Kevin Truong

On a slightly overcast Valentine’s Day with sweeping views of the Bay Bridge, San Francisco business and civic leaders at the Chamber of Commerce CityBeat Breakfast painted the picture of a downtrodden city finally turning the page into an era of grand recovery.&nbsp;

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On a slightly overcast Valentine’s Day with sweeping views of the Bay Bridge, San Francisco business and civic leaders at the Chamber of Commerce CityBeat Breakfast painted the picture of a downtrodden city finally turning the page into an era of grand recovery.&nbsp;

It was a bit of an ironic message, particularly considering some of the survey data presented at the event itself.&nbsp;

It was a bit of an ironic message, particularly considering some of the survey data presented at the event itself.&nbsp;

A Chamber of Commerce survey found that 72% of voters believe that the city is on the wrong track, compared with only 22% who said the opposite. The number was slightly improved from the 77% figure in the Chamber’s survey back in May, but still a far cry from the 46% who believed the arrow was pointed downward in 2019.

A Chamber of Commerce survey found that 72% of voters believe that the city is on the wrong track, compared with only 22% who said the opposite. The number was slightly improved from the 77% figure in the Chamber’s survey back in May, but still a far cry from the 46% who believed the arrow was pointed downward in 2019.

The mixed mood and messaging were hard to ignore, even from the stage.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The mixed mood and messaging were hard to ignore, even from the stage.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I know this sounds a little bit strange, but I want to start off by saying how proud I am of all San Franciscans,” Chamber of Commerce CEO Rodney Fong said, to slightly stuttering applause from attendees nibbling on a light breakfast of leafy greens and an appropriate treat: chocolate-dipped strawberries.

“I know this sounds a little bit strange, but I want to start off by saying how proud I am of all San Franciscans,” Chamber of Commerce CEO Rodney Fong said, to slightly stuttering applause from attendees nibbling on a light breakfast of leafy greens and an appropriate treat: chocolate-dipped strawberries.

Signs of the vibe shift, according to Fong, were voters’ desire to take action on the city’s problems at the ballot box. Alongside the breakfast, the Chamber <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/14/san-francisco-election-poll-prop-e-police-march-ballot/">released polling showing a majority of voters</a> supported ballot measures in the March 5 election that would increase police powers to use surveillance technology and conduct pursuits (Prop. E), predicate cash welfare on drug addiction screening (Prop. F) and provide tax breaks for office-to-residential conversions (Prop. C).&nbsp;

San Francisco voters want more police powers, new poll shows

Signs of the vibe shift, according to Fong, were voters’ desire to take action on the city’s problems at the ballot box. Alongside the breakfast, the Chamber <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/14/san-francisco-election-poll-prop-e-police-march-ballot/">released polling showing a majority of voters</a> supported ballot measures in the March 5 election that would increase police powers to use surveillance technology and conduct pursuits (Prop. E), predicate cash welfare on drug addiction screening (Prop. F) and provide tax breaks for office-to-residential conversions (Prop. C).&nbsp;

Fong noted that the theme of the last CityBeat breakfast in 2020 before the pandemic was “Wake Up San Francisco,” an allusion to the problems already starting to fester in the boom times.

Fong noted that the theme of the last CityBeat breakfast in 2020 before the pandemic was “Wake Up San Francisco,” an allusion to the problems already starting to fester in the boom times.

It took a few years, Fong said in his remarks, but he feels that the city is finally heeding that call.&nbsp;

It took a few years, Fong said in his remarks, but he feels that the city is finally heeding that call.&nbsp;

“I&#8217;m confident that 2024 will be a year that lays the foundation for a stronger, more inclusive and even more innovative San Francisco,” Fong said.&nbsp;

“I'm confident that 2024 will be a year that lays the foundation for a stronger, more inclusive and even more innovative San Francisco,” Fong said.&nbsp;

“I&#8217;m confident that 2024 will be a year that lays the foundation for a stronger, more inclusive and even more innovative San Francisco,” Fong said.&nbsp;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-we-still-have-work-to-do">&#8216;We still have work to do&#8217;</h2>

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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-we-still-have-work-to-do">'We still have work to do'</h2>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-we-still-have-work-to-do">&#8216;We still have work to do&#8217;</h2>

In her keynote remarks, Mayor London Breed’s overarching message was that to turn a corner, San Francisco needs to embrace being “aggressive” and “uncomfortable” in its approach to long-standing issues, such as homelessness and drug crimes.&nbsp;

In her keynote remarks, Mayor London Breed’s overarching message was that to turn a corner, San Francisco needs to embrace being “aggressive” and “uncomfortable” in its approach to long-standing issues, such as homelessness and drug crimes.&nbsp;

She targeted “naysayers” both outside and inside the city who seemed to gloat over its misfortune.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

She targeted “naysayers” both outside and inside the city who seemed to gloat over its misfortune.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“There were those who said that the economic fallout from the pandemic might be a good thing. Can you imagine that?” Breed said.&nbsp;

“There were those who said that the economic fallout from the pandemic might be a good thing. Can you imagine that?” Breed said.&nbsp;

Breed, who’s facing a tough reelection fight in November, defended her record on public safety, saying her policies led to the second-lowest crime rate over the past 10 years in 2023.&nbsp;

Breed, who’s facing a tough reelection fight in November, defended her record on public safety, saying her policies led to the second-lowest crime rate over the past 10 years in 2023.&nbsp;

“People need help in San Francisco, and if you aren&#8217;t willing to get a little aggressive, then you&#8217;re willing to let the stuff that&#8217;s continuing to happen on our streets continue,” she said, touting her work with state and federal officials to tamp down drug dealing.&nbsp;

“People need help in San Francisco, and if you aren't willing to get a little aggressive, then you're willing to let the stuff that's continuing to happen on our streets continue,” she said, touting her work with state and federal officials to tamp down drug dealing.&nbsp;

“People need help in San Francisco, and if you aren&#8217;t willing to get a little aggressive, then you&#8217;re willing to let the stuff that&#8217;s continuing to happen on our streets continue,” she said, touting her work with state and federal officials to tamp down drug dealing.&nbsp;

“Change makes people uncomfortable, but I&#8217;m not worried about that because you know who we need to make uncomfortable? The drug dealer selling deadly fentanyl on the streets of our city,” she said.

“Change makes people uncomfortable, but I'm not worried about that because you know who we need to make uncomfortable? The drug dealer selling deadly fentanyl on the streets of our city,” she said.

“Change makes people uncomfortable, but I&#8217;m not worried about that because you know who we need to make uncomfortable? The drug dealer selling deadly fentanyl on the streets of our city,” she said.

And, although outside media has long been an adversary, Breed approvingly quoted recent Bloomberg, New York Times and <a href="https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2024/02/12/san-franciscos-surprising-comeback">Economist headlines</a> about the city’s rebound.&nbsp;

And, although outside media has long been an adversary, Breed approvingly quoted recent Bloomberg, New York Times and <a href="https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2024/02/12/san-franciscos-surprising-comeback">Economist headlines</a> about the city’s rebound.&nbsp;

“Surprising, comeback? Maybe for some, but not for those of us who&#8217;ve been here doing the work, for those who believe, for those who have always been here,” Breed said.

“Surprising, comeback? Maybe for some, but not for those of us who've been here doing the work, for those who believe, for those who have always been here,” Breed said.

“Surprising, comeback? Maybe for some, but not for those of us who&#8217;ve been here doing the work, for those who believe, for those who have always been here,” Breed said.

The dissonance between rah-rah cheerleading and larger public opinion grew obvious when around five minutes after Breed’s remarks, event organizers showed data about the 72% of San Francisco voters who said the city is on the wrong track. The proportion of San Franciscans who think that economic conditions are better today than a year ago went from 12% in 2023 to 20% in 2024.

The dissonance between rah-rah cheerleading and larger public opinion grew obvious when around five minutes after Breed’s remarks, event organizers showed data about the 72% of San Francisco voters who said the city is on the wrong track. The proportion of San Franciscans who think that economic conditions are better today than a year ago went from 12% in 2023 to 20% in 2024.

But around 50% felt things were worse, and voters who believe that economic conditions will be worse a year from now outnumbered those who thought things would be better.

But around 50% felt things were worse, and voters who believe that economic conditions will be worse a year from now outnumbered those who thought things would be better.

A voter guide released by the Chamber found the business interest group aligned with nearly all of the mayor’s priorities. One glaring exception was the “no position” taken by the Chamber on Prop. F’s rules around addiction screening for city welfare recipients.&nbsp;

A voter guide released by the Chamber found the business interest group aligned with nearly all of the mayor’s priorities. One glaring exception was the “no position” taken by the Chamber on Prop. F’s rules around addiction screening for city welfare recipients.&nbsp;

Carlos Solórzano-Cuadra, CEO of the city&#8217;s Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, said in an interview that while he appreciates the mayor&#8217;s optimistic messaging, he isn&#8217;t writing off all of the worries about public safety and the economy. He added that he would like the business community to shift some of its focus away from downtown and to neighborhoods like the Mission.

Carlos Solórzano-Cuadra, CEO of the city's Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, said in an interview that while he appreciates the mayor's optimistic messaging, he isn't writing off all of the worries about public safety and the economy. He added that he would like the business community to shift some of its focus away from downtown and to neighborhoods like the Mission.

Carlos Solórzano-Cuadra, CEO of the city&#8217;s Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, said in an interview that while he appreciates the mayor&#8217;s optimistic messaging, he isn&#8217;t writing off all of the worries about public safety and the economy. He added that he would like the business community to shift some of its focus away from downtown and to neighborhoods like the Mission.

&#8220;We still have work to do,&#8221; said Solórzano-Cuadra. &#8220;There are things that need to be done better.&#8221;&nbsp;

"We still have work to do," said Solórzano-Cuadra. "There are things that need to be done better."&nbsp;

&#8220;We still have work to do,&#8221; said Solórzano-Cuadra. &#8220;There are things that need to be done better.&#8221;&nbsp;

Hanging over the breakfast were two fiercely contested elections likely among the most consequential in San Francisco’s recent history. In the audience were at least two other candidates vying for her job: Mark Farrell and Daniel Lurie.

Hanging over the breakfast were two fiercely contested elections likely among the most consequential in San Francisco’s recent history. In the audience were at least two other candidates vying for her job: Mark Farrell and Daniel Lurie.

At his campaign kickoff event on Tuesday, Farrell—Breed’s predecessor—painted a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/13/mark-farrell-san-francisco-mayor-police-homeless/">darker picture of the city’s condition</a>, mirroring the Chamber’s public opinion polling. Instead of questioning the doom loop claims, he embraced them as a sign of how lost the city is.&nbsp;

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

At his campaign kickoff event on Tuesday, Farrell—Breed’s predecessor—painted a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/13/mark-farrell-san-francisco-mayor-police-homeless/">darker picture of the city’s condition</a>, mirroring the Chamber’s public opinion polling. Instead of questioning the doom loop claims, he embraced them as a sign of how lost the city is.&nbsp;

“We have a doom loop, and we are losing our mantle as a world-class city,” Farrell said. “We are literally now being compared to Detroit and Oakland. That is not the conversation where San Francisco belongs.”

“We have a doom loop, and we are losing our mantle as a world-class city,” Farrell said. “We are literally now being compared to Detroit and Oakland. That is not the conversation where San Francisco belongs.”

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

Josh Koehn

<a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/06/20/london-breed-mayor-san-francisco-drugs-homelessness-crime-economy-election/">Mayor London Breed</a>’s road to reelection is getting as crowded as a WrestleMania ring, and there will likely be no shortage of skullduggery and political body slams between now and November 2024.

London Breed saved herself. Can she save San Francisco?

<a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/06/20/london-breed-mayor-san-francisco-drugs-homelessness-crime-economy-election/">Mayor London Breed</a>’s road to reelection is getting as crowded as a WrestleMania ring, and there will likely be no shortage of skullduggery and political body slams between now and November 2024.

Supervisor <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/07/26/ahsha-safai-raises-149k-in-sf-mayor-race/">Ahsha Safaí</a> announced his candidacy in the spring and immediately started taking digs at Breed as a weak leader. Anti-poverty nonprofit founder <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/26/qa-daniel-lurie-cites-crisis-of-leadership-in-run-for-san-francisco-mayor/">Daniel Lurie launched his campaign last week</a> and a day later was attacking <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/29/mayor-london-breeds-plan-to-require-drug-treatment-on-san-franciscos-poorest-has-a-potential-poison-pill/">the mayor’s plan to force drug-addicted welfare recipients into treatment</a>. As the moderate candidates duke it out, the door is open for a progressive to carve out a lane and take advantage of <a href="https://sfelections.sfgov.org/sites/default/files/Documents/VoterEducation/RCV%20Postcard%20EN.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the city’s ranked-choice voting system</a>.

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

Why is Daniel Lurie running for San Francisco mayor? He says city has leadership ‘crisis’

Lack of treatment services could tank San Francisco mayor&#8217;s drug test plan

Supervisor <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/07/26/ahsha-safai-raises-149k-in-sf-mayor-race/">Ahsha Safaí</a> announced his candidacy in the spring and immediately started taking digs at Breed as a weak leader. Anti-poverty nonprofit founder <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/26/qa-daniel-lurie-cites-crisis-of-leadership-in-run-for-san-francisco-mayor/">Daniel Lurie launched his campaign last week</a> and a day later was attacking <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/29/mayor-london-breeds-plan-to-require-drug-treatment-on-san-franciscos-poorest-has-a-potential-poison-pill/">the mayor’s plan to force drug-addicted welfare recipients into treatment</a>. As the moderate candidates duke it out, the door is open for a progressive to carve out a lane and take advantage of <a href="https://sfelections.sfgov.org/sites/default/files/Documents/VoterEducation/RCV%20Postcard%20EN.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the city’s ranked-choice voting system</a>.

But so far, no one has emerged to … wait … no, it can’t be … bah gawd, is that Supervisor Aaron Peskin’s theme music?!

But so far, no one has emerged to … wait … no, it can’t be … bah gawd, is that Supervisor Aaron Peskin’s theme music?!

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In an interview last week, Peskin told The Standard that supporters have been telling him to join the fray.

In an interview last week, Peskin told The Standard that supporters have been telling him to join the fray.

“I’d be lying to you if I did not say that people encourage me to run for mayor,” Peskin said. “But, thus far, I have not succumbed to their entreaties.”

“I’d be lying to you if I did not say that people encourage me to run for mayor,” Peskin said. “But, thus far, I have not succumbed to their entreaties.”

Over the last two decades, no elected official in San Francisco has been in office longer than Peskin, a supervisor for North Beach and surrounding neighborhoods who is now in his fourth term in office after an original stint from 2001 to 2009.&nbsp;

Over the last two decades, no elected official in San Francisco has been in office longer than Peskin, a supervisor for North Beach and surrounding neighborhoods who is now in his fourth term in office after an original stint from 2001 to 2009.&nbsp;

Nicknamed “The Bearded One” for his signature look—as well as “The Napoleon of North Beach” for his at-times caustic approach to governing—Peskin has climbed the ladder of power multiple times. In 2021, he made an embarrassing admission of drinking on the job and inappropriately berating city staff, and he took a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2021/06/10/aaron-peskin-to-enter-alcohol-treatment/">brief leave of absence to enter treatment</a>. It didn’t take long for Peskin to ascend again this past year, when his peers elected him <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/01/09/in-shock-vote-peskin-elected-board-president-after-17-ballots/">president of the Board of Supervisors</a>.&nbsp;

Supervisor Aaron Peskin to enter alcohol treatment

In shock vote, Peskin elected board president after 17 ballots

Nicknamed “The Bearded One” for his signature look—as well as “The Napoleon of North Beach” for his at-times caustic approach to governing—Peskin has climbed the ladder of power multiple times. In 2021, he made an embarrassing admission of drinking on the job and inappropriately berating city staff, and he took a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2021/06/10/aaron-peskin-to-enter-alcohol-treatment/">brief leave of absence to enter treatment</a>. It didn’t take long for Peskin to ascend again this past year, when his peers elected him <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/01/09/in-shock-vote-peskin-elected-board-president-after-17-ballots/">president of the Board of Supervisors</a>.&nbsp;

President Aaron Peskin during the Board of Supervisors meeting within the Board of Supervisors Chambers at City Hall in San Francisco, Calif. on Feb. 28, 2023.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/FEATURED_BankoBrownAnalyzer051523-scaled.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man sits pensively behind a desk in a wood-paneled room with an American flag, surrounded by other focused individuals at desks with computers." class="wp-image-160647"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Board President Aaron Peskin leads the Board of Supervisors meeting at San Francisco City Hall on Feb. 28, 2023.</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/FEATURED_BankoBrownAnalyzer051523-scaled.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man sits pensively behind a desk in a wood-paneled room with an American flag, surrounded by other focused individuals at desks with computers." class="wp-image-160647"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Board President Aaron Peskin leads the Board of Supervisors meeting at San Francisco City Hall on Feb. 28, 2023.</figcaption></figure>

Eric Jaye, a longtime political consultant in San Francisco, described Peskin as a savvy operator who knows the city and how departments work. Given that <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/05/23/heres-how-san-francisco-officials-are-doing-on-their-plan-to-save-downtown/">three-quarters of residents think San Francisco is headed down the wrong track</a>, he added, such experience could be attractive to some voters.

Poll: 76% of San Francisco voters say city is on the wrong track

Eric Jaye, a longtime political consultant in San Francisco, described Peskin as a savvy operator who knows the city and how departments work. Given that <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/05/23/heres-how-san-francisco-officials-are-doing-on-their-plan-to-save-downtown/">three-quarters of residents think San Francisco is headed down the wrong track</a>, he added, such experience could be attractive to some voters.

“Peskin’s viability comes down to what voters are looking for on Election Day,” Jaye said. “Peskin is a master mechanic. If voters want someone who can make the city run, Peskin will be formidable. If they are looking for political star power, he will have a tougher time.”

“Peskin’s viability comes down to what voters are looking for on Election Day,” Jaye said. “Peskin is a master mechanic. If voters want someone who can make the city run, Peskin will be formidable. If they are looking for political star power, he will have a tougher time.”

But he’s also made his share of enemies, and there’s always been a question of whether Peskin could win an election outside of District 3, which includes Chinatown and the Financial District. Peskin’s focus on neighborhood and preservation concerns has drawn the ire of YIMBYs and developers. And some of his political ploys have backfired, such as a public forum on the drug crisis that turned into a spectacle at United Nations Plaza.

But he’s also made his share of enemies, and there’s always been a question of whether Peskin could win an election outside of District 3, which includes Chinatown and the Financial District. Peskin’s focus on neighborhood and preservation concerns has drawn the ire of YIMBYs and developers. And some of his political ploys have backfired, such as a public forum on the drug crisis that turned into a spectacle at United Nations Plaza.

Conor Johnston, an advisor to Breed’s campaign, dismissed a potential Peskin candidacy, saying he has spent the better part of the last quarter-century creating the very problems Breed is trying to fix as mayor.

Conor Johnston, an advisor to Breed’s campaign, dismissed a potential Peskin candidacy, saying he has spent the better part of the last quarter-century creating the very problems Breed is trying to fix as mayor.

“It’d be like hiring an arsonist to be your fire chief,” Johnston said.

“It’d be like hiring an arsonist to be your fire chief,” Johnston said.

Polling has shown that the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/05/11/san-francisco-standard-voter-poll-june-2022/">Board of Supervisors has even lower approval ratings than the mayor</a>.

Key findings from the first San Francisco Standard voter poll

Polling has shown that the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/05/11/san-francisco-standard-voter-poll-june-2022/">Board of Supervisors has even lower approval ratings than the mayor</a>.

“I think right now, Breed versus Peskin, Breed would win,” said Jason McDaniel, an associate professor of political science at San Francisco State University. “There’s not a majority of voters right now that I think support Peskin over Breed. And yet, I think you have a situation where someone like Peskin could win because of ranked-choice voting transfers.”

“I think right now, Breed versus Peskin, Breed would win,” said Jason McDaniel, an associate professor of political science at San Francisco State University. “There’s not a majority of voters right now that I think support Peskin over Breed. And yet, I think you have a situation where someone like Peskin could win because of ranked-choice voting transfers.”

Peskin said he has no current plans to run. But San Francisco’s ranked-choice voting system means a candidate can win without receiving a majority of first-choice votes. Safaí is attempting to court labor union support, but that doesn’t necessarily mean he’ll become the city’s premier progressive candidate. The ranked-choice voting system could open the door for Peskin or another progressive candidate to lock up a chunk of first-place votes while picking up second- and third-place votes from losing moderate candidates.

Peskin said he has no current plans to run. But San Francisco’s ranked-choice voting system means a candidate can win without receiving a majority of first-choice votes. Safaí is attempting to court labor union support, but that doesn’t necessarily mean he’ll become the city’s premier progressive candidate. The ranked-choice voting system could open the door for Peskin or another progressive candidate to lock up a chunk of first-place votes while picking up second- and third-place votes from losing moderate candidates.

City Assessor Joaquín Torres, left, Supervisor Aaron Peskin, center, and Mayor London Breed, right are seen at a press conference in Portsmouth Square in Chinatown, San Francisco on Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023. Officials announced that more than 100 families have been able to move out of single room occupancy (SRO) housing.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/SRO-CityFederal-092823_JY_013.jpg?w=2500" alt="A diverse group of people in professional attire, focusing on something out of frame." class="wp-image-207015"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Supervisor Aaron Peskin, center, and Mayor London Breed appear at a press conference in Portsmouth Square in Chinatown on Sept. 28, 2023.</figcaption></figure>

Former Mayor Willie Brown pointed to the way ranked-choice voting played out in the <a href="https://www.sfgate.com/politics/article/don-perata-concedes-oakland-mayor-s-race-to-quan-3246220.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2010 mayor’s race in Oakland</a>, where Jean Quan defeated moderate former state Senate Pro Tem Don Perata despite trailing heavily after the first ballot count.

Former Mayor Willie Brown pointed to the way ranked-choice voting played out in the <a href="https://www.sfgate.com/politics/article/don-perata-concedes-oakland-mayor-s-race-to-quan-3246220.php" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2010 mayor’s race in Oakland</a>, where Jean Quan defeated moderate former state Senate Pro Tem Don Perata despite trailing heavily after the first ballot count.

Brown, who has coffee with Peskin on a weekly basis, said it wouldn’t surprise him if Peskin or someone else defeats Breed, who he said is being unfairly blamed for issues because she is the incumbent.&nbsp;

Brown, who has coffee with Peskin on a weekly basis, said it wouldn’t surprise him if Peskin or someone else defeats Breed, who he said is being unfairly blamed for issues because she is the incumbent.&nbsp;

“I think in ranked-choice voting, everyone has a viable chance of winning,” Brown said.

“I think in ranked-choice voting, everyone has a viable chance of winning,” Brown said.

However, Brown said the supervisor would likely hold off on announcing so different factions in the progressive camp can independently coalesce around Peskin rather than him needing to court each different entity.

However, Brown said the supervisor would likely hold off on announcing so different factions in the progressive camp can independently coalesce around Peskin rather than him needing to court each different entity.

Peskin said he and his political consultant, Jim Stearns, have not discussed him running for mayor, but whoever wins the 2024 race will need to be somebody who brings San Francisco together in a time when progressive and moderate Democrats are extremely polarized.

Peskin said he and his political consultant, Jim Stearns, have not discussed him running for mayor, but whoever wins the 2024 race will need to be somebody who brings San Francisco together in a time when progressive and moderate Democrats are extremely polarized.

“I believe in my heart—and I mean this sincerely—that what San Francisco needs right now is a big dose of unity,” Peskin said. “And we should not go down the road of Trumpian division. We’re better than that.”

“I believe in my heart—and I mean this sincerely—that what San Francisco needs right now is a big dose of unity,” Peskin said. “And we should not go down the road of Trumpian division. We’re better than that.”

San Francisco Supervisor Aaron Peskin says people want him to run for mayor

Han Li

Joel Umanzor

San Francisco’s mayoral race officially entered a new era Saturday as longtime progressive leader Aaron Peskin joined the contest for the city’s top job.

San Francisco’s mayoral race officially entered a new era Saturday as longtime progressive leader Aaron Peskin joined the contest for the city’s top job.

Peskin, 59, president of the Board of Supervisors, formally kicked off his campaign at a rally in Chinatown’s Portsmouth Square, where throngs of his supporters—and a few dozen detractors—gathered.

Peskin, 59, president of the Board of Supervisors, formally kicked off his campaign at a rally in Chinatown’s Portsmouth Square, where throngs of his supporters—and a few dozen detractors—gathered.

&#8220;I am so deeply and sincerely grateful to have received the support I needed to recover and become sober,&#8221; Peskin, who previously <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2021/06/10/aaron-peskin-to-enter-alcohol-treatment/">sought treatment</a> for alcoholism, said to a crowd of hundreds of supporters, &#8220;and it has inspired me to dedicate the next chapter of my life to the recovery of this city.

"I am so deeply and sincerely grateful to have received the support I needed to recover and become sober," Peskin, who previously <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2021/06/10/aaron-peskin-to-enter-alcohol-treatment/">sought treatment</a> for alcoholism, said to a crowd of hundreds of supporters, "and it has inspired me to dedicate the next chapter of my life to the recovery of this city.

&#8220;I am so deeply and sincerely grateful to have received the support I needed to recover and become sober,&#8221; Peskin, who previously <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2021/06/10/aaron-peskin-to-enter-alcohol-treatment/">sought treatment</a> for alcoholism, said to a crowd of hundreds of supporters, &#8220;and it has inspired me to dedicate the next chapter of my life to the recovery of this city.

&#8220;I believe San Francisco deserves a mature discussion, not a shouting match,&#8221; he added.

"I believe San Francisco deserves a mature discussion, not a shouting match," he added.

&#8220;I believe San Francisco deserves a mature discussion, not a shouting match,&#8221; he added.

Aaron Peskin, the President of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors representing District 3, is speaks during a rally announcing his run for mayor of San Francisco on Saturday, April 6, 2024.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/peskin-12.jpg?w=2500" alt="A crowd at a political rally with &quot;AARON&quot; signs, listening to a speaker at a podium." class="wp-image-265545"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Peskin speaks to the crowd at his mayoral campaign launch on Saturday.</figcaption></figure>

Prominent progressive leaders, including former mayor Art Agnos and former state legislators Mark Leno and Tom Ammiano, were among those who showed up to support Peskin, who is currently in his fourth—and final—term as supervisor. Also in attendance were local Chinatown leaders and hundreds of Chinese seniors led by Community Tenants Association.

Prominent progressive leaders, including former mayor Art Agnos and former state legislators Mark Leno and Tom Ammiano, were among those who showed up to support Peskin, who is currently in his fourth—and final—term as supervisor. Also in attendance were local Chinatown leaders and hundreds of Chinese seniors led by Community Tenants Association.

Other former and current city leaders who attended the rally told The Standard they were supporting Peskin because he knows City Hall best.

Other former and current city leaders who attended the rally told The Standard they were supporting Peskin because he knows City Hall best.

“He understands how everything works in the city,” former Board President and Supervisor Norman Yee said. “He could use the knowledge to put things together in a sensible way.”

“He understands how everything works in the city,” former Board President and Supervisor Norman Yee said. “He could use the knowledge to put things together in a sensible way.”

Supervisor Hillary Ronen said she has sometimes disagreed and fought with Peskin, but she’s excited to support his candidacy.

Supervisor Hillary Ronen said she has sometimes disagreed and fought with Peskin, but she’s excited to support his candidacy.

“It’s undeniable that he’s incredibly smart and competent,” Ronen said. “He truly loves the city. He’s an independent person [who] isn’t controlled by any billionaires.”

“It’s undeniable that he’s incredibly smart and competent,” Ronen said. “He truly loves the city. He’s an independent person [who] isn’t controlled by any billionaires.”

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/peskin-14.jpg?w=2500" alt="A crowd gathers in a city square, with a speaker addressing them, city buildings in the background." class="wp-image-265547"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Hundreds of supporters listen to Peskin speak during his campaign launch rally.</figcaption></figure>

Just outside of the park, a few dozen protesters organized a counter-rally to express their disdain for the board president. Demonstrators slapped fly swatters on signs saying &#8220;Anybody but Aaron&#8221; and &#8220;Pesky Peskin,&#8221; while blowing whistles and chanting, &#8220;Hey Hey, Ho Ho, Pesky Peskin has got to go.”

Just outside of the park, a few dozen protesters organized a counter-rally to express their disdain for the board president. Demonstrators slapped fly swatters on signs saying "Anybody but Aaron" and "Pesky Peskin," while blowing whistles and chanting, "Hey Hey, Ho Ho, Pesky Peskin has got to go.”

Just outside of the park, a few dozen protesters organized a counter-rally to express their disdain for the board president. Demonstrators slapped fly swatters on signs saying &#8220;Anybody but Aaron&#8221; and &#8220;Pesky Peskin,&#8221; while blowing whistles and chanting, &#8220;Hey Hey, Ho Ho, Pesky Peskin has got to go.”

William Brega, an Asian American community activist who has lived in San Francisco for the past two years, said he believes a Peskin victory in November would be the opposite of progress.

William Brega, an Asian American community activist who has lived in San Francisco for the past two years, said he believes a Peskin victory in November would be the opposite of progress.

“He hasn’t done anything to promote public safety,” Brega told The Standard. “I believe right now we need change from what we have had from City Hall. The change slate for the DCCC represents the majority. We need a candidate who shares the values of the current DCCC. Not any particular one—but anyone but Aaron.”

“He hasn’t done anything to promote public safety,” Brega told The Standard. “I believe right now we need change from what we have had from City Hall. The change slate for the DCCC represents the majority. We need a candidate who shares the values of the current DCCC. Not any particular one—but anyone but Aaron.”

Jade Tu leads chants during a protest at the edge of Portsmouth square which coincided with a rally announcing Aaron Peskin’s run for mayor of San Francisco on Saturday, April 6, 2024.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/peskin-6.jpg?w=2500" alt="Protesters with signs that equate a person named Aaron Peskin with negativity and rebuke." class="wp-image-265539"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Jade Tu, campaign manager for former mayor and now candidate Mark Farrell, leads chants during an anti-Peskin protest at the edge of Portsmouth Square on Saturday.</figcaption></figure>

Shortly after 10:30 a.m., before Peskin&#8217;s rally officially started, a few protesters got into a verbal altercation with his supporters, with the warring sides both yelling, &#8220;Shame on you.&#8221; Speaking into a megaphone, community activist Forrest Liu told the supervisor&#8217;s supporters, &#8220;If you are here and you are not white, Aaron Peskin wants you to bow to him.&#8221;

Shortly after 10:30 a.m., before Peskin's rally officially started, a few protesters got into a verbal altercation with his supporters, with the warring sides both yelling, "Shame on you." Speaking into a megaphone, community activist Forrest Liu told the supervisor's supporters, "If you are here and you are not white, Aaron Peskin wants you to bow to him."

Shortly after 10:30 a.m., before Peskin&#8217;s rally officially started, a few protesters got into a verbal altercation with his supporters, with the warring sides both yelling, &#8220;Shame on you.&#8221; Speaking into a megaphone, community activist Forrest Liu told the supervisor&#8217;s supporters, &#8220;If you are here and you are not white, Aaron Peskin wants you to bow to him.&#8221;

&#8220;If you are here and you are not white, bow down to your master, Aaron Peskin,&#8221; added Liu, who was wearing a black &#8220;Recall Chesa Boudin&#8221; hoodie.

"If you are here and you are not white, bow down to your master, Aaron Peskin," added Liu, who was wearing a black "Recall Chesa Boudin" hoodie.

&#8220;If you are here and you are not white, bow down to your master, Aaron Peskin,&#8221; added Liu, who was wearing a black &#8220;Recall Chesa Boudin&#8221; hoodie.

San Francisco police officers and sheriff&#8217;s deputies separated the two groups.

San Francisco police officers and sheriff's deputies separated the two groups.

San Francisco police officers and sheriff&#8217;s deputies separated the two groups.

core/video

<figure class="wp-block-video"><video controls poster="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/20240325_sausalitoanchor-outseviction-00_02_24_16-still025.jpg" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/20240406_antipeskinrally.mp4"></video><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Protesters gather outside Peskin's mayoral campaign launch rally.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-video"><video controls poster="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/20240325_sausalitoanchor-outseviction-00_02_24_16-still025.jpg" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/20240406_antipeskinrally.mp4"></video><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Protesters gather outside Peskin&#8217;s mayoral campaign launch rally.</figcaption></figure>

With Election Day now seven months away, Peskin, one of the city’s most experienced politicians, could very well be the last high-profile candidate to enter the race for mayor. Also running are incumbent Mayor London Breed, former Mayor and Supervisor Mark Farrell, philanthropist and Levi’s heir Daniel Lurie, and Supervisor Ahsha Safaí.

With Election Day now seven months away, Peskin, one of the city’s most experienced politicians, could very well be the last high-profile candidate to enter the race for mayor. Also running are incumbent Mayor London Breed, former Mayor and Supervisor Mark Farrell, philanthropist and Levi’s heir Daniel Lurie, and Supervisor Ahsha Safaí.

Peskin’s long-rumored candidacy was an open secret in the city’s political circles until last week, when he <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/03/san-francisco-aaron-peskin-mayor-chinatown/">started calling and inviting people</a> to Saturday’s rally.

Aaron Peskin to announce run for San Francisco mayor in Chinatown, sources say

Peskin’s long-rumored candidacy was an open secret in the city’s political circles until last week, when he <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/03/san-francisco-aaron-peskin-mayor-chinatown/">started calling and inviting people</a> to Saturday’s rally.

Peskin is very popular and has high name recognition in Chinatown, a neighborhood he has represented as a supervisor on and off over the past two decades—making it an obvious choice for his campaign launch. His support for renter protections and low-income families’ rights has made him an ally to many in the community.

Peskin is very popular and has high name recognition in Chinatown, a neighborhood he has represented as a supervisor on and off over the past two decades—making it an obvious choice for his campaign launch. His support for renter protections and low-income families’ rights has made him an ally to many in the community.

Rally attendees huddle and hide from the sun during a rally for Aaron Peskin, the President of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors representing District 3, as he announces his run for mayor of San Francisco on Saturday, April 6, 2024.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/peskin-1.jpg?w=2500" alt="People at a rally hold signs supporting &quot;Aaron&quot; for mayor, with buildings in the background." class="wp-image-265534"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Peskin is popular and has high name recognition in Chinatown, which he currently represents on the Board of Supervisors.</figcaption></figure>

During his speech on Saturday, Peskin said, if elected, he would support more police and community policing, clean up corruption at City Hall, strengthen local rent control and open 2,000 new shelter beds.

During his speech on Saturday, Peskin said, if elected, he would support more police and community policing, clean up corruption at City Hall, strengthen local rent control and open 2,000 new shelter beds.

&#8220;I will be a hands-on mayor, using the 25 years of governmental know-how, to once again make San Francisco the city that knows how,&#8221; he said.

"I will be a hands-on mayor, using the 25 years of governmental know-how, to once again make San Francisco the city that knows how," he said.

&#8220;I will be a hands-on mayor, using the 25 years of governmental know-how, to once again make San Francisco the city that knows how,&#8221; he said.

Peskin has never won a citywide race before. Traditionally, voters on the city’s westside, including many Chinese Americans, lean more moderate, but Jim Stearns, a campaign consultant for Peskin, said his strong name recognition in Chinese community will help him get some support from that part of the city.

Peskin has never won a citywide race before. Traditionally, voters on the city’s westside, including many Chinese Americans, lean more moderate, but Jim Stearns, a campaign consultant for Peskin, said his strong name recognition in Chinese community will help him get some support from that part of the city.

“Chinese votes will be a key for him to win this election,” Stearns said.

“Chinese votes will be a key for him to win this election,” Stearns said.

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While he has wielded substantial influence at City Hall, Peskin has also regularly sparred with colleagues and city staff and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/26/san-franciso-mayor-breed-peskin-housing-density/">enraged YIMBYs and pro-development groups</a> in the city by blocking new housing projects. Following complaints about his behavior, Peskin acknowledged in 2021 that he had a drinking problem and went to rehab.

While he has wielded substantial influence at City Hall, Peskin has also regularly sparred with colleagues and city staff and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/26/san-franciso-mayor-breed-peskin-housing-density/">enraged YIMBYs and pro-development groups</a> in the city by blocking new housing projects. Following complaints about his behavior, Peskin acknowledged in 2021 that he had a drinking problem and went to rehab.

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