Gabe Greschler

This summer has been a political whirlwind. But if there’s one certainty we can offer you, it’s that the San Francisco mayor’s race in November will be steeped in seriously big bucks.

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This summer has been a political whirlwind. But if there’s one certainty we can offer you, it’s that the San Francisco mayor’s race in November will be steeped in seriously big bucks.

On Thursday, campaigns reported their latest fundraising figures in a contest pitting incumbent Mayor London Breed against four challengers.

On Thursday, campaigns reported their latest fundraising figures in a contest pitting incumbent Mayor London Breed against four challengers.

The five major candidates — Breed, Mark Farrell, Daniel Lurie, Aaron Peskin and Ahsha Safaí — have collectively raised over $3 million. And that’s not counting independent committees, public financing and cash that candidates contribute from their own bank accounts, which will add millions more.&nbsp;

The five major candidates — Breed, Mark Farrell, Daniel Lurie, Aaron Peskin and Ahsha Safaí — have collectively raised over $3 million. And that’s not counting independent committees, public financing and cash that candidates contribute from their own bank accounts, which will add millions more.&nbsp;

Here are three key takeaways from the latest campaign finance disclosure documents, which show figures through June 30.&nbsp;

Here are three key takeaways from the latest campaign finance disclosure documents, which show figures through June 30.&nbsp;

How much has each SF mayoral candidate raised?

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Farrell and Lurie are raising tons of money

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-farrell-and-lurie-are-raising-tons-of-money">Farrell and Lurie are raising tons of money</h2>

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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-farrell-and-lurie-are-raising-tons-of-money">Farrell and Lurie are raising tons of money</h2>

Both former Supervisor Farrell and nonprofit leader Lurie are raking in serious dough — and each have reasons to be happy with their results.&nbsp;

Both former Supervisor Farrell and nonprofit leader Lurie are raking in serious dough — and each have reasons to be happy with their results.&nbsp;

Farrell started his campaign in February, a bit later than his moderate challengers. Since then, he has raised $654,082 from 1,879 contributors. For candidate-controlled campaigns, the contribution limit is $500 a person.

Farrell started his campaign in February, a bit later than his moderate challengers. Since then, he has raised $654,082 from 1,879 contributors. For candidate-controlled campaigns, the contribution limit is $500 a person.

According to Farrell’s campaign, the average donation is $314, and over 74% comes from donors within the city. He has also received $179,000 in public financing. Farrell is angling for the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/18/san-francisco-mayor-firefighters-endorsement/">firefighter union’s endorsement</a>, which could pack an extra $1 million in support.&nbsp;

Mayoral candidates court the hottest endorsement in town: firefighters

According to Farrell’s campaign, the average donation is $314, and over 74% comes from donors within the city. He has also received $179,000 in public financing. Farrell is angling for the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/18/san-francisco-mayor-firefighters-endorsement/">firefighter union’s endorsement</a>, which could pack an extra $1 million in support.&nbsp;

Farrell has also set up an independent committee supporting a ballot measure that promises to reform local government. That entity, which has raised $985,140 from the likes of real estate power couple Linda and Thomas Coates, can be used to boost Farrell’s name recognition, as long as it doesn’t explicitly mention his mayoral campaign.&nbsp;

Farrell has also set up an independent committee supporting a ballot measure that promises to reform local government. That entity, which has raised $985,140 from the likes of real estate power couple Linda and Thomas Coates, can be used to boost Farrell’s name recognition, as long as it doesn’t explicitly mention his mayoral campaign.&nbsp;

Lurie has also had fundraising success — impressive as he was relatively unknown as a political figure before launching his campaign in the fall. However, some of his haul came from his own pocket.

Lurie has also had fundraising success — impressive as he was relatively unknown as a political figure before launching his campaign in the fall. However, some of his haul came from his own pocket.

Lurie has raised $823,000 from 2,641 donors, more than 66% of them in San Francisco, and has spent $590,000 himself. He is not taking public financing dollars.&nbsp;

Lurie has raised $823,000 from 2,641 donors, more than 66% of them in San Francisco, and has spent $590,000 himself. He is not taking public financing dollars.&nbsp;

Apart from the campaign committee, Lurie is backed by an independent expenditure committee that has raised $1.9 million this year — much of it from <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/01/daniel-lurie-campaign-finance-believe-in-sf/">ultra-wealthy donors</a>, such as WhatsApp founder Jan Koum, philanthropist Gordon Getty and Lurie’s mother, Miriam “Mimi” Haas.&nbsp;

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

Apart from the campaign committee, Lurie is backed by an independent expenditure committee that has raised $1.9 million this year — much of it from <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/08/01/daniel-lurie-campaign-finance-believe-in-sf/">ultra-wealthy donors</a>, such as WhatsApp founder Jan Koum, philanthropist Gordon Getty and Lurie’s mother, Miriam “Mimi” Haas.&nbsp;

On Thursday, Farrell and Lurie sparred on X over who is the better fundraiser.

On Thursday, Farrell and Lurie sparred on X over who is the better fundraiser.

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<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
https://twitter.com/DanielLurie/status/1819043584567607599
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">🤔 <a href="https://t.co/8fJ58XOMzm">https://t.co/8fJ58XOMzm</a> <a href="https://t.co/mUfa3sUywo">pic.twitter.com/mUfa3sUywo</a>&mdash; Daniel Lurie 丹尼爾·羅偉 (@DanielLurie) <a href="https://twitter.com/DanielLurie/status/1819043584567607599?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 1, 2024</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Breed has raised the most — and has a key endorsement&nbsp;

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-breed-has-raised-the-most-and-has-a-key-endorsement-nbsp">Breed has raised the most — and has a key endorsement&nbsp;</h2>

The incumbent is the queen of fundraising, though she has been campaigning for much longer than her opponents.&nbsp;

The incumbent is the queen of fundraising, though she has been campaigning for much longer than her opponents.&nbsp;

Breed has raised $961,211 since announcing her bid for reelection in December 2021. She has also received $743,100 in public financing.&nbsp;

Breed has raised $961,211 since announcing her bid for reelection in December 2021. She has also received $743,100 in public financing.&nbsp;

Her campaign reported 3,049 donors, 56% of them city residents, with an average donation of $265.

Her campaign reported 3,049 donors, 56% of them city residents, with an average donation of $265.

Breed carries a considerable advantage from a key endorsement,<a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/24/san-francisco-democratic-party-london-breed-endorsement/"> secured last week</a>, from the Democratic County Central Committee. That offers her an essentially free marketing campaign by the committee in the form of fliers and other materials blasted out to the city’s more than 300,000 registered Democrats.&nbsp;

London Breed nabs SF’s most prized political endorsement

Breed carries a considerable advantage from a key endorsement,<a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/07/24/san-francisco-democratic-party-london-breed-endorsement/"> secured last week</a>, from the Democratic County Central Committee. That offers her an essentially free marketing campaign by the committee in the form of fliers and other materials blasted out to the city’s more than 300,000 registered Democrats.&nbsp;

Additionally, an independent committee supporting Breed has brought in $585,000 this year. The biggest donor to that committee is <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/24/chris-larsen-ripple-crypto-san-francisco-mayor-breed/">crypto billionaire Chris Larsen</a>, who contributed $400,000.

Crypto billionaire Chris Larsen showers cash on London Breed—and scorn on her foes

Additionally, an independent committee supporting Breed has brought in $585,000 this year. The biggest donor to that committee is <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/24/chris-larsen-ripple-crypto-san-francisco-mayor-breed/">crypto billionaire Chris Larsen</a>, who contributed $400,000.

Mayoral candidate Daniel Lurie speaks during a mayoral debate to gain the Fire Union’s endorsement at the Local 798 Union Hall in San Francisco on Thursday, July 18, 2024. The Fire Union’s endorsement is highly coveted for mayoral candidates.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/20240718-firefighterdebate_jy_013.jpg?w=2500" alt="Four individuals stand behind clear podiums in a room with a yellow &quot;Fire Fighters&quot; sign and IAFF Local 798 logos, engaged in what appears to be a formal event or debate." class="wp-image-292393"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Millions of dollars are flowing into the race. On Thursday, campaigns released their latest fundraising figures.</figcaption></figure>

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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/20240718-firefighterdebate_jy_013.jpg?w=2500" alt="Four individuals stand behind clear podiums in a room with a yellow &quot;Fire Fighters&quot; sign and IAFF Local 798 logos, engaged in what appears to be a formal event or debate." class="wp-image-292393"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Millions of dollars are flowing into the race. On Thursday, campaigns released their latest fundraising figures.</figcaption></figure>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-peskin-s-campaign-is-grassroots-nbsp">Peskin’s campaign is grassroots&nbsp;</h2>

Board President Peskin, who has taken the progressive track among the mayoral challengers, has promised to avoid big-money interests. His campaign numbers reflect that stance.

Board President Peskin, who has taken the progressive track among the mayoral challengers, has promised to avoid big-money interests. His campaign numbers reflect that stance.

Since launching his election bid in April, Peskin has raised $469,262, with 76% coming from city residents. His average donation is lower than those of Farrell, Lurie and Breed: $247. Peskin has received $300,000 in public financing and has submitted for another $637,000, according to a campaign spokesperson.

Since launching his election bid in April, Peskin has raised $469,262, with 76% coming from city residents. His average donation is lower than those of Farrell, Lurie and Breed: $247. Peskin has received $300,000 in public financing and has submitted for another $637,000, according to a campaign spokesperson.

The other quasi-progressive challenger in the race is Supervisor Safaí, who launched his campaign last year. Safaí has brought in $491,832 so far. Public financing figures and the makeup of the donations were not immediately available.&nbsp;

The other quasi-progressive challenger in the race is Supervisor Safaí, who launched his campaign last year. Safaí has brought in $491,832 so far. Public financing figures and the makeup of the donations were not immediately available.&nbsp;

San Francisco moderates stack cash from tech, real estate moguls in mayor’s race

Michael Barba

The District Attorney&#8217;s Office confirmed for the first time Friday that it is criminally investigating <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/25/san-francisco-safe-nonprofit-kyra-worthy-for-richmond/">the troubled nonprofit San Francisco SAFE</a>, which collapsed last week under questions of financial mismanagement.

Before SF SAFE hired Kyra Worthy, misspending questions dogged her East Bay nonprofit

The District Attorney's Office confirmed for the first time Friday that it is criminally investigating <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/25/san-francisco-safe-nonprofit-kyra-worthy-for-richmond/">the troubled nonprofit San Francisco SAFE</a>, which collapsed last week under questions of financial mismanagement.

The District Attorney&#8217;s Office confirmed for the first time Friday that it is criminally investigating <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/25/san-francisco-safe-nonprofit-kyra-worthy-for-richmond/">the troubled nonprofit San Francisco SAFE</a>, which collapsed last week under questions of financial mismanagement.

Matthew McCarthy, chief of the White Collar Crime Division at the office, took the unusual step of confirming the active criminal investigation in letters to both the Board of Supervisors and the Police Commission.

Matthew McCarthy, chief of the White Collar Crime Division at the office, took the unusual step of confirming the active criminal investigation in letters to both the Board of Supervisors and the Police Commission.

&#8220;We are currently conducting an investigation of potential criminal wrongdoing in connection with SF SAFE&#8217;s finances,&#8221; McCarthy wrote.

"We are currently conducting an investigation of potential criminal wrongdoing in connection with SF SAFE's finances," McCarthy wrote.

&#8220;We are currently conducting an investigation of potential criminal wrongdoing in connection with SF SAFE&#8217;s finances,&#8221; McCarthy wrote.

McCarthy wrote the letters to ask both of the bodies to delay hearings they had scheduled later this month to examine the issues at SF SAFE. He argued that the hearings could potentially compromise the ongoing criminal investigation into the nonprofit.

McCarthy wrote the letters to ask both of the bodies to delay hearings they had scheduled later this month to examine the issues at SF SAFE. He argued that the hearings could potentially compromise the ongoing criminal investigation into the nonprofit.

The news comes after SF SAFE, the longtime nonprofit partner of the San Francisco Police Department, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/24/san-francisco-nonprofit-sf-safe-kyra-worthy-fired/">fired its executive director</a>, Kyra Worthy, last Wednesday and temporarily ceased operations over possible misspending.

Troubled San Francisco nonprofit SF SAFE fires director, reports possible check forgery to police

The news comes after SF SAFE, the longtime nonprofit partner of the San Francisco Police Department, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/24/san-francisco-nonprofit-sf-safe-kyra-worthy-fired/">fired its executive director</a>, Kyra Worthy, last Wednesday and temporarily ceased operations over possible misspending.

The problems at SF SAFE first emerged when the Controller&#8217;s Office released a scathing report Jan. 18, finding that SFPD reimbursed the nonprofit for at least $79,000 in improper expenses, including <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/18/san-francisco-police-wrongly-paid-nonprofit-79k-for-lavish-expenses-report-finds/">luxury gift boxes and a Lake Tahoe trip</a>. The report also found that SFPD did not have supporting documentation from SF SAFE for $3.8 million of the $5.3 million that it reimbursed the nonprofit for expenses between July 2018 and March 2023.

Limo rides, a Tahoe trip and luxury gifts: San Francisco police wrongly paid for it all

The problems at SF SAFE first emerged when the Controller's Office released a scathing report Jan. 18, finding that SFPD reimbursed the nonprofit for at least $79,000 in improper expenses, including <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/18/san-francisco-police-wrongly-paid-nonprofit-79k-for-lavish-expenses-report-finds/">luxury gift boxes and a Lake Tahoe trip</a>. The report also found that SFPD did not have supporting documentation from SF SAFE for $3.8 million of the $5.3 million that it reimbursed the nonprofit for expenses between July 2018 and March 2023.

The problems at SF SAFE first emerged when the Controller&#8217;s Office released a scathing report Jan. 18, finding that SFPD reimbursed the nonprofit for at least $79,000 in improper expenses, including <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/18/san-francisco-police-wrongly-paid-nonprofit-79k-for-lavish-expenses-report-finds/">luxury gift boxes and a Lake Tahoe trip</a>. The report also found that SFPD did not have supporting documentation from SF SAFE for $3.8 million of the $5.3 million that it reimbursed the nonprofit for expenses between July 2018 and March 2023.

Days later, The Standard learned that crypto billionaire Chris Larsen had <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/23/san-francisco-safe-nonprofit-chris-larsen-grant-funding/">called for an investigation</a> into how as much as $1 million of the $1.8 million he gave the nonprofit to expand the use of security cameras in the city was spent.

Crypto boss who gave $1.8M to San Francisco crime nonprofit wants audit of &#8216;discrepancies&#8217;

Days later, The Standard learned that crypto billionaire Chris Larsen had <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/23/san-francisco-safe-nonprofit-chris-larsen-grant-funding/">called for an investigation</a> into how as much as $1 million of the $1.8 million he gave the nonprofit to expand the use of security cameras in the city was spent.

The nonprofit is also facing allegations that it stiffed vendors for at least $1.2 million worth of work, including for installing and maintaining security cameras, and that it left its longtime partner, the Castro Community on Patrol, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/31/san-francisco-safe-castro-community-on-patrol-missing-funds/">saddled with $11,000 in debts it could not pay</a> when SF SAFE abruptly cut ties with the group in November.

Funds for Castro patrol go missing at embattled nonprofit SF SAFE, group says

The nonprofit is also facing allegations that it stiffed vendors for at least $1.2 million worth of work, including for installing and maintaining security cameras, and that it left its longtime partner, the Castro Community on Patrol, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/31/san-francisco-safe-castro-community-on-patrol-missing-funds/">saddled with $11,000 in debts it could not pay</a> when SF SAFE abruptly cut ties with the group in November.

Worthy did not respond to a request for comment Friday.

Worthy did not respond to a request for comment Friday.

She was hired by the nonprofit&#8217;s board of directors in 2018 despite leading another nonprofit in the East Bay that faced questions about its spending.

She was hired by the nonprofit's board of directors in 2018 despite leading another nonprofit in the East Bay that faced questions about its spending.

She was hired by the nonprofit&#8217;s board of directors in 2018 despite leading another nonprofit in the East Bay that faced questions about its spending.

In 2017, the West Contra Costa Unified School District demanded that her prior nonprofit, For Richmond, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/25/san-francisco-safe-nonprofit-kyra-worthy-for-richmond/">repay nearly $235,000 in funding</a> to the district after an investigation found the nonprofit had filed false invoices and failed to complete services that it was paid for under contracts benefiting Black students.

In 2017, the West Contra Costa Unified School District demanded that her prior nonprofit, For Richmond, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/25/san-francisco-safe-nonprofit-kyra-worthy-for-richmond/">repay nearly $235,000 in funding</a> to the district after an investigation found the nonprofit had filed false invoices and failed to complete services that it was paid for under contracts benefiting Black students.

Supervisor Aaron Peskin, who called for the hearing at the Board of Supervisors, said he would consult with the City Attorney&#8217;s Office about whether to postpone the hearing, while noting that the District Attorney&#8217;s Office &#8220;is not authorized to issue legal counsel to the Board of Supervisors or anyone else.&#8221;

Supervisor Aaron Peskin, who called for the hearing at the Board of Supervisors, said he would consult with the City Attorney's Office about whether to postpone the hearing, while noting that the District Attorney's Office "is not authorized to issue legal counsel to the Board of Supervisors or anyone else."

Supervisor Aaron Peskin, who called for the hearing at the Board of Supervisors, said he would consult with the City Attorney&#8217;s Office about whether to postpone the hearing, while noting that the District Attorney&#8217;s Office &#8220;is not authorized to issue legal counsel to the Board of Supervisors or anyone else.&#8221;

&#8220;Of course public hearings (or civil cases for that matter) can proceed during a criminal investigation,&#8221; Peskin said in a text message.

"Of course public hearings (or civil cases for that matter) can proceed during a criminal investigation," Peskin said in a text message.

&#8220;Of course public hearings (or civil cases for that matter) can proceed during a criminal investigation,&#8221; Peskin said in a text message.

He also questioned whether District Attorney Brooke Jenkins would &#8220;investigate her own office&#8217;s potential involvement.&#8221;

He also questioned whether District Attorney Brooke Jenkins would "investigate her own office's potential involvement."

He also questioned whether District Attorney Brooke Jenkins would &#8220;investigate her own office&#8217;s potential involvement.&#8221;

&#8220;I think she should consider asking the State Attorney General to take this case,&#8221; Peskin said.

"I think she should consider asking the State Attorney General to take this case," Peskin said.

&#8220;I think she should consider asking the State Attorney General to take this case,&#8221; Peskin said.

Among those Peskin asked to speak about <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/18/san-francisco-police-wrongly-paid-nonprofit-79k-for-lavish-expenses-report-finds/">the Controller&#8217;s Office report</a> are the controller, SFPD and the SF SAFE board of directors. The hearing is currently set to take place on Feb. 15.

Among those Peskin asked to speak about <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/18/san-francisco-police-wrongly-paid-nonprofit-79k-for-lavish-expenses-report-finds/">the Controller's Office report</a> are the controller, SFPD and the SF SAFE board of directors. The hearing is currently set to take place on Feb. 15.

Among those Peskin asked to speak about <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/01/18/san-francisco-police-wrongly-paid-nonprofit-79k-for-lavish-expenses-report-finds/">the Controller&#8217;s Office report</a> are the controller, SFPD and the SF SAFE board of directors. The hearing is currently set to take place on Feb. 15.

Police Commission Vice President Max Carter-Oberstone, who called for the other hearing scheduled for Wednesday, said he believed his hearing should go forward, but that the decision was ultimately up to Police Commission President Cindy Elias.

Police Commission Vice President Max Carter-Oberstone, who called for the other hearing scheduled for Wednesday, said he believed his hearing should go forward, but that the decision was ultimately up to Police Commission President Cindy Elias.

&#8220;There is nothing stopping us from holding a public hearing on an issue just because that issue also happens to separately be the subject of a criminal investigation,&#8221; Carter-Oberstone said.

"There is nothing stopping us from holding a public hearing on an issue just because that issue also happens to separately be the subject of a criminal investigation," Carter-Oberstone said.

&#8220;There is nothing stopping us from holding a public hearing on an issue just because that issue also happens to separately be the subject of a criminal investigation,&#8221; Carter-Oberstone said.

Representatives for the Controller&#8217;s Office and SFPD who speak at the hearing could decline to answer questions as necessary, he said.

Representatives for the Controller's Office and SFPD who speak at the hearing could decline to answer questions as necessary, he said.

Representatives for the Controller&#8217;s Office and SFPD who speak at the hearing could decline to answer questions as necessary, he said.

Elias did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Elias did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

DA confirms criminal probe into troubled nonprofit SF SAFE

Just over a month after his <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/06/aaron-peskin-mayoral-campaign-launch/">entrance</a> into the hotly contested mayor’s race, Board President Aaron Peskin has spun up the progressive fundraising wheels.

Aaron Peskin vows to lead San Francisco&#8217;s &#8216;recovery&#8217; in mayoral campaign kickoff

Just over a month after his <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/06/aaron-peskin-mayoral-campaign-launch/">entrance</a> into the hotly contested mayor’s race, Board President Aaron Peskin has spun up the progressive fundraising wheels.

Will it be enough to compete in a field of moderates backed by big tech and philanthropic moguls?&nbsp;

Will it be enough to compete in a field of moderates backed by big tech and philanthropic moguls?&nbsp;

Since announcing his campaign in April, Peskin has pulled in about $150,000 in donations, according to figures shared by the campaign with The Standard on Monday.

Since announcing his campaign in April, Peskin has pulled in about $150,000 in donations, according to figures shared by the campaign with The Standard on Monday.

Peskin&#8217;s spokesperson Kaitlyn Conway said the money comes from roughly 550 contributors, averaging between $200 and $250. The donation cap is set at $500 for candidate campaigns.

Peskin's spokesperson Kaitlyn Conway said the money comes from roughly 550 contributors, averaging between $200 and $250. The donation cap is set at $500 for candidate campaigns.

Peskin&#8217;s spokesperson Kaitlyn Conway said the money comes from roughly 550 contributors, averaging between $200 and $250. The donation cap is set at $500 for candidate campaigns.

Conway did not share the percentage of donations from San Francisco residents. However, she said the campaign intends to receive public financing, which is partially determined by local contributions. Public financing would allow Peskin to get over $1 million in extra cash. Qualifying mayoral candidates can receive an initial $300,000 in public financing before matching funds kick in based on donations.

Conway did not share the percentage of donations from San Francisco residents. However, she said the campaign intends to receive public financing, which is partially determined by local contributions. Public financing would allow Peskin to get over $1 million in extra cash. Qualifying mayoral candidates can receive an initial $300,000 in public financing before matching funds kick in based on donations.

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-13.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man makes an announcement behind a podium." class="wp-image-265546"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Board President Aaron Peskin speaks during his campaign kickoff last month.</figcaption></figure>

Peskin’s campaign will also likely be buoyed by an independent committee, which isn’t hampered by donation caps, a model that has already pushed big pools of cash toward Peskin’s opponents.&nbsp;

Peskin’s campaign will also likely be buoyed by an independent committee, which isn’t hampered by donation caps, a model that has already pushed big pools of cash toward Peskin’s opponents.&nbsp;

Conway described the fundraising strategy as a grassroots effort targeting smaller donors.&nbsp;

Conway described the fundraising strategy as a grassroots effort targeting smaller donors.&nbsp;

“We are just trying to reach out to everyday San Franciscans to make sure their voices are getting heard,” she said. “Whether it is $25 or $50, every dollar helps at this point.”&nbsp;

“We are just trying to reach out to everyday San Franciscans to make sure their voices are getting heard,” she said. “Whether it is $25 or $50, every dollar helps at this point.”&nbsp;

The campaign’s fundraising strategy is in many ways reflective of Peskin’s rhetorical arguments for why he should win in a field of moderates at a time when voters are frustrated with the direction of the city.&nbsp;

The campaign’s fundraising strategy is in many ways reflective of Peskin’s rhetorical arguments for why he should win in a field of moderates at a time when voters are frustrated with the direction of the city.&nbsp;

Since entering the race, Peskin has cast himself as rejecting the influence of big-money donors, whether it be crypto billionaire <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/24/chris-larsen-ripple-crypto-san-francisco-mayor-breed/">Chris Larsen’s</a> support for Mayor London Breed or nonprofit leader and Levi’s heir Daniel Lurie’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/04/san-francisco-mayor-election-daniel-lurie-wealth/">wealthy background</a>. Critics, however, have painted Peskin as having crafted policy that has made it more difficult to make progress on issues like housing, thus benefiting the city’s landowners.

Daniel Lurie may be the richest person to ever run for mayor of SF. What does he own?

Since entering the race, Peskin has cast himself as rejecting the influence of big-money donors, whether it be crypto billionaire <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/24/chris-larsen-ripple-crypto-san-francisco-mayor-breed/">Chris Larsen’s</a> support for Mayor London Breed or nonprofit leader and Levi’s heir Daniel Lurie’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/04/04/san-francisco-mayor-election-daniel-lurie-wealth/">wealthy background</a>. Critics, however, have painted Peskin as having crafted policy that has made it more difficult to make progress on issues like housing, thus benefiting the city’s landowners.

Former interim mayor Mark Farrell, center, and philanthropist Daniel Lurie, up from the right, attend the rally.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/img_1705.jpg?w=2500" alt="A group of people holding protest signs, one reads &quot;SAFETY IS A HUMAN RIGHT&quot;." class="wp-image-261771"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Former Supervisor Mark Farrell, center, and nonprofit leader Daniel Lurie, up from the right, have both raised considerable sums in their campaigns for mayor.</figcaption></figure>

Although Peskin’s figures are comparatively smaller than some of his moderate rivals, political experts said it is in line with what they expect from his supporters, who they described as part of a more working- to middle-class coalition of San Franciscans.

Although Peskin’s figures are comparatively smaller than some of his moderate rivals, political experts said it is in line with what they expect from his supporters, who they described as part of a more working- to middle-class coalition of San Franciscans.

Since jumping into the race last year, Lurie saw a quick injection of about $230,000 in under two weeks, according to announcements at the time from his campaign. Sixty-one percent of the 635 donations were from San Francisco residents, the campaign said.

Since jumping into the race last year, Lurie saw a quick injection of about $230,000 in under two weeks, according to announcements at the time from his campaign. Sixty-one percent of the 635 donations were from San Francisco residents, the campaign said.

Former Supervisor Mark Farrell, who has carved out a lane as a pro-business, tough-on-crime candidate, was able to haul in <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/13/san-francisco-mayor-election-mark-farrell-fundraising/">over $350,000</a> within a month of his candidacy being announced in February. The money came from about 1,000 donors, 70% of whom were San Franciscans.&nbsp;

Over $350K flows to Mark Farrell in San Francisco mayor’s race

Former Supervisor Mark Farrell, who has carved out a lane as a pro-business, tough-on-crime candidate, was able to haul in <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2024/03/13/san-francisco-mayor-election-mark-farrell-fundraising/">over $350,000</a> within a month of his candidacy being announced in February. The money came from about 1,000 donors, 70% of whom were San Franciscans.&nbsp;

While no week-to-week or month-to-month figures were immediately available for Breed’s campaign, the sitting mayor brought in about $200,000 in the second half of 2023, according to the latest campaign filings.&nbsp;

While no week-to-week or month-to-month figures were immediately available for Breed’s campaign, the sitting mayor brought in about $200,000 in the second half of 2023, according to the latest campaign filings.&nbsp;

Breed’s official campaign kickoff will be held on May 18, and campaign spokesperson Joe Arellano said he expects the mayor’s donations to ramp up then. The mayor is already set to receive hundreds of thousands of dollars in public matching, <a href="https://sfethics.org/ethics/2024/03/campaign-finance-public-funds-november-5-2024.html">according</a> to the Ethics Commission.

Breed’s official campaign kickoff will be held on May 18, and campaign spokesperson Joe Arellano said he expects the mayor’s donations to ramp up then. The mayor is already set to receive hundreds of thousands of dollars in public matching, <a href="https://sfethics.org/ethics/2024/03/campaign-finance-public-funds-november-5-2024.html">according</a> to the Ethics Commission.

Mayor London Breed smiles while at AA Bakery & Cafe on Stockton Street in San Francisco on Tuesday, April 23, 2024.Two days after returning from China, San Francisco Mayor London Breed immediately paid a visit to Chinatown to share the good news with the Chinese American community.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/featured_20240424-breedglobalpolitics.jpg?w=1459" alt="A smiling woman in blue foreground with people in a sunny, bustling street background." class="wp-image-270339"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayor London Breed&#8217;s campaign kickoff is scheduled for May 18 and is expected to come with a bump in donations.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/featured_20240424-breedglobalpolitics.jpg?w=1459" alt="A smiling woman in blue foreground with people in a sunny, bustling street background." class="wp-image-270339"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayor London Breed's campaign kickoff is scheduled for May 18 and is expected to come with a bump in donations.</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/featured_20240424-breedglobalpolitics.jpg?w=1459" alt="A smiling woman in blue foreground with people in a sunny, bustling street background." class="wp-image-270339"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Mayor London Breed&#8217;s campaign kickoff is scheduled for May 18 and is expected to come with a bump in donations.</figcaption></figure>

Supervisor Ahsha Safaí raised about $184,000 between July and December 2023.

Supervisor Ahsha Safaí raised about $184,000 between July and December 2023.

“When you have Lurie and Farrell who are competing against each other for Mayor of the Marina, you would expect them to raise lots of money from people who have lots of money,” said longtime political consultant Jim Ross. “I think that [if] you consider Aaron and his base is much more progressive,&nbsp;… raising that much money in a month is a pretty strong showing. It shows he has a real base of support.”

“When you have Lurie and Farrell who are competing against each other for Mayor of the Marina, you would expect them to raise lots of money from people who have lots of money,” said longtime political consultant Jim Ross. “I think that [if] you consider Aaron and his base is much more progressive,&nbsp;… raising that much money in a month is a pretty strong showing. It shows he has a real base of support.”

Jason McDaniel, a political science professor from San Francisco State University, agreed.

Jason McDaniel, a political science professor from San Francisco State University, agreed.

“While resources are important, when you add <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=public+financing+sf&amp;oq=public+financing+sf&amp;gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTIGCAEQRRhAMgYIAhBFGD3SAQg2MDIyajBqNKgCALACAQ&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8">public matching</a> into this and other ways of getting the message out, … I would not have a serious concern about him having the resources necessary to get his message out to voters,” he said. “The only thing to my mind that makes this an issue of concern is if the three other major contenders coordinate against Peskin. As of now, I think that’s not an area of concern.”

“While resources are important, when you add <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=public+financing+sf&amp;oq=public+financing+sf&amp;gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTIGCAEQRRhAMgYIAhBFGD3SAQg2MDIyajBqNKgCALACAQ&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8">public matching</a> into this and other ways of getting the message out, … I would not have a serious concern about him having the resources necessary to get his message out to voters,” he said. “The only thing to my mind that makes this an issue of concern is if the three other major contenders coordinate against Peskin. As of now, I think that’s not an area of concern.”

We got our hands on Aaron Peskin’s campaign haul. (It’s small)

Josh Koehn

San Francisco spared no expense on <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/15/joe-biden-san-francisco-tech-elites-apec-summit/">President Joe Biden’s party at the Exploratorium</a> during November’s Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, spending almost $8 million to wine-and-dine a who’s-who of Democratic Party and foreign leaders before a Gwen Stefani concert and massive fireworks show.

Joe Biden parties with Gavin Newsom, Steve Kerr and Gwen Stefani in San Francisco

San Francisco spared no expense on <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/15/joe-biden-san-francisco-tech-elites-apec-summit/">President Joe Biden’s party at the Exploratorium</a> during November’s Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, spending almost $8 million to wine-and-dine a who’s-who of Democratic Party and foreign leaders before a Gwen Stefani concert and massive fireworks show.

Stefani, a pop superstar whose top hits include “Hollaback Girl” and “The Sweet Escape,” commanded a $1.1 million fee to perform a small set of songs for the Nov. 15 event, according to a rough breakdown of costs the city provided to The Standard. The tab for food and drinks ran to $300,000, while the pyrotechnics and fireworks show cost $167,000.&nbsp;

Stefani, a pop superstar whose top hits include “Hollaback Girl” and “The Sweet Escape,” commanded a $1.1 million fee to perform a small set of songs for the Nov. 15 event, according to a rough breakdown of costs the city provided to The Standard. The tab for food and drinks ran to $300,000, while the pyrotechnics and fireworks show cost $167,000.&nbsp;

All of these bills were paid by a special nonprofit created for APEC, which raised more than $20 million from private donors that included Graton Casino and Resort, Ripple, Salesforce, Apple and others.

All of these bills were paid by a special nonprofit created for APEC, which raised more than $20 million from private donors that included Graton Casino and Resort, Ripple, Salesforce, Apple and others.

Maryam Muduroglu, the city’s chief of protocol, said in a statement that the president’s party and other events during APEC were designed to “help San Francisco shine on a global stage.”

Maryam Muduroglu, the city’s chief of protocol, said in a statement that the president’s party and other events during APEC were designed to “help San Francisco shine on a global stage.”

“As host city of this historic international event, the State Department and the White House tasked us with specific requests to make sure we welcome these dignitaries and their delegations in the most hospitable and memorable way, specifically with the Welcome Reception,” Muduroglu said.

“As host city of this historic international event, the State Department and the White House tasked us with specific requests to make sure we welcome these dignitaries and their delegations in the most hospitable and memorable way, specifically with the Welcome Reception,” Muduroglu said.

READ MORE: <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/13/san-francisco-apec-summit-spent-millions-host-world-leaders/">San Francisco Spent More Than $11M on Staff Overtime, Nearly $8M for Parties During APEC&nbsp;</a>

San Francisco spent more than $11M on staff overtime, $7M for parties during APEC

READ MORE: <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/13/san-francisco-apec-summit-spent-millions-host-world-leaders/">San Francisco Spent More Than $11M on Staff Overtime, Nearly $8M for Parties During APEC&nbsp;</a>

Other expenses for the president’s $8 million party included:

Other expenses for the president’s $8 million party included:

<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>$2.6 million on production (staging, equipment, talent support, operations, security)</li>



<li>$1.7 million on union/vendor Labor</li>



<li>$1 million on the “leaders entrance/decor”</li>



<li>$420,000 to rent out the Exploratorium children’s museum venue,</li>



<li>$415,000 on video and digital app production</li>



<li>$235,000 for the dance group Bandaloop</li>
</ul>

$2.6 million on production (staging, equipment, talent support, operations, security)

core/list-item

<li>$2.6 million on production (staging, equipment, talent support, operations, security)</li>

<li>$1.7 million on union/vendor Labor</li>

$1 million on the “leaders entrance/decor”

<li>$1 million on the “leaders entrance/decor”</li>

core/list

<ul><li>$2.6 million on production (staging, equipment, talent support, operations, security)</li><li>$1.7 million on union/vendor Labor</li><li>$1 million on the “leaders entrance/decor”</li><li>$420,000 to rent out the Exploratorium children’s museum venue,</li><li>$415,000 on video and digital app production</li><li>$235,000 for the dance group Bandaloop</li></ul>

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We got our hands on Aaron Peskin’s campaign haul. (It’s small)

San Francisco spent $1.1M on Gwen Stefani for Biden’s $8 million APEC bash

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