Josh Koehn

Supervisor <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/26/san-francisco-progressive-supervisor-aaron-peskin-not-running-mayor/">Aaron Peskin</a> has yet to formally announce he’s running for mayor of San Francisco, but he’s been on a fact-finding mission in neighborhoods across the city to gauge support.

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

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Supervisor <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/26/san-francisco-progressive-supervisor-aaron-peskin-not-running-mayor/">Aaron Peskin</a> has yet to formally announce he’s running for mayor of San Francisco, but he’s been on a fact-finding mission in neighborhoods across the city to gauge support.

Peskin, who would become the most progressive candidate in the race, has never sought citywide office, which is why he said he specifically ventured out to the Sunset and Crocker-Amazon neighborhoods.

Peskin, who would become the most progressive candidate in the race, has never sought citywide office, which is why he said he specifically ventured out to the Sunset and Crocker-Amazon neighborhoods.

“It is no secret that I’ve been checking people&#8217;s level of interest, and I’ve been warming up to the idea,” Peskin told The Standard in a call Friday. “None of that is a secret or new news.”&nbsp;

“It is no secret that I’ve been checking people's level of interest, and I’ve been warming up to the idea,” Peskin told The Standard in a call Friday. “None of that is a secret or new news.”&nbsp;

“It is no secret that I’ve been checking people&#8217;s level of interest, and I’ve been warming up to the idea,” Peskin told The Standard in a call Friday. “None of that is a secret or new news.”&nbsp;

Peskin—whose district includes North Beach, Chinatown, Nob Hill and the Financial District—dodged and weaved when The Standard repeatedly asked if he was indeed telling people he’s definitely running. Peskin has been telling associates he will challenge Mayor <a href="https://sfstandard.com/tag/london-breed/">London Breed</a> in November’s election, according to The Standard&#8217;s own sources and the <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/article/breed-2024-election-mayor-peskin-progressive-18696873.php">San Francisco Chronicle</a>.

Peskin—whose district includes North Beach, Chinatown, Nob Hill and the Financial District—dodged and weaved when The Standard repeatedly asked if he was indeed telling people he’s definitely running. Peskin has been telling associates he will challenge Mayor <a href="https://sfstandard.com/tag/london-breed/">London Breed</a> in November’s election, according to The Standard's own sources and the <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/article/breed-2024-election-mayor-peskin-progressive-18696873.php">San Francisco Chronicle</a>.

Peskin—whose district includes North Beach, Chinatown, Nob Hill and the Financial District—dodged and weaved when The Standard repeatedly asked if he was indeed telling people he’s definitely running. Peskin has been telling associates he will challenge Mayor <a href="https://sfstandard.com/tag/london-breed/">London Breed</a> in November’s election, according to The Standard&#8217;s own sources and the <a href="https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/article/breed-2024-election-mayor-peskin-progressive-18696873.php">San Francisco Chronicle</a>.

“I’m not trying to play hard to get,” Peskin said. “I’m still grappling with it.”

“I’m not trying to play hard to get,” Peskin said. “I’m still grappling with it.”

Jim Stearns, a political consultant in the city who ran all five of Peskin’s supervisor campaigns, said he was “all in” for a Peskin run for mayor.&nbsp;

Jim Stearns, a political consultant in the city who ran all five of Peskin’s supervisor campaigns, said he was “all in” for a Peskin run for mayor.&nbsp;

“But as of right now, I have not gotten the green light,” he said.

“But as of right now, I have not gotten the green light,” he said.

Peskin’s prospective entry into the race already has many seeing red, as his involvement in politics for decades has earned him his fair share of enemies. He has drawn the ire of everyone from city staff and developers to elected colleagues and YIMBYs. 

Peskin’s prospective entry into the race already has many seeing red, as his involvement in politics for decades has earned him his fair share of enemies. He has drawn the ire of everyone from city staff and developers to elected colleagues and YIMBYs.

However, Stearns suggested Peskin has a strong chance of winning because of his “deep roots in the progressive community” and neighborhood connections (perhaps most notably with <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/29/chinese-american-voter-san-francisco-mayoral-race/">Asian American voters</a> in Chinatown). He noted that Breed is vulnerable due to her low polling numbers and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/14/san-francisco-mayor-london-breed-chamber-commerce/">residents’ dissatisfaction</a> with the state of San Francisco.

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However, Stearns suggested Peskin has a strong chance of winning because of his “deep roots in the progressive community” and neighborhood connections (perhaps most notably with <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/29/chinese-american-voter-san-francisco-mayoral-race/">Asian American voters</a> in Chinatown). He noted that Breed is vulnerable due to her low polling numbers and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/14/san-francisco-mayor-london-breed-chamber-commerce/">residents’ dissatisfaction</a> with the state of San Francisco.

District 3 Supervisor Aaron Peskin is seen at a press conference where Mayor London Breed speaks in Portsmouth Square in Chinatown, San Francisco on Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023. Peskin, Breed, and other 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/2023/09/SRO-CityFederal-092823_JY_001.jpg?w=2500" alt="Aaron Peskin listens intently in a crowd while Mayor London Breed speaks." class="wp-image-206546"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Aaron Peskin has until June 11 to decide if he will challenge Mayor London Breed in November&#8217;s election, but a decision will likely be made much sooner.</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/SRO-CityFederal-092823_JY_001.jpg?w=2500" alt="Aaron Peskin listens intently in a crowd while Mayor London Breed speaks." class="wp-image-206546"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Aaron Peskin has until June 11 to decide if he will challenge Mayor London Breed in November's election, but a decision will likely be made much sooner.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/SRO-CityFederal-092823_JY_001.jpg?w=2500" alt="Aaron Peskin listens intently in a crowd while Mayor London Breed speaks." class="wp-image-206546"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Aaron Peskin has until June 11 to decide if he will challenge Mayor London Breed in November&#8217;s election, but a decision will likely be made much sooner.</figcaption></figure>

“I really feel like the work of government hasn’t been getting done the last five years, because it’s been at this [heightened] political level,” Stearns said.&nbsp;

“I really feel like the work of government hasn’t been getting done the last five years, because it’s been at this [heightened] political level,” Stearns said.&nbsp;

The mayor is already facing challenges from other moderate Democrats in former Mayor <a href="https://sfstandard.com/tag/mark-farrell/">Mark Farrell</a> and well-funded nonprofit founder <a href="https://sfstandard.com/tag/daniel-lurie/">Daniel Lurie</a>. Supervisor <a href="https://sfstandard.com/tag/ahsha-safai/">Ahsha Safaí</a>, who has been tacking left of the field, is also running.

The mayor is already facing challenges from other moderate Democrats in former Mayor <a href="https://sfstandard.com/tag/mark-farrell/">Mark Farrell</a> and well-funded nonprofit founder <a href="https://sfstandard.com/tag/daniel-lurie/">Daniel Lurie</a>. Supervisor <a href="https://sfstandard.com/tag/ahsha-safai/">Ahsha Safaí</a>, who has been tacking left of the field, is also running.

David Latterman, a longtime political analyst in San Francisco, suggested that the ranked-choice voting system could also open the door to Peskin. Breed is likely to be fiercely defensive of her record, and moderates may be more focused on attacking her and one another.

David Latterman, a longtime political analyst in San Francisco, suggested that the ranked-choice voting system could also open the door to Peskin. Breed is likely to be fiercely defensive of her record, and moderates may be more focused on attacking her and one another.

“They’re playing with fire,” Latterman said. “What they all need to do is pound on Peskin.”

“They’re playing with fire,” Latterman said. “What they all need to do is pound on Peskin.”

Jason McDaniel, a political science professor at San Francisco State University, suggested that Peskin would be able to rally progressives who are pushing back against wealthy tech executives and others supporting a more moderate agenda.

Jason McDaniel, a political science professor at San Francisco State University, suggested that Peskin would be able to rally progressives who are pushing back against wealthy tech executives and others supporting a more moderate agenda.

“I expect the progressive movement leaders and organizations to unite behind his candidacy to send that signal to voters that he is the strong progressive candidate facing off against the moderate establishment,” McDaniel said.

“I expect the progressive movement leaders and organizations to unite behind his candidacy to send that signal to voters that he is the strong progressive candidate facing off against the moderate establishment,” McDaniel said.

He added that voters may not align with Peskin’s policy positions, but many people could rank him second on their ballot—allowing him to pick up key votes if their preferred candidate loses—because they see Peskin as a “familiar and experienced” face who has frequently opposed Breed.

He added that voters may not align with Peskin’s policy positions, but many people could rank him second on their ballot—allowing him to pick up key votes if their preferred candidate loses—because they see Peskin as a “familiar and experienced” face who has frequently opposed Breed.

President Aaron Peskin during the Board of Supervisors meeting at City Hall in San Francisco on Feb. 28, 2023. | Michaela Vatcheva for The Standard

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/1022723BOSRoundup-62.jpg?w=1790" alt="Aaron Peskin sits contemplatively in the San Francisco Board of Supervisors chambers with a hand on his chin. A woman, also absorbed, is partially visible in the foreground." class="wp-image-132339"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Aaron Peskin, president of the Board of Supervisors, has made his fair share of political enemies over the last two decades. | Michaela Vatcheva for The Standard</figcaption></figure>

Peskin has always been quick on the draw with a pithy quote, but he also has a sharp tongue. He’s frequently lashed out at staff and political opponents in closed-door meetings. During the pandemic, he acknowledged that he has a drinking problem and later said he went to rehab.

Peskin has always been quick on the draw with a pithy quote, but he also has a sharp tongue. He’s frequently lashed out at staff and political opponents in closed-door meetings. During the pandemic, he acknowledged that he has a drinking problem and later said he went to rehab.

“I would say, just knowing him for a long time, his recovery and sobriety has changed his outlook,” Stearns said. “This is a city of second chances. I think Aaron has changed dramatically in the last few years.”

“I would say, just knowing him for a long time, his recovery and sobriety has changed his outlook,” Stearns said. “This is a city of second chances. I think Aaron has changed dramatically in the last few years.”

Regardless, a public record spanning more than two decades will certainly be a gold mine for opposition researchers. Peskin, 59, was born and raised in Berkeley and graduated from UC Santa Cruz. In addition to serving as a supervisor, he and his wife run a nonprofit called the Great Basin Land and Water, which represents and negotiates with Native American tribes on water rights and land acquisitions in California, Nevada and Utah.

Regardless, a public record spanning more than two decades will certainly be a gold mine for opposition researchers. Peskin, 59, was born and raised in Berkeley and graduated from UC Santa Cruz. In addition to serving as a supervisor, he and his wife run a nonprofit called the Great Basin Land and Water, which represents and negotiates with Native American tribes on water rights and land acquisitions in California, Nevada and Utah.

During his time on the board, Peskin has frequently <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/28/despite-housing-crisis-san-francisco-made-it-harder-to-build-homes-in-some-neighborhoods/">voted against new developments</a> in the name of neighborhood preservation, earning a reputation as the city’s preeminent NIMBY among housing activists.

Despite housing crisis, San Francisco just made it harder to build in some neighborhoods

During his time on the board, Peskin has frequently <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/28/despite-housing-crisis-san-francisco-made-it-harder-to-build-homes-in-some-neighborhoods/">voted against new developments</a> in the name of neighborhood preservation, earning a reputation as the city’s preeminent NIMBY among housing activists.

“His recent bevy of anti-housing legislation is a transparent attempt to cultivate the support of NIMBY voters,” said Corey Smith, executive director of the Housing Action Coalition. “At a time where we need to build as much affordable housing as possible, Peskin’s continued efforts to sabotage new housing must be rejected.”

“His recent bevy of anti-housing legislation is a transparent attempt to cultivate the support of NIMBY voters,” said Corey Smith, executive director of the Housing Action Coalition. “At a time where we need to build as much affordable housing as possible, Peskin’s continued efforts to sabotage new housing must be rejected.”

Despite his polarizing record, Latterman suggested that Peskin could snag as much as 30% of the vote just for his positions on social justice issues and institutional support from labor unions, progressives and far-left organizations. He added that other groups that might not seem politically aligned with Peskin could also be in play to support him if they think Peskin could be an ally in office.

Despite his polarizing record, Latterman suggested that Peskin could snag as much as 30% of the vote just for his positions on social justice issues and institutional support from labor unions, progressives and far-left organizations. He added that other groups that might not seem politically aligned with Peskin could also be in play to support him if they think Peskin could be an ally in office.

“Do not underestimate Aaron,” Latterman said. “Don’t underestimate his ability to cut a deal.”&nbsp;

“Do not underestimate Aaron,” Latterman said. “Don’t underestimate his ability to cut a deal.”&nbsp;

Peskin has until June 11 to announce his candidacy, and he’d likely face a fundraising deficit. His potential opponents are expected to have <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/16/san-francisco-mark-farrell-mayor-race-fundraising/">substantial war chests</a> in what is already shaping up to be the most expensive mayor’s race in city history. But Peskin believes he’s a legitimate contender to become the city’s 46th mayor.

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Peskin has until June 11 to announce his candidacy, and he’d likely face a fundraising deficit. His potential opponents are expected to have <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/02/16/san-francisco-mark-farrell-mayor-race-fundraising/">substantial war chests</a> in what is already shaping up to be the most expensive mayor’s race in city history. But Peskin believes he’s a legitimate contender to become the city’s 46th mayor.

“It’s a massive job at a tough time. But I think there are experiences I have that qualify me to do it,” Peskin said. “There’s definitely a lane.”

“It’s a massive job at a tough time. But I think there are experiences I have that qualify me to do it,” Peskin said. “There’s definitely a lane.”

Aaron Peskin sees ‘a lane’ to winning San Francisco mayor’s race

<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.

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<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>.

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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

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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>

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

Astrid Kane

The president of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors has a message for progressive supporters hoping he’ll run for mayor in November: hard pass.

The president of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors has a message for progressive supporters hoping he’ll run for mayor in November: hard pass.

“I’m not afraid of running,” said Aaron Peskin in an interview on Thursday. “I’m not afraid of losing. I’m afraid of winning.”

“I’m not afraid of running,” said Aaron Peskin in an interview on Thursday. “I’m not afraid of losing. I’m afraid of winning.”

Indeed, whoever wins the top job at City Hall next year will enter a world of hurt. The city’s budget deficit is expected to reach $489 million in 2025 and by 2027, that number could <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/17/san-francisco-budget-deficit-1-4-billion-cuts-london-breed/">climb as high as $1.4 billion</a>.

San Francisco in a &#8216;tough spot&#8217; as $1.4B budget deficit looms

Indeed, whoever wins the top job at City Hall next year will enter a world of hurt. The city’s budget deficit is expected to reach $489 million in 2025 and by 2027, that number could <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/17/san-francisco-budget-deficit-1-4-billion-cuts-london-breed/">climb as high as $1.4 billion</a>.

Peskin also rattled off some other challenges he’s not eager to meet, like dealing with the glut of vacant office space that’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/17/mayor-london-breed-pitches-tax-breaks-for-downtown-san-francisco-office-conversions/">dragging down Downtown’s economic fortunes</a> and contending with the enormous sums of money that moderate-leaning political actors have pledged to spend this cycle.

Mayor London Breed pitches tax breaks for downtown San Francisco office conversions

Peskin also rattled off some other challenges he’s not eager to meet, like dealing with the glut of vacant office space that’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/17/mayor-london-breed-pitches-tax-breaks-for-downtown-san-francisco-office-conversions/">dragging down Downtown’s economic fortunes</a> and contending with the enormous sums of money that moderate-leaning political actors have pledged to spend this cycle.

San Francisco Mayor London Breed, who is eligible for one more full term but faces weak polling numbers, is being challenged by two moderate-leaning candidates in Supervisor Asha Safaí and nonprofit executive Daniel Lurie. While several other challengers <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/15/san-francisco-who-else-election-mayor/">have also thrown their hats in the race</a>, there is at present no standard-bearer for the political left.

Get to know the longshots running for San Francisco mayor

San Francisco Mayor London Breed, who is eligible for one more full term but faces weak polling numbers, is being challenged by two moderate-leaning candidates in Supervisor Asha Safaí and nonprofit executive Daniel Lurie. While several other challengers <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/15/san-francisco-who-else-election-mayor/">have also thrown their hats in the race</a>, there is at present no standard-bearer for the political left.

In October, Peskin stated that <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/03/san-francisco-supervisor-aaron-peskin-says-people-want-him-to-run-for-mayor/">allies were urging him to run</a>. But now the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/12/02/san-francisco-aquatic-park-pier-rally-federal-funds/">longtime South End Rowing Club swimmer</a> is throwing some cold bay water on that dream.&nbsp;

City officials, swimmers to rally for funds to rebuild San Francisco pier

In October, Peskin stated that <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/03/san-francisco-supervisor-aaron-peskin-says-people-want-him-to-run-for-mayor/">allies were urging him to run</a>. But now the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/12/02/san-francisco-aquatic-park-pier-rally-federal-funds/">longtime South End Rowing Club swimmer</a> is throwing some cold bay water on that dream.&nbsp;

A longtime leader of the city’s progressive wing, Peskin is currently in his fourth term as supervisor, representing District 3, which covers the Financial District, Union Square, Chinatown, North Beach, Nob Hill and Russian Hill. Having initially held the seat from 2001 until 2009, serving as president during his entire second term, he later unseated a mayoral appointee before winning another two full terms.&nbsp;

A longtime leader of the city’s progressive wing, Peskin is currently in his fourth term as supervisor, representing District 3, which covers the Financial District, Union Square, Chinatown, North Beach, Nob Hill and Russian Hill. Having initially held the seat from 2001 until 2009, serving as president during his entire second term, he later unseated a mayoral appointee before winning another two full terms.&nbsp;

By the time he leaves office in January 2025, he will have been a supervisor for more than 17 of the prior 24 years. Reflecting on his current position, Peskin seems dismayed, comparing the current atmosphere with earlier, chummier days.&nbsp;

By the time he leaves office in January 2025, he will have been a supervisor for more than 17 of the prior 24 years. Reflecting on his current position, Peskin seems dismayed, comparing the current atmosphere with earlier, chummier days.&nbsp;

“In my first tour of duty, I forged personal relationships with my colleagues, some of which have lasted to this day,” he said. “The board of 2000, it’d be like, ‘Hey, I’ve got an idea.’ And it’d be one-for-all, all-for-one. It ain’t like that now.”

“In my first tour of duty, I forged personal relationships with my colleagues, some of which have lasted to this day,” he said. “The board of 2000, it’d be like, ‘Hey, I’ve got an idea.’ And it’d be one-for-all, all-for-one. It ain’t like that now.”

It is possible, of course, that Peskin’s latest disavowal of ambitions to higher office is a feint. In January 2023, the board’s 11 members struggled to find consensus and elect a president, going through 17 rounds of voting before Peskin <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/01/09/in-shock-vote-peskin-elected-board-president-after-17-ballots/">emerged as the surprise winner</a>.

It is possible, of course, that Peskin’s latest disavowal of ambitions to higher office is a feint. In January 2023, the board’s 11 members struggled to find consensus and elect a president, going through 17 rounds of voting before Peskin <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/01/09/in-shock-vote-peskin-elected-board-president-after-17-ballots/">emerged as the surprise winner</a>.

“This was not on my list of things to do today,” Peskin said at the time.

“This was not on my list of things to do today,” Peskin said at the time.

Any indecisive would-be candidates out there still have time to throw their hats in the ring, as San Francisco’s mayoral race will not be on the March 5 primary ballot. The deadline to declare for the race is June 11, which gives Peskin’s mayoral boosters another five and a half months to change the supervisor’s mind.

Any indecisive would-be candidates out there still have time to throw their hats in the ring, as San Francisco’s mayoral race will not be on the March 5 primary ballot. The deadline to declare for the race is June 11, which gives Peskin’s mayoral boosters another five and a half months to change the supervisor’s mind.

Michael Barba

A San Francisco official who helped prepare a loan at the center of a corruption case against a senior building inspector&nbsp;resigned Monday under pressure.

A San Francisco official who helped prepare a loan at the center of a corruption case against a senior building inspector&nbsp;resigned Monday under pressure.

Yosef Tahbazof, an attorney and real estate developer, stepped down from the Assessment Appeals Board, which resolves disputes between the assessor and taxpayers over property valuations. He quit after Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin said he would introduce legislation to remove Tahbazof following <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/08/14/san-francisco-corruption-scandal-who-is-the-immensely-wealthy-developer/">reporting by The Standard</a>.

Who is the &#8216;immensely wealthy&#8217; developer tied to San Francisco&#8217;s corruption scandal?

Yosef Tahbazof, an attorney and real estate developer, stepped down from the Assessment Appeals Board, which resolves disputes between the assessor and taxpayers over property valuations. He quit after Board of Supervisors President Aaron Peskin said he would introduce legislation to remove Tahbazof following <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/08/14/san-francisco-corruption-scandal-who-is-the-immensely-wealthy-developer/">reporting by The Standard</a>.

“The Assessment Appeals Board needs to be above and beyond reproach and relies on public trust to do its important work,” Peskin told The Standard. “And the appearance of impropriety by any of its members, particularly when related to city business, erodes public trust.”

“The Assessment Appeals Board needs to be above and beyond reproach and relies on public trust to do its important work,” Peskin told The Standard. “And the appearance of impropriety by any of its members, particularly when related to city business, erodes public trust.”

Tahbazof, 37, had served on the Assessment Appeals Board since his appointment by the Board of Supervisors in 2013. He is an attorney with the Tahbazof Law Firm and principal at the real estate development and management firm Atlas Property Group. He is also the son of prominent developer Sia Tahbazof, 72.

Tahbazof, 37, had served on the Assessment Appeals Board since his appointment by the Board of Supervisors in 2013. He is an attorney with the Tahbazof Law Firm and principal at the real estate development and management firm Atlas Property Group. He is also the son of prominent developer Sia Tahbazof, 72.

The Standard reported Monday that court records show Yosef Tahbazof helped prepare the terms of a $180,000 loan from developer Freydoon Ghassemzadeh to then-city building inspector Bernie Curran in early 2017.

The Standard reported Monday that court records show Yosef Tahbazof helped prepare the terms of a $180,000 loan from developer Freydoon Ghassemzadeh to then-city building inspector Bernie Curran in early 2017.

Curran did not disclose the loan from Ghassemzadeh until 2021, after he came under investigation by the City Attorney’s Office. Building and property records show the loan was outstanding at the time he approved a final inspection for a project owned by Ghassemzadeh.

Curran did not disclose the loan from Ghassemzadeh until 2021, after he came under investigation by the City Attorney’s Office. Building and property records show the loan was outstanding at the time he approved a final inspection for a project owned by Ghassemzadeh.

That loan is the subject of a criminal case brought by local prosecutors against Curran, who has pleaded not guilty to perjury and conflict of interest charges.

That loan is the subject of a criminal case brought by local prosecutors against Curran, who has pleaded not guilty to perjury and conflict of interest charges.

Court records from the case show Yosef Tahbazof sent an email on March 15, 2017, asking a financial services company to draft the loan agreement that was ultimately signed between Curran and Ghassemzadeh.

Court records from the case show Yosef Tahbazof sent an email on March 15, 2017, asking a financial services company to draft the loan agreement that was ultimately signed between Curran and Ghassemzadeh.

Prosecutors have not announced charges against Yosef Tahbazof or Ghassemzadeh. Ghassemzadeh previously declined to comment.

Prosecutors have not announced charges against Yosef Tahbazof or Ghassemzadeh. Ghassemzadeh previously declined to comment.

In an email to The Standard, Yosef Tahbazof said he had tendered his resignation “immediately” after learning Peskin wanted him to step down.&nbsp;

In an email to The Standard, Yosef Tahbazof said he had tendered his resignation “immediately” after learning Peskin wanted him to step down.&nbsp;

A screengrab of an article page on the now-failed First Republic Bank’s website client testimonials that include the Tahbazof family and a video of Siavesh Tahbazof complimenting the banks supportive and personal banking practices.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/INLINED03_DeveloperOne080723.jpg?w=1908" alt="" class="wp-image-190719"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Sia Tahbazof and his family are featured in a client testimonial for First Republic Bank, captured in this screenshot of the website.</figcaption></figure>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disguising-the-funds">Disguising the Funds</h2>

core/heading

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disguising-the-funds">Disguising the Funds</h2>

Curran was convicted last month in a federal case of receiving a $260,000 loan from an unnamed developer whose projects he regularly inspected. The developer agreed to forgive $30,000 of the loan.

Curran was convicted last month in a federal case of receiving a $260,000 loan from an unnamed developer whose projects he regularly inspected. The developer agreed to forgive $30,000 of the loan.

It appears from court and other public records that the developer, referred to in court documents only as Developer-1, may be Sia Tahbazof.

It appears from court and other public records that the developer, referred to in court documents only as Developer-1, may be Sia Tahbazof.

Prosecutors said Developer-1 routed the loan to Curran through several relatives in an “elaborate concealment strategy” meant to hide the source of the funds. That strategy also included Curran agreeing to “sign and record a false loan agreement and deed of trust purporting to establish the terms of a fictional loan between Curran and a relative of Developer-1.”

Prosecutors said Developer-1 routed the loan to Curran through several relatives in an “elaborate concealment strategy” meant to hide the source of the funds. That strategy also included Curran agreeing to “sign and record a false loan agreement and deed of trust purporting to establish the terms of a fictional loan between Curran and a relative of Developer-1.”

Ghassemzadeh is the brother-in-law of Sia Tahbazof and uncle of Yosef Tahbazof.

Ghassemzadeh is the brother-in-law of Sia Tahbazof and uncle of Yosef Tahbazof.

The loan that prosecutors described in court records matches the one Curran belatedly reported receiving from Ghassemzadeh by amending the financial disclosure paperwork he had on file with the city.

The loan that prosecutors described in court records matches the one Curran belatedly reported receiving from Ghassemzadeh by amending the financial disclosure paperwork he had on file with the city.

Curran admitted in his plea agreement that he “falsified the financial disclosure form to deceive investigators and conceal the fact that Developer-1 was the source of the money,” prosecutors said.

Curran admitted in his plea agreement that he “falsified the financial disclosure form to deceive investigators and conceal the fact that Developer-1 was the source of the money,” prosecutors said.

He pleaded guilty to two counts of accepting illegal gratuities.

He pleaded guilty to two counts of accepting illegal gratuities.

Prosecutors have not announced charges against Sia Tahbazof. He previously declined to comment.

Prosecutors have not announced charges against Sia Tahbazof. He previously declined to comment.

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

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San Francisco official named in corruption case steps down

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Aaron Peskin sees ‘a lane’ to winning San Francisco mayor’s race

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

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

San Francisco official named in corruption case steps down

Nonprofit head joins race to replace Aaron Peskin on the Board of Supervisors