Gabe Greschler

Adding fuel to the fire over how San Francisco should handle its deadly fentanyl crisis, mayoral candidate Mark Farrell on Thursday called for deploying armed National Guard troops in the Tenderloin and South of Market neighborhoods.&nbsp;

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Adding fuel to the fire over how San Francisco should handle its deadly fentanyl crisis, mayoral candidate Mark Farrell on Thursday called for deploying armed National Guard troops in the Tenderloin and South of Market neighborhoods.&nbsp;

Farrell, a former interim mayor and city supervisor who has carved out the most tough-on-crime lane among the three leading moderate candidates in the November mayor’s race, also said that if elected he would declare a state of emergency targeting the drug crisis. He has <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/12/san-francisco-mayoral-candidate-mark-farrell/">previously called for a citywide street vending ban and for putting retired cops back on the street</a>.&nbsp;

Farrell wants citywide street vending ban, and retired cops back on the beat

Farrell, a former interim mayor and city supervisor who has carved out the most tough-on-crime lane among the three leading moderate candidates in the November mayor’s race, also said that if elected he would declare a state of emergency targeting the drug crisis. He has <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/12/san-francisco-mayoral-candidate-mark-farrell/">previously called for a citywide street vending ban and for putting retired cops back on the street</a>.&nbsp;

“The conditions on our streets have never been worse,” said Farrell in an interview. “The drug crisis has never been worse.”&nbsp;

“The conditions on our streets have never been worse,” said Farrell in an interview. “The drug crisis has never been worse.”&nbsp;

San Francisco experienced a record-breaking 806 fatal overdoses in 2023, though not all of the deaths were attributed to fentanyl.&nbsp;

San Francisco experienced a record-breaking 806 fatal overdoses in 2023, though not all of the deaths were attributed to fentanyl.&nbsp;

Farrell’s announcement comes a day after rival candidate Daniel Lurie, a nonprofit leader and Levi’s heir, unveiled <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/27/fentanyl-state-of-emergency-mayoral-san-francisco/">a similar state of emergency proposal</a>, though he did not call for National Guard troops.&nbsp;

A ‘fentanyl state of emergency’? Mayoral candidates argue over plan

Farrell’s announcement comes a day after rival candidate Daniel Lurie, a nonprofit leader and Levi’s heir, unveiled <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/27/fentanyl-state-of-emergency-mayoral-san-francisco/">a similar state of emergency proposal</a>, though he did not call for National Guard troops.&nbsp;

Daniel Lurie poses for a portrait after a press conference at the Petrero Hill Neighborhood House in San Francisco on Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023. Earlier in the day, Lurie filed paperwork officially announcing his candidacy for mayor. Lurie is challenging Mayor London Breed for the position.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/LurieForMayor09262023__0820.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man in a shirt and tie sits cross-armed near a podium with &quot;Daniel Lurie for Mayor&quot; signs." class="wp-image-204934"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Daniel Lurie has also proposed a state of emergency targeting the fentanyl crisis.</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/LurieForMayor09262023__0820.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man in a shirt and tie sits cross-armed near a podium with &quot;Daniel Lurie for Mayor&quot; signs." class="wp-image-204934"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Daniel Lurie has also proposed a state of emergency targeting the fentanyl crisis.</figcaption></figure>

Joe Arellano, a spokesperson for Mayor London Breed’s reelection campaign, slammed the idea of deploying National Guard members on the streets.&nbsp;

Joe Arellano, a spokesperson for Mayor London Breed’s reelection campaign, slammed the idea of deploying National Guard members on the streets.&nbsp;

“In Mark Farrell’s San Francisco, armed National Guard troops will fence off the Tenderloin and create the Green Zone, truly creating a Baghdad by the Bay,” Arellano said. “Residents and commuters aren’t looking for a police state. They want a leader that will meaningfully address the fentanyl crisis with enforcement and compassion, not Humvees and AR-15s.”

“In Mark Farrell’s San Francisco, armed National Guard troops will fence off the Tenderloin and create the Green Zone, truly creating a Baghdad by the Bay,” Arellano said. “Residents and commuters aren’t looking for a police state. They want a leader that will meaningfully address the fentanyl crisis with enforcement and compassion, not Humvees and AR-15s.”

Exactly what a state of emergency would enable is unclear. In the past, <a href="https://sfmayor.org/article/mayor-london-breed-declares-state-emergency-tenderloin">the city has used such declarations</a> to get around certain bureaucratic barriers like contracting, zoning and planning rules to get facilities open rapidly.

Exactly what a state of emergency would enable is unclear. In the past, <a href="https://sfmayor.org/article/mayor-london-breed-declares-state-emergency-tenderloin">the city has used such declarations</a> to get around certain bureaucratic barriers like contracting, zoning and planning rules to get facilities open rapidly.

Both Lurie and Farrell said they would utilize the special powers offered by the state of emergency to fast-track resources toward offering services to drug users.&nbsp;

Both Lurie and Farrell said they would utilize the special powers offered by the state of emergency to fast-track resources toward offering services to drug users.&nbsp;

Besides Breed, some addiction experts criticized such an aggressive approach and questioned the feasibility of the plans.&nbsp;

Besides Breed, some addiction experts criticized such an aggressive approach and questioned the feasibility of the plans.&nbsp;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-proposals-beyond-the-national-guard">Proposals beyond the National Guard</h2>

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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-proposals-beyond-the-national-guard">Proposals beyond the National Guard</h2>

In addition to the troops and the emergency declaration, Farrell said he would also like to open a center that’s accessible 24 hours a day and offers shelter space and referrals for treatment. The campaign did not release a specific location for the facility.

In addition to the troops and the emergency declaration, Farrell said he would also like to open a center that’s accessible 24 hours a day and offers shelter space and referrals for treatment. The campaign did not release a specific location for the facility.

He said the city should take advantage of city-owned sites outside of San Francisco to have drug users get help, perhaps repurposing Log Cabin Ranch, a facility in San Mateo County previously used for troubled youth. He also wants to mandate treatment for anyone who is revived on the streets with Narcan, a nasal spray that can reverse overdoses.

He said the city should take advantage of city-owned sites outside of San Francisco to have drug users get help, perhaps repurposing Log Cabin Ranch, a facility in San Mateo County previously used for troubled youth. He also wants to mandate treatment for anyone who is revived on the streets with Narcan, a nasal spray that can reverse overdoses.

The Department of Public Health <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/17/overdose-reversal-narcan-guide/">distributed over 100,000 doses</a> of Narcan between January and September 2023, according to city data. <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/08/overdoses-narcan-fentanyl/">Ambulances responded to 3,497 likely overdoses over the first seven months of last year</a>. The city doesn’t require paramedics who are responding to an overdose call to take the person to the hospital if they refuse or are capable of understanding their decision, according to policy reviewed by The Standard.

San Francisco is experiencing a record number of drug overdoses. Here&#8217;s how to reverse one

San Francisco reverses hundreds of overdoses a month: what happens next?

The Department of Public Health <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/17/overdose-reversal-narcan-guide/">distributed over 100,000 doses</a> of Narcan between January and September 2023, according to city data. <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/08/overdoses-narcan-fentanyl/">Ambulances responded to 3,497 likely overdoses over the first seven months of last year</a>. The city doesn’t require paramedics who are responding to an overdose call to take the person to the hospital if they refuse or are capable of understanding their decision, according to policy reviewed by The Standard.

Narcan as displayed in The Standard’s photo studio on Dec. 9, 2022. | Mike Kuba/The Standard

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/WhereToGetNarcan120222-8-1.jpg?w=2048" alt="A hand holds a packaged Narcan nasal spray, a medication used to reverse opioid overdoses." class="wp-image-107259"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mark Farrell is proposing mandated treatment for those who have been revived by Narcan, a nasal spray that can reverse overdoses. | Mike Kuba/The Standard</figcaption></figure>

With the city facing a budget crunch, Farrell suggests reallocating money from other city departments toward drug treatment. When asked which departments he envisioned being affected, he said he would take from the city’s community health and welfare budgets. Though he did not commit to a dollar figure, he said he wants to prioritize programs that are in the business of “saving lives.”

With the city facing a budget crunch, Farrell suggests reallocating money from other city departments toward drug treatment. When asked which departments he envisioned being affected, he said he would take from the city’s community health and welfare budgets. Though he did not commit to a dollar figure, he said he wants to prioritize programs that are in the business of “saving lives.”

Last year, Breed and Gov. Gavin Newsom <a href="https://www.gov.ca.gov/2023/06/29/chp-expansion/">unveiled a joint law enforcement task force</a> to investigate opioid-linked deaths and poisonings in the city that included the California Highway Patrol and the California National Guard, as well as the San Francisco Police Department. <a href="https://www.gov.ca.gov/2023/10/27/sf-opioid-task-force/">At the time, Maj. Gen. Matthew Beevers said California Guard analysts would</a> “work behind the scenes to connect the dots—to identify dealers, suppliers and traffickers so law enforcement can secure justice.”&nbsp;

Last year, Breed and Gov. Gavin Newsom <a href="https://www.gov.ca.gov/2023/06/29/chp-expansion/">unveiled a joint law enforcement task force</a> to investigate opioid-linked deaths and poisonings in the city that included the California Highway Patrol and the California National Guard, as well as the San Francisco Police Department. <a href="https://www.gov.ca.gov/2023/10/27/sf-opioid-task-force/">At the time, Maj. Gen. Matthew Beevers said California Guard analysts would</a> “work behind the scenes to connect the dots—to identify dealers, suppliers and traffickers so law enforcement can secure justice.”&nbsp;

Deploying National Guard troops on the streets would be a significant escalation of the force’s involvement. New York’s governor recently sent hundreds of National Guard troops and state troopers into the New York City subway in an attempt to improve public safety.&nbsp;

Deploying National Guard troops on the streets would be a significant escalation of the force’s involvement. New York’s governor recently sent hundreds of National Guard troops and state troopers into the New York City subway in an attempt to improve public safety.&nbsp;

A spokesperson for Farrell’s campaign said it was too early to say how many National Guard members he believes are needed or how many staff members would be required to run the 24/7 shelter and treatment referral center.&nbsp;

A spokesperson for Farrell’s campaign said it was too early to say how many National Guard members he believes are needed or how many staff members would be required to run the 24/7 shelter and treatment referral center.&nbsp;

A spokesperson for the California Military Department declined to say how many National Guard members have worked with the city in combating the fentanyl crisis.

A spokesperson for the California Military Department declined to say how many National Guard members have worked with the city in combating the fentanyl crisis.

Breed declared state of emergency in 2021

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breed-declared-state-of-emergency-in-2021">Breed declared state of emergency in 2021</h2>

Breed declared a state of emergency in the Tenderloin in December 2021 and created the Tenderloin Center, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/11/17/city-funded-survey-says-the-tenderloin-center-improved-the-neighborhood-others-arent-convinced/">which was aimed at getting drug users treatment </a>but ended up becoming a de facto safe injection site where illicit substances were being used openly. It closed a year later.

City-funded survey says the Tenderloin Center improved the neighborhood. Many are unconvinced

Breed declared a state of emergency in the Tenderloin in December 2021 and created the Tenderloin Center, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/11/17/city-funded-survey-says-the-tenderloin-center-improved-the-neighborhood-others-arent-convinced/">which was aimed at getting drug users treatment </a>but ended up becoming a de facto safe injection site where illicit substances were being used openly. It closed a year later.

Keith Humphreys, a drug addiction expert and professor at Stanford University, said he felt that while Farrell’s proposals could be effective, much would depend on the execution.&nbsp;

Keith Humphreys, a drug addiction expert and professor at Stanford University, said he felt that while Farrell’s proposals could be effective, much would depend on the execution.&nbsp;

“It’s pretty broad and underdeveloped,” said Humphreys. “It’s more of a promissory note.”

“It’s pretty broad and underdeveloped,” said Humphreys. “It’s more of a promissory note.”

Humphreys said he does support an emergency declaration if its powers are used effectively. In addition, he saw merit in the idea of a 24/7 center—if it steers people into treatment—and in relocating people away from San Francisco to get help, provided there is a plan for what to do after they receive care. But the Stanford professor cautioned against bringing in National Guard troops to the city.

Humphreys said he does support an emergency declaration if its powers are used effectively. In addition, he saw merit in the idea of a 24/7 center—if it steers people into treatment—and in relocating people away from San Francisco to get help, provided there is a plan for what to do after they receive care. But the Stanford professor cautioned against bringing in National Guard troops to the city.

Gina McDonald, a member of Mothers Against Drug Addiction and Deaths who consulted on Farrell’s proposals, said she was “grateful” that he is calling for an emergency declaration.

Gina McDonald, a member of Mothers Against Drug Addiction and Deaths who consulted on Farrell’s proposals, said she was “grateful” that he is calling for an emergency declaration.

“(Around 800) people died last year,” she said. “That’s unfathomable.”

“(Around 800) people died last year,” she said. “That’s unfathomable.”

Farrell calls for armed National Guard troops in San Francisco to fight fentanyl

Josh Koehn

<a href="https://sfstandard.com/search/?query=mark%20farrell">Mark Farrell</a>, the 44th mayor of San Francisco, filed paperwork Monday with the Department of Elections to challenge <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/06/20/london-breed-mayor-san-francisco-drugs-homelessness-crime-economy-election/">Mayor London Breed</a> in November and reclaim his old job.

London Breed saved herself. Can she save San Francisco?

<a href="https://sfstandard.com/search/?query=mark%20farrell">Mark Farrell</a>, the 44th mayor of San Francisco, filed paperwork Monday with the Department of Elections to challenge <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/06/20/london-breed-mayor-san-francisco-drugs-homelessness-crime-economy-election/">Mayor London Breed</a> in November and reclaim his old job.

His <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/29/mark-farrell-san-francisco-mayor-race-london-breed-2024/">long-anticipated candidacy</a> is still listed as &#8220;pending&#8221; on the elections department&#8217;s website, either because Farrell has yet to completely file all nomination documents or pay the necessary fees. However, records on the San Francisco Ethics Commission website also show that an initial filing for a committee called &#8220;Mark Farrell for Mayor 2024&#8221; was submitted Feb. 5.

Mark Farrell, ex-San Francisco mayor, could challenge London Breed in 2024

His <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/29/mark-farrell-san-francisco-mayor-race-london-breed-2024/">long-anticipated candidacy</a> is still listed as "pending" on the elections department's website, either because Farrell has yet to completely file all nomination documents or pay the necessary fees. However, records on the San Francisco Ethics Commission website also show that an initial filing for a committee called "Mark Farrell for Mayor 2024" was submitted Feb. 5.

His <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/29/mark-farrell-san-francisco-mayor-race-london-breed-2024/">long-anticipated candidacy</a> is still listed as &#8220;pending&#8221; on the elections department&#8217;s website, either because Farrell has yet to completely file all nomination documents or pay the necessary fees. However, records on the San Francisco Ethics Commission website also show that an initial filing for a committee called &#8220;Mark Farrell for Mayor 2024&#8221; was submitted Feb. 5.

Farrell&#8217;s entrance into the mayor&#8217;s race has been months in the making. A website called &#8220;Draft Mayor Mark&#8221; was created last year, and The Standard reported earlier this month that the 49-year-old managing director of Thayer Ventures—an investment firm focused on travel and transportation technology—was <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/02/former-san-francisco-mayor-mark-farrell-will-challege-london-breed/">recruiting people to appear in his campaign ads</a>.

Mark Farrell will run to be San Francisco’s mayor again, sources say

Farrell's entrance into the mayor's race has been months in the making. A website called "Draft Mayor Mark" was created last year, and The Standard reported earlier this month that the 49-year-old managing director of Thayer Ventures—an investment firm focused on travel and transportation technology—was <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/02/former-san-francisco-mayor-mark-farrell-will-challege-london-breed/">recruiting people to appear in his campaign ads</a>.

Farrell&#8217;s entrance into the mayor&#8217;s race has been months in the making. A website called &#8220;Draft Mayor Mark&#8221; was created last year, and The Standard reported earlier this month that the 49-year-old managing director of Thayer Ventures—an investment firm focused on travel and transportation technology—was <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/02/former-san-francisco-mayor-mark-farrell-will-challege-london-breed/">recruiting people to appear in his campaign ads</a>.

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Following the death of Mayor Ed Lee in December 2017, Farrell served as mayor for six months. He succeeded Breed—who was named acting mayor in the immediate aftermath of Lee&#8217;s passing—through a controversial appointment by the Board of Supervisors, where Farrell served for seven years representing the Marina District.

Following the death of Mayor Ed Lee in December 2017, Farrell served as mayor for six months. He succeeded Breed—who was named acting mayor in the immediate aftermath of Lee's passing—through a controversial appointment by the Board of Supervisors, where Farrell served for seven years representing the Marina District.

Following the death of Mayor Ed Lee in December 2017, Farrell served as mayor for six months. He succeeded Breed—who was named acting mayor in the immediate aftermath of Lee&#8217;s passing—through a controversial appointment by the Board of Supervisors, where Farrell served for seven years representing the Marina District.

Farrell has some catching up to do in the mayor’s race, with multiple serious contenders already in the race. Breed, Supervisor Ahsha Safaí and nonprofit founder Daniel Lurie have all been running campaigns since last year.

Farrell has some catching up to do in the mayor’s race, with multiple serious contenders already in the race. Breed, Supervisor Ahsha Safaí and nonprofit founder Daniel Lurie have all been running campaigns since last year.

Farrell&#8217;s associates did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Farrell's associates did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Farrell&#8217;s associates did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

He’s back: Mark Farrell files paperwork to run for mayor of San Francisco

Han Li

For a brief window of time, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/29/mark-farrell-san-francisco-mayor-race-london-breed-2024/">Mark Farrell</a> was mayor of San Francisco. Apparently, that six months of running City Hall weren’t enough.

For a brief window of time, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/29/mark-farrell-san-francisco-mayor-race-london-breed-2024/">Mark Farrell</a> was mayor of San Francisco. Apparently, that six months of running City Hall weren’t enough.

Multiple sources have confirmed to The Standard that Farrell—a San Francisco native who also served seven years as a supervisor for the Marina District—will challenge <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/06/20/london-breed-mayor-san-francisco-drugs-homelessness-crime-economy-election/">Mayor London Breed</a> in November’s election. Farrell is expected to make a formal announcement in the next two weeks.&nbsp;

Multiple sources have confirmed to The Standard that Farrell—a San Francisco native who also served seven years as a supervisor for the Marina District—will challenge <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/06/20/london-breed-mayor-san-francisco-drugs-homelessness-crime-economy-election/">Mayor London Breed</a> in November’s election. Farrell is expected to make a formal announcement in the next two weeks.&nbsp;

Farrell, 49, has been recruiting people to appear in his campaign ads, according to sources. Among those contacted was a business owner from the city’s Asian American community, which accounts for one-third of San Francisco residents. Farrell also has been receiving help from Margaux Kelly—a top exec for the nonprofit <a href="https://sfstandard.com/search/?query=togethersf">TogetherSF</a> and one of his former supervisor staffers—to arrange meetings and coordinate his schedule, according to a City Hall source.&nbsp;

Farrell, 49, has been recruiting people to appear in his campaign ads, according to sources. Among those contacted was a business owner from the city’s Asian American community, which accounts for one-third of San Francisco residents. Farrell also has been receiving help from Margaux Kelly—a top exec for the nonprofit <a href="https://sfstandard.com/search/?query=togethersf">TogetherSF</a> and one of his former supervisor staffers—to arrange meetings and coordinate his schedule, according to a City Hall source.&nbsp;

San Francisco Mayor Mark Farrell speaks to union members during a rally outside of San Francisco City Hall on February 26, 2018. Hundreds of union members held a rally outside of San Francisco City Hall as the US Supreme Court begins to hear oral arguments in the Janus V. AFSCME case that union members and supporters claim would limit their right to union representation by allowing members to not pay dues but still receive representation.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/inlined-mayor-mark-farrell-2.jpg?w=2500" alt="Mark Farrell speaks." class="wp-image-245452"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Former San Francisco Mayor Mark Farrell is expected to join the race to get his old job in mid-February.</figcaption></figure>

Farrell has some catching up to do in the mayor’s race, as the field of serious contenders has now grown to four. Breed, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/07/26/ahsha-safai-raises-149k-in-sf-mayor-race/">Supervisor Ahsha Safaí</a> and nonprofit founder Daniel Lurie have all been running campaigns since last year. These three candidates, in addition to the independent committees supporting Breed and Lurie, have already combined to raise more than $4.8 million, according to campaign records.

San Francisco mayor’s race: London Breed challenger raises $149K, campaign says

Farrell has some catching up to do in the mayor’s race, as the field of serious contenders has now grown to four. Breed, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/07/26/ahsha-safai-raises-149k-in-sf-mayor-race/">Supervisor Ahsha Safaí</a> and nonprofit founder Daniel Lurie have all been running campaigns since last year. These three candidates, in addition to the independent committees supporting Breed and Lurie, have already combined to raise more than $4.8 million, according to campaign records.

Farrell currently works as the managing director of Thayer Ventures, an early-stage technology investment firm that he co-founded before his election to the Board of Supervisors in 2011. In early 2018, he became San Francisco’s 44th mayor following the sudden death of Ed Lee.&nbsp;

Farrell currently works as the managing director of Thayer Ventures, an early-stage technology investment firm that he co-founded before his election to the Board of Supervisors in 2011. In early 2018, he became San Francisco’s 44th mayor following the sudden death of Ed Lee.&nbsp;

Breed, who was the president of the Board of Supervisors at the time, was briefly elevated to acting mayor before <a href="https://www.kqed.org/news/11643930/political-outrage-as-mark-farrell-replaces-london-breed-as-s-f-s-acting-mayor">a contentious Board of Supervisors vote</a> installed Farrell as the city’s top official. He served in this capacity until Breed won a special election and was sworn in as mayor in July 2018.

Breed, who was the president of the Board of Supervisors at the time, was briefly elevated to acting mayor before <a href="https://www.kqed.org/news/11643930/political-outrage-as-mark-farrell-replaces-london-breed-as-s-f-s-acting-mayor">a contentious Board of Supervisors vote</a> installed Farrell as the city’s top official. He served in this capacity until Breed won a special election and was sworn in as mayor in July 2018.

Rumors of a Farrell candidacy have been percolating since September. His name appeared as a possible candidate in at least one poll the following month. A group of supporters also launched a <a href="https://www.draftmayormark.com/">“Draft Mayor Mark”</a> website urging him to run as a moderate alternative to Breed.&nbsp;

Rumors of a Farrell candidacy have been percolating since September. His name appeared as a possible candidate in at least one poll the following month. A group of supporters also launched a <a href="https://www.draftmayormark.com/">“Draft Mayor Mark”</a> website urging him to run as a moderate alternative to Breed.&nbsp;

Farrell will need to carve out a lane distinct from Lurie, as multiple political insiders noted that the two have similar moderate policy platforms and overlapping supporters. Like Lurie, Farrell has <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/30/daniel-lurie-mom-spends-million-dollars-san-francisco-mayor-race/">considerable wealth and connections</a>, which should allow him to quickly assemble a competitive campaign.

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

Farrell will need to carve out a lane distinct from Lurie, as multiple political insiders noted that the two have similar moderate policy platforms and overlapping supporters. Like Lurie, Farrell has <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/30/daniel-lurie-mom-spends-million-dollars-san-francisco-mayor-race/">considerable wealth and connections</a>, which should allow him to quickly assemble a competitive campaign.

Farrell and Kelly did not respond to The Standard’s requests for comment on Friday. However, in a text message back in November, Farrell said that he was “deeply concerned about the state and future of our city.”

Farrell and Kelly did not respond to The Standard’s requests for comment on Friday. However, in a text message back in November, Farrell said that he was “deeply concerned about the state and future of our city.”

“San Francisco cannot afford to continue down the path we have been on, and we all deserve better from City Hall,” he said. “Any decision I make about the future will not be taken lightly.”

“San Francisco cannot afford to continue down the path we have been on, and we all deserve better from City Hall,” he said. “Any decision I make about the future will not be taken lightly.”

Interim San Francisco Mayor Mark Farrell gestures while speaking in City Hall in San Francisco on April 26, 2018.  Farrell  says he plans to send a medical team to city streets to distribute a drug that helps stop heroin cravings to homeless addicts. Distributing Suboxone on city streets, which Mayor Mark Farrell says will be the first program of its kind in the country, is the city's latest effort to address heroin addiction.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/inlined-mayor-mark-farrell.jpg?w=2500" alt="Mark Farrell talks." class="wp-image-245451"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mark Farrell took an aggressive approach to clearing homeless encampments during his time as mayor of San Francisco in the first half of 2018.</figcaption></figure>

Farrell was first elected to the Board of Supervisors in 2011, succeeding Michela Alioto-Pier and representing the Marina and other northern neighborhoods. Serving in that office until January 2018, when the board voted to appoint him as mayor, he was succeeded as supervisor by his legislative aide, Catherine Stefani.&nbsp;

Farrell was first elected to the Board of Supervisors in 2011, succeeding Michela Alioto-Pier and representing the Marina and other northern neighborhoods. Serving in that office until January 2018, when the board voted to appoint him as mayor, he was succeeded as supervisor by his legislative aide, Catherine Stefani.&nbsp;

As a San Francisco native and political moderate with a background in venture capital, Farrell sparred with progressives during his tenure as mayor, pushing policies that included hiring 250 more police officers and an “aggressive crackdown” on street encampments.&nbsp;

As a San Francisco native and political moderate with a background in venture capital, Farrell sparred with progressives during his tenure as mayor, pushing policies that included hiring 250 more police officers and an “aggressive crackdown” on street encampments.&nbsp;

With a crowded field of moderate candidates, many political observers have wondered who will emerge as the leading progressive candidate for mayor.

With a crowded field of moderate candidates, many political observers have wondered who will emerge as the leading progressive candidate for mayor.

Safaí has been courting the support of labor unions, while many continue to believe Supervisor Aaron Peskin, who currently serves as president of the Board of Supervisors, will jump into the race after the March primary.

Safaí has been courting the support of labor unions, while many continue to believe Supervisor Aaron Peskin, who currently serves as president of the Board of Supervisors, will jump into the race after the March primary.

Peskin, however, recently indicated to the Standard that <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/26/san-francisco-progressive-supervisor-aaron-peskin-not-running-mayor/">he was not interested in jumping into the race</a>.&nbsp;

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

Peskin, however, recently indicated to the Standard that <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/26/san-francisco-progressive-supervisor-aaron-peskin-not-running-mayor/">he was not interested in jumping into the race</a>.&nbsp;

“I’m not afraid of losing,” Peskin said. “I’m afraid of winning.”

“I’m not afraid of losing,” Peskin said. “I’m afraid of winning.”

It appears Farrell shares no such fears.

<a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/12/mark-farrell-files-paperwork-mayor-of-san-francisco/">Mark Farrell</a> held a press conference at a baseball batting cage facility Tuesday morning to formally announce his campaign to once again become mayor of San Francisco.

He&#8217;s back: Mark Farrell files paperwork to run for mayor of San Francisco

<a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/12/mark-farrell-files-paperwork-mayor-of-san-francisco/">Mark Farrell</a> held a press conference at a baseball batting cage facility Tuesday morning to formally announce his campaign to once again become mayor of San Francisco.

The setting seemed apt for a father of three who helps coach his kids’ sports teams, but it could also be indicative of a candidate who intends to take some whacks at his opponents and all that he sees wrong with the city.

The setting seemed apt for a father of three who helps coach his kids’ sports teams, but it could also be indicative of a candidate who intends to take some whacks at his opponents and all that he sees wrong with the city.

Farrell, the 44th mayor of San Francisco and a former Marina District supervisor, laid out his positions and potential plans in an interview with The Standard prior to the news conference, leaving little doubt that he intends to shake up the mayor’s race with an aggressive campaign.

Farrell, the 44th mayor of San Francisco and a former Marina District supervisor, laid out his positions and potential plans in an interview with The Standard prior to the news conference, leaving little doubt that he intends to shake up the mayor’s race with an aggressive campaign.

He promised to fire <a href="https://sfstandard.com/search/?query=bill%20scott">Police Chief Bill Scott</a> on “day one,” clear homeless tent encampments within months, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/05/san-francisco-market-street-pandemic-big-plans-collapsed/">open Market Street back up to cars</a> and audit nonprofits to make sure taxpayer money isn’t going to waste.

Did car-free Market Street kill San Francisco’s most important boulevard?

He promised to fire <a href="https://sfstandard.com/search/?query=bill%20scott">Police Chief Bill Scott</a> on “day one,” clear homeless tent encampments within months, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/05/san-francisco-market-street-pandemic-big-plans-collapsed/">open Market Street back up to cars</a> and audit nonprofits to make sure taxpayer money isn’t going to waste.

What is Mark Farrell’s strategy to win?

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-mark-farrell-s-strategy-to-win">What is Mark Farrell’s strategy to win?</h2>

Farrell intends to defeat Mayor London Breed—and others—by embracing aggressive positions on policing and homelessness. Call it a little fire and brimstone with a hint of nostalgia. Farrell will specifically blast Breed’s public safety record and inability to boost the ranks of the police department.

Farrell intends to defeat Mayor London Breed—and others—by embracing aggressive positions on policing and homelessness. Call it a little fire and brimstone with a hint of nostalgia. Farrell will specifically blast Breed’s public safety record and inability to boost the ranks of the police department.

“I have watched San Francisco crumble over the last five years since I left City Hall,” Farrell said. “People don’t feel safe. The condition of our streets has never been worse. And our local economy has collapsed. And we’ve become the butt of jokes across the country.”

“I have watched San Francisco crumble over the last five years since I left City Hall,” Farrell said. “People don’t feel safe. The condition of our streets has never been worse. And our local economy has collapsed. And we’ve become the butt of jokes across the country.”

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, 2024. 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/2024/02/20240205farrellmayor008.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man speaks in front of microphones as supporters holding campaign signs reading &quot;Mark Farrell for mayor&quot; stand in the background." class="wp-image-249200"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Flanked by supporters, Farrell pledged to crack down on crime and shore up Downtown if elected mayor.</figcaption></figure>

Polling shows that many voters consider <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/28/crime-rate-san-francisco-2023-property-crime-car-thefts/">public safety</a> to be a top issue. While incidents of violent crime in San Francisco are lower than most major cities, the rates for property crime last year were the second-highest among major cities in California, finishing just behind Oakland. Farrell said his own house was burglarized in the middle of the night last year while he and his family were asleep in the home.

2023 San Francisco crime trends: Car thefts up, car break-ins down

Polling shows that many voters consider <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/28/crime-rate-san-francisco-2023-property-crime-car-thefts/">public safety</a> to be a top issue. While incidents of violent crime in San Francisco are lower than most major cities, the rates for property crime last year were the second-highest among major cities in California, finishing just behind Oakland. Farrell said his own house was burglarized in the middle of the night last year while he and his family were asleep in the home.

“For me, it became very personal,” he said.

“For me, it became very personal,” he said.

Farrell’s tough talk also extends to clearing homeless encampments, which was a major focus during his six months as mayor. He was <a href="https://www.kqed.org/news/11643930/political-outrage-as-mark-farrell-replaces-london-breed-as-s-f-s-acting-mayor">appointed in January 2018</a> after the sudden death of Mayor Ed Lee a month earlier due to a heart attack.

Farrell’s tough talk also extends to clearing homeless encampments, which was a major focus during his six months as mayor. He was <a href="https://www.kqed.org/news/11643930/political-outrage-as-mark-farrell-replaces-london-breed-as-s-f-s-acting-mayor">appointed in January 2018</a> after the sudden death of Mayor Ed Lee a month earlier due to a heart attack.

“As mayor, I cleared out all of our large tent encampments in six months,” Farrell said, referencing <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/article/SF-mayor-vows-that-clearing-homeless-tents-from-12864999.php">sweeps he authorized in the spring of 2018</a>. “And I will do it again. Plain and simple.”

“As mayor, I cleared out all of our large tent encampments in six months,” Farrell said, referencing <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/article/SF-mayor-vows-that-clearing-homeless-tents-from-12864999.php">sweeps he authorized in the spring of 2018</a>. “And I will do it again. Plain and simple.”

Farrell suggested the court injunction <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/07/what-to-know-about-san-franciscos-thorny-legal-battle-over-homeless-encampment-sweeps/">that has deterred San Francisco from clearing homeless</a> encampments was too broadly interpreted by the city, and it became “an excuse not to aggressively remove our tent encampments.”&nbsp;

What to know about San Francisco&#8217;s messy legal battle over homeless encampment sweeps

Farrell suggested the court injunction <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/07/what-to-know-about-san-franciscos-thorny-legal-battle-over-homeless-encampment-sweeps/">that has deterred San Francisco from clearing homeless</a> encampments was too broadly interpreted by the city, and it became “an excuse not to aggressively remove our tent encampments.”&nbsp;

A homeless encampment is seen in Tenderloin District of San Francisco, California, United States on June 6, 2023.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/inlined23_20231113homelessbeforeafter.jpg?w=2500" alt="A collection of personal belongings and tents line a city street." class="wp-image-221616"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Farrell has pledged to remove homeless encampments despite a court injunction restricting sweeps.</figcaption></figure>

“I firmly believe that the sidewalks of San Francisco belong to everybody,” Farrell said, “not just people who choose to live on our streets.”

“I firmly believe that the sidewalks of San Francisco belong to everybody,” Farrell said, “not just people who choose to live on our streets.”

Maggie Muir, a political consultant for Breed’s campaign, brushed off a challenge by Farrell and said the city is seeing progress on public safety and economic recovery.

Maggie Muir, a political consultant for Breed’s campaign, brushed off a challenge by Farrell and said the city is seeing progress on public safety and economic recovery.

“It’s easy to run, but it’s hard to lead,” Muir said. “Mayor Breed is the one who’s had to make the tough decisions, leading the city through the pandemic and its aftermath, while the others were nowhere to be found.”

“It’s easy to run, but it’s hard to lead,” Muir said. “Mayor Breed is the one who’s had to make the tough decisions, leading the city through the pandemic and its aftermath, while the others were nowhere to be found.”

Will he have the money to fund a challenge?

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-will-he-have-the-money-to-fund-a-challenge">Will he have the money to fund a challenge?</h2>

Farrell is late to the party, having announced his candidacy in mid-February, giving him less than nine months until November&#8217;s election. However, with a deep network of connections thanks to being a San Francisco native, and with his company, Thayer Ventures, being an investment firm focused on travel and transportation technology, he does not seem concerned about any fundraising deficits.

Farrell is late to the party, having announced his candidacy in mid-February, giving him less than nine months until November's election. However, with a deep network of connections thanks to being a San Francisco native, and with his company, Thayer Ventures, being an investment firm focused on travel and transportation technology, he does not seem concerned about any fundraising deficits.

Farrell is late to the party, having announced his candidacy in mid-February, giving him less than nine months until November&#8217;s election. However, with a deep network of connections thanks to being a San Francisco native, and with his company, Thayer Ventures, being an investment firm focused on travel and transportation technology, he does not seem concerned about any fundraising deficits.

“I’m extremely confident that we will be competitive and outraise every other mayoral candidate in this race,” Farrell said.

“I’m extremely confident that we will be competitive and outraise every other mayoral candidate in this race,” Farrell said.

Currently, Levi Strauss heir <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/05/money-san-francisco-mayor-election-london-breed-daniel-lurie/">Daniel Lurie has a massive fundraising advantage</a> when taking into account an independent committee supporting his bid. The group “Believe in SF, Lurie for Mayor 2024” raised almost $3.3 million last year—with almost <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/30/daniel-lurie-mom-spends-million-dollars-san-francisco-mayor-race/">a third of that amount coming from Lurie’s mother</a>—and the group just dropped nearly $216,000 on mailers at the beginning of this month.

Currently, Levi Strauss heir <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/05/money-san-francisco-mayor-election-london-breed-daniel-lurie/">Daniel Lurie has a massive fundraising advantage</a> when taking into account an independent committee supporting his bid. The group “Believe in SF, Lurie for Mayor 2024” raised almost $3.3 million last year—with almost <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/30/daniel-lurie-mom-spends-million-dollars-san-francisco-mayor-race/">a third of that amount coming from Lurie’s mother</a>—and the group just dropped nearly $216,000 on mailers at the beginning of this month.

Mayoral Candidate Daniel Lurie, right, speaks with Magan Li, center, and her son Lucas at their business, Lion Trading, while campaigning Chinatown in San Francisco on Friday, Jan. 26, 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/2024/01/featured_20240109guesswhoscomingtomayorsrace_3b686d.jpg?w=2500" alt="A vibrant shop with people, Chinese decorations, and altar. Two individuals engage in a handshake." class="wp-image-243833"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A well-funded committee backing Daniel Lurie has spent six figures on mailers supporting the wealthy heir&#8217;s mayoral bid.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/featured_20240109guesswhoscomingtomayorsrace_3b686d.jpg?w=2500" alt="A vibrant shop with people, Chinese decorations, and altar. Two individuals engage in a handshake." class="wp-image-243833"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A well-funded committee backing Daniel Lurie has spent six figures on mailers supporting the wealthy heir's mayoral bid.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/featured_20240109guesswhoscomingtomayorsrace_3b686d.jpg?w=2500" alt="A vibrant shop with people, Chinese decorations, and altar. Two individuals engage in a handshake." class="wp-image-243833"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">A well-funded committee backing Daniel Lurie has spent six figures on mailers supporting the wealthy heir&#8217;s mayoral bid.</figcaption></figure>

Political insiders have wondered if Farrell will struggle to raise money because of an overlapping base of supporters with Lurie in affluent neighborhoods like Pacific Heights and the Marina, but Farrell said he believes his body of work will make the choice easy for supporters. Lurie’s career has mostly been spent coordinating and fundraising for his anti-poverty nonprofit, Tipping Point, and he has never held elected office.

Political insiders have wondered if Farrell will struggle to raise money because of an overlapping base of supporters with Lurie in affluent neighborhoods like Pacific Heights and the Marina, but Farrell said he believes his body of work will make the choice easy for supporters. Lurie’s career has mostly been spent coordinating and fundraising for his anti-poverty nonprofit, Tipping Point, and he has never held elected office.

“Daniel&#8217;s a nice guy, but we couldn&#8217;t be more different,” Farrell said. “I&#8217;ve spent over 20 years in the private sector—business, finance, practicing law—and spent seven and a half years inside City Hall with a track record of effective leadership. I was the longest-serving budget chair in our city’s history [and] became mayor in 2018.”&nbsp;

“Daniel's a nice guy, but we couldn't be more different,” Farrell said. “I've spent over 20 years in the private sector—business, finance, practicing law—and spent seven and a half years inside City Hall with a track record of effective leadership. I was the longest-serving budget chair in our city’s history [and] became mayor in 2018.”&nbsp;

“Daniel&#8217;s a nice guy, but we couldn&#8217;t be more different,” Farrell said. “I&#8217;ve spent over 20 years in the private sector—business, finance, practicing law—and spent seven and a half years inside City Hall with a track record of effective leadership. I was the longest-serving budget chair in our city’s history [and] became mayor in 2018.”&nbsp;

He added, “We need a new mayor that will come in and hit the ground running on day one.”

He added, “We need a new mayor that will come in and hit the ground running on day one.”

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