pushback

The day after Breed <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/20/san-francisco-mayor-change-chinatown-sober-housing/">backed off a controversial plan</a> to create a sober housing facility in Chinatown, Farrell <a href="https://twitter.com/MarkFarrellSF/status/1760522052308783334" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">met with vocal business owners</a> who rallied against it.

Mark Farrell, a former San Francisco mayor and supervisor, formally announce his candidacy at the San Francisco Baseball Academy at 3010 Geary Boulevard in San Francisco on Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2004. Mark Farrell will challenge London Breed and other candidates in the November 2024 mayoral election.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/inlined02_20240229-splitchinesemoderate.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man speaks at a podium with &quot;Mark Farrell for Mayor&quot; signs, a woman stands behind him, and microphones are in front." class="wp-image-253742"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mark Farrell, who formally announced his candidacy for San Francisco mayor in mid-February, has actively campaigned in Chinatown and with the Chinese community.</figcaption></figure>

Though he doesn’t currently hold office, Farrell made his way into the Chinese New Year parade wearing a traditional Chinese outfit and posing with the police lion dance team.

Though he doesn’t currently hold office, Farrell made his way into the Chinese New Year parade wearing a traditional Chinese outfit and posing with the police lion dance team.

Retired Deputy Police Chief Garret Tom publicly supports Farrell and appears in his ads, calling him “a very smart guy and a local boy who loves the city,” with experience in both City Hall and the private sector. But Tom said that Farrell, who only recently began campaigning, has yet to garner much Chinese American support. A loyal moderate, Tom said he would consider Lurie or Breed as his second or third choice under the city’s ranked-choice voting system.

Retired Deputy Police Chief Garret Tom publicly supports Farrell and appears in his ads, calling him “a very smart guy and a local boy who loves the city,” with experience in both City Hall and the private sector. But Tom said that Farrell, who only recently began campaigning, has yet to garner much Chinese American support. A loyal moderate, Tom said he would consider Lurie or Breed as his second or third choice under the city’s ranked-choice voting system.

Meanwhile, Supervisor Ahsha Safaí, despite announcing his candidacy almost a year ago, has struggled to find prominent Chinese American supporters to side with him. On his donor’s list, Gorretti Lui, a philanthropist and board member of the Chinese Historical Society of America, stood out.

Meanwhile, Supervisor Ahsha Safaí, despite announcing his candidacy almost a year ago, has struggled to find prominent Chinese American supporters to side with him. On his donor’s list, Gorretti Lui, a philanthropist and board member of the Chinese Historical Society of America, stood out.

Lui said she supported Safai and Breed because they helped Chinatown during the pandemic, especially by setting aside budgets for a small museum like the historical society during a challenging time when no one was visiting the neighborhood. Lui said the museum received city funds for its building renovation and the curation of a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/04/22/sf-martial-arts-icon-bruce-lee-used-his-platform-to-build-cross-cultural-bridges/">Bruce Lee exhibition</a>.

SF martial arts icon Bruce Lee used his platform to build cross-cultural bridges

Lui said she supported Safai and Breed because they helped Chinatown during the pandemic, especially by setting aside budgets for a small museum like the historical society during a challenging time when no one was visiting the neighborhood. Lui said the museum received city funds for its building renovation and the curation of a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/04/22/sf-martial-arts-icon-bruce-lee-used-his-platform-to-build-cross-cultural-bridges/">Bruce Lee exhibition</a>.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-potential-wild-cards">The potential wild cards</h2>

Potential wild cards who could disrupt the mayoral race and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/30/san-francisco-mayor-election-asian-chinese-vote/">split the Chinese votes</a> include Chinese American City Attorney David Chiu and longtime Chinatown representative and current Board President Aaron Peskin.

San Francisco mayoral candidates are scrambling to win over Chinese American voters

Potential wild cards who could disrupt the mayoral race and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/30/san-francisco-mayor-election-asian-chinese-vote/">split the Chinese votes</a> include Chinese American City Attorney David Chiu and longtime Chinatown representative and current Board President Aaron Peskin.

Chiu filed for city attorney reelection in November, meaning he’s not currently challenging Breed. In a statement about Asian American votes, he said the community wants leaders who understand them, have deep local roots, deliver results and have a compelling vision.

Chiu filed for city attorney reelection in November, meaning he’s not currently challenging Breed. In a statement about Asian American votes, he said the community wants leaders who understand them, have deep local roots, deliver results and have a compelling vision.

Peskin has long been rumored to be plotting a dark-horse run for mayor but <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/26/san-francisco-progressive-supervisor-aaron-peskin-not-running-mayor/">repeatedly deflected the reports</a>, saying he’s focusing on policy work. However, one source in Chinatown told The Standard that Peskin told them that he will definitely run.

Supervisor Aaron Peskin says he’s definitely not running for mayor: ‘I’m afraid of winning’

Peskin has long been rumored to be plotting a dark-horse run for mayor but <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/26/san-francisco-progressive-supervisor-aaron-peskin-not-running-mayor/">repeatedly deflected the reports</a>, saying he’s focusing on policy work. However, one source in Chinatown told The Standard that Peskin told them that he will definitely run.

District 3 Supervisor Aaron Peskin addresses members of the media during a press conference announcing the release of the draft plan of the San Francisco Waterfront Flood Study at the Ferry Building in San Francisco on January 26, 2024. Officials are proposing flood defenses to combat sea level rise along San Francisco’s waterfront.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/inlined03_20240229-splitchinesemoderate.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man in a suit speaks at a clear podium, gesturing, with a blurred woman in the background." class="wp-image-253743"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Current Board President Aaron Peskin has long been rumored to be plotting a dark-horse run for mayor.</figcaption></figure>

Allan Low, a former park commissioner and progressive attorney, is a strong Peskin ally. But Low surprised some in the community when he showed up to support Lurie in Chinatown on Monday.

Allan Low, a former park commissioner and progressive attorney, is a strong Peskin ally. But Low surprised some in the community when he showed up to support Lurie in Chinatown on Monday.

He explained that Lurie is his personal friend, so he’s supporting him, but the ranked-choice voting system allows him to seek other more progressive candidates.

He explained that Lurie is his personal friend, so he’s supporting him, but the ranked-choice voting system allows him to seek other more progressive candidates.

“The field has yet to be defined,” Low said. “A lot of Asian American voters are still exploring the candidates.”

“The field has yet to be defined,” Low said. “A lot of Asian American voters are still exploring the candidates.”

He emphasized that the Asian American community is not a monolithic voting bloc and noted that political moderates may be splintering off between Breed, Lurie and Farrell.

He emphasized that the Asian American community is not a monolithic voting bloc and noted that political moderates may be splintering off between Breed, Lurie and Farrell.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-still-team-london">Still Team London</h2>

Breed is not wasting any opportunities to earn some more Asian American community support. At the Chinese New Year Parade grandstand, Breed <a href="https://link.sfstandard.com/view/6436ea099b26044931999510kitg0.nm/22aa76ee">held hands with one</a> high-profile critic, Chino Yang, a rapper who <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/19/chinese-rapper-san-francisco-london-breed/">criticized her as a clown</a> in a rap song, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/27/san-francisco-chino-yang-rap-song-mayor-apology/">triggering a political firestorm</a>. They vowed to work together, creating a perfect reconciliation photo op for the multiple reporters holding cameras and ready to post images to social media.

Restaurant owner fed-up with San Francisco crime slams &#8216;phony ass&#8217; mayor in rap

Rapper says he&#8217;s sorry for music video slamming San Francisco mayor

Breed is not wasting any opportunities to earn some more Asian American community support. At the Chinese New Year Parade grandstand, Breed <a href="https://link.sfstandard.com/view/6436ea099b26044931999510kitg0.nm/22aa76ee">held hands with one</a> high-profile critic, Chino Yang, a rapper who <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/19/chinese-rapper-san-francisco-london-breed/">criticized her as a clown</a> in a rap song, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/27/san-francisco-chino-yang-rap-song-mayor-apology/">triggering a political firestorm</a>. They vowed to work together, creating a perfect reconciliation photo op for the multiple reporters holding cameras and ready to post images to social media.

Despite poor poll numbers, some loyalists—including some Chinese American city commissioners she appointed—are standing by Breed.

Despite poor poll numbers, some loyalists—including some Chinese American city commissioners she appointed—are standing by Breed.

Cyn Wang, a member of the Entertainment Commission, said she’s still “Team London,” praising Breed’s personal resilience as a Black woman rising from public housing to mayor. Wang said Breed has consistently supported Asian parents on education and public safety.

Cyn Wang, a member of the Entertainment Commission, said she’s still “Team London,” praising Breed’s personal resilience as a Black woman rising from public housing to mayor. Wang said Breed has consistently supported Asian parents on education and public safety.

Mayor London Breed chats with seniors and Anni Chung, the President and CEO of Self-Help for the Elderly at a press conference on Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023, at the Lady Shaw Senior Center in Chinatown, hosted by Self-Help for The Elderly, where Police Chief Bill Scott announced a plan to increase the uniformed officers in the districts of the city with majority Asian populations, after both mass shootings during the Lunar New Year, despite “staffing crises.”

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/featured_20240229-splitchinesemoderate.jpg?w=2500" alt="A woman gestures while speaking to seated, masked elderly individuals outdoors. Urban setting, sunny day." class="wp-image-253740"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayor London Breed chats with seniors in Chinatown on Jan. 26, 2023.</figcaption></figure>

“There’s frustration about San Francisco, safety, downtown recovery,” Wang said, “and it’s falling unfairly on her.”

“There’s frustration about San Francisco, safety, downtown recovery,” Wang said, “and it’s falling unfairly on her.”

Wang criticized both Lurie and Farrell as having no track record of working with and supporting the Asian American community.

Wang criticized both Lurie and Farrell as having no track record of working with and supporting the Asian American community.

Lydia So, who serves on the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency Board of Directors, expects four more years of Breed’s leadership, citing her growth over the past five years despite challenges.

Lydia So, who serves on the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency Board of Directors, expects four more years of Breed’s leadership, citing her growth over the past five years despite challenges.

But So added that the mayor and supervisors need to cooperate. Managing the city is defined by teamwork, not partisan ideology, she said.

But So added that the mayor and supervisors need to cooperate. Managing the city is defined by teamwork, not partisan ideology, she said.

Mary Jung, a Democratic Party powerbroker and a moderate leader, said Breed successfully steered the city through a once-in-a-lifetime pandemic, resulting in a lower death rate compared <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2020/08/08/how-san-francisco-beat-other-us-cities-in-fighting-the-coronavirus.html">to other major cities</a>.&nbsp;

Mary Jung, a Democratic Party powerbroker and a moderate leader, said Breed successfully steered the city through a once-in-a-lifetime pandemic, resulting in a lower death rate compared <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2020/08/08/how-san-francisco-beat-other-us-cities-in-fighting-the-coronavirus.html">to other major cities</a>.&nbsp;

Jung also shot fire at other candidates, saying they were “missing in action” while Breed was doing the hard work, facing incredible challenges.

Jung also shot fire at other candidates, saying they were “missing in action” while Breed was doing the hard work, facing incredible challenges.

“It’s easy to criticize,” Jung said. “It’s much harder to lead.”

“It’s easy to criticize,” Jung said. “It’s much harder to lead.”

Inside the cutthroat race to win over San Francisco’s frustrated Asian voters

When news broke that President Joe Biden was ending his campaign and endorsing Kamala Harris, San Francisco <a href="https://x.com/Scott_Wiener/status/1815161698447180076">politicians</a> <a href="https://x.com/AaronPeskin/status/1815188620007141717">across the spectrum</a> scrambled to <a href="https://x.com/mattdorsey/status/1815163108698276293">post old photos</a> with the vice president and express support for her.

When news broke that President Joe Biden was ending his campaign and endorsing Kamala Harris, San Francisco <a href="https://x.com/Scott_Wiener/status/1815161698447180076">politicians</a> <a href="https://x.com/AaronPeskin/status/1815188620007141717">across the spectrum</a> scrambled to <a href="https://x.com/mattdorsey/status/1815163108698276293">post old photos</a> with the vice president and express support for her.

Mayor London Breed — who’s in the middle of a tough reelection fight — stands out as one of the vice president’s closest allies and biggest cheerleaders. Local observers are wondering whether the mayor will be able to leverage her ties to Harris to pick up voter support.

Mayor London Breed — who’s in the middle of a tough reelection fight — stands out as one of the vice president’s closest allies and biggest cheerleaders. Local observers are wondering whether the mayor will be able to leverage her ties to Harris to pick up voter support.

“There are some analogies that can be drawn between Kamala Harris and London Breed as Black women leaders,” said Nancy Tung, chair of the San Francisco Democratic Party, who has endorsed Breed in the mayoral campaign.

“There are some analogies that can be drawn between Kamala Harris and London Breed as Black women leaders,” said Nancy Tung, chair of the San Francisco Democratic Party, who has endorsed Breed in the mayoral campaign.

Breed has long touted Harris’ early endorsement when she first ran for supervisor. Additionally, in 2018, Harris, then a U.S. senator, endorsed Breed’s first mayoral bid. But now, the timing could be tricky for Harris to endorse Breed again, as every move by the presumed Democratic presidential nominee will face extra scrutiny. “It’ll be interesting to see if Kamala Harris will publicly endorse her,” said Tung.

Breed has long touted Harris’ early endorsement when she first ran for supervisor. Additionally, in 2018, Harris, then a U.S. senator, endorsed Breed’s first mayoral bid. But now, the timing could be tricky for Harris to endorse Breed again, as every move by the presumed Democratic presidential nominee will face extra scrutiny. “It’ll be interesting to see if Kamala Harris will publicly endorse her,” said Tung.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-harris-breed-mailer">A Harris-Breed mailer?</h2>

At a rally Thursday celebrating her sole endorsement from the San Francisco Democratic Party, Breed took pains to link her mayoral campaign with Harris’ run for the presidency.&nbsp;

At a rally Thursday celebrating her sole endorsement from the San Francisco Democratic Party, Breed took pains to link her mayoral campaign with Harris’ run for the presidency.&nbsp;

“To San Franciscans and Democrats everywhere, we have an opportunity not just here locally,” Breed said, “but we have an opportunity nationally to make sure that we’re not moving backward.”

“To San Franciscans and Democrats everywhere, we have an opportunity not just here locally,” Breed said, “but we have an opportunity nationally to make sure that we’re not moving backward.”

The San Francisco Democratic Party will send its endorsement results to voters in mailers. When asked if Harris’ and Breed’s images will appear on a mailer together, Tung said, &#8220;Potentially.&#8221; In a statement, Breed’s campaign avoided the question about a potential Harris endorsement, declaring that the focus is on helping Harris defeat their mutual enemy: Donald Trump.

The San Francisco Democratic Party will send its endorsement results to voters in mailers. When asked if Harris’ and Breed’s images will appear on a mailer together, Tung said, "Potentially." In a statement, Breed’s campaign avoided the question about a potential Harris endorsement, declaring that the focus is on helping Harris defeat their mutual enemy: Donald Trump.

The San Francisco Democratic Party will send its endorsement results to voters in mailers. When asked if Harris’ and Breed’s images will appear on a mailer together, Tung said, &#8220;Potentially.&#8221; In a statement, Breed’s campaign avoided the question about a potential Harris endorsement, declaring that the focus is on helping Harris defeat their mutual enemy: Donald Trump.

“Donald Trump poses an existential threat to democracy, women’s rights, LGBT rights and minorities,” Breed campaign spokesman Joe Arellano said in a statement. “Mayor Breed will do everything she can to help her friend and ensure that San Francisco continues to serve as a firewall to right-wing MAGA policies.”

“Donald Trump poses an existential threat to democracy, women’s rights, LGBT rights and minorities,” Breed campaign spokesman Joe Arellano said in a statement. “Mayor Breed will do everything she can to help her friend and ensure that San Francisco continues to serve as a firewall to right-wing MAGA policies.”

Breed, as a California delegate, will attend the Democratic National Convention in August in Chicago to support Harris.

Breed, as a California delegate, will attend the Democratic National Convention in August in Chicago to support Harris.

Breed’s closeness to the vice president hasn’t stopped other mayoral candidates from jumping on the Harris bandwagon. Mark Farrell, a former mayor and supervisor who is leading Breed in some polls, quietly <a href="https://x.com/MarkFarrellSF">added a coconut emoji</a> to his X profile last week. <a href="https://www.msnbc.com/opinion/msnbc-opinion/kamala-harris-coconut-tree-meme-explains-vital-truth-2024-election-rcna163682">The reference to the Harris meme</a> was an apparent effort to absorb some of the energy around the vice president’s candidacy for his campaign.

Breed’s closeness to the vice president hasn’t stopped other mayoral candidates from jumping on the Harris bandwagon. Mark Farrell, a former mayor and supervisor who is leading Breed in some polls, quietly <a href="https://x.com/MarkFarrellSF">added a coconut emoji</a> to his X profile last week. <a href="https://www.msnbc.com/opinion/msnbc-opinion/kamala-harris-coconut-tree-meme-explains-vital-truth-2024-election-rcna163682">The reference to the Harris meme</a> was an apparent effort to absorb some of the energy around the vice president’s candidacy for his campaign.

Jason McDaniel, an associate professor of political science at San Francisco State University, was skeptical about Harris’ influence boosting Breed’s campaign, believing that the Harris-Trump battle will eat up most of the fundraising energy and media attention.

Jason McDaniel, an associate professor of political science at San Francisco State University, was skeptical about Harris’ influence boosting Breed’s campaign, believing that the Harris-Trump battle will eat up most of the fundraising energy and media attention.

He agreed that Breed will have a chance to build momentum by aligning herself with Harris, but San Franciscans will vote based on local policy.&nbsp;

He agreed that Breed will have a chance to build momentum by aligning herself with Harris, but San Franciscans will vote based on local policy.&nbsp;

“Most people are going to vote [in the mayoral race] based on their feelings of the city,” McDaniel said. “It’s not going to be about Kamala Harris necessarily.”

“Most people are going to vote [in the mayoral race] based on their feelings of the city,” McDaniel said. “It’s not going to be about Kamala Harris necessarily.”

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

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

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>.

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.

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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.

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