Josh Koehn

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

London Breed saved herself. Can she save San Francisco?

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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>.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Supervisor Aaron Peskin to enter alcohol treatment

In shock vote, Peskin elected board president after 17 ballots

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Key findings from the first San Francisco Standard voter poll

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Han Li

Another high-profile candidate will join the competitive race to represent Chinatown and Downtown San Francisco on the city’s Board of Supervisors.

Another high-profile candidate will join the competitive race to represent Chinatown and Downtown San Francisco on the city’s Board of Supervisors.

Danny Sauter, 35, a nonprofit executive and neighborhood activist, is expected to announce his candidacy for supervisor and file paperwork with the Department of Elections today. He’s running in District 3, which covers the Financial District, Union Square, North Beach, Nob Hill and Russian Hill.

Danny Sauter, 35, a nonprofit executive and neighborhood activist, is expected to announce his candidacy for supervisor and file paperwork with the Department of Elections today. He’s running in District 3, which covers the Financial District, Union Square, North Beach, Nob Hill and Russian Hill.

“District 3 will play an outsized role in the success of San Francisco for the next five or 10 years,” Sauter told The Standard. “We've got such economic engines for our entire city, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/06/13/plan-to-save-downtown-san-francisco-from-doom-loop-approved-by-lawmakers/">when you look at Downtown</a> and tourist hotspots like Fisherman's Wharf and Union Square.”

Plan to save downtown San Francisco from doom loop approved by lawmakers

“District 3 will play an outsized role in the success of San Francisco for the next five or 10 years,” Sauter told The Standard. “We've got such economic engines for our entire city, <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/06/13/plan-to-save-downtown-san-francisco-from-doom-loop-approved-by-lawmakers/">when you look at Downtown</a> and tourist hotspots like Fisherman's Wharf and Union Square.”

Sauter touted his experience in establishing a successful small business, working for the nonprofit Neighborhood Centers Together as its executive director and helping organize the neighborhood’s farmers' market. He believes he has the expertise to help the city recover.

Sauter touted his experience in establishing a successful small business, working for the nonprofit Neighborhood Centers Together as its executive director and helping organize the neighborhood’s farmers' market. He believes he has the expertise to help the city recover.

“I'm really excited to do that work,” he said. “That's why I'm getting in this race.”

“I'm really excited to do that work,” he said. “That's why I'm getting in this race.”

The election will be held in November 2024.&nbsp;

The election will be held in November 2024.&nbsp;

This is not Sauter’s first run for office. In 2020, he challenged the incumbent, Supervisor Aaron Peskin as a political newcomer, receiving an impressive <a href="https://www.sfelections.org/results/20201103/data/20201201/d3/20201201_d3_short.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">43% of support in the final round</a>.

This is not Sauter’s first run for office. In 2020, he challenged the incumbent, Supervisor Aaron Peskin as a political newcomer, receiving an impressive <a href="https://www.sfelections.org/results/20201103/data/20201201/d3/20201201_d3_short.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">43% of support in the final round</a>.

District 3 Supervisor Aaron Peskin speaks at a press conference in Portsmouth Square in Chinatown, San Francisco on Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023. Peskin 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/2023/10/SRO-CityFederal-092823_JY_004.jpg?w=2500" alt="A man with gray hair and beard speaks at a podium outdoors, a crowd with masks in the background." class="wp-image-207011"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">District 3 Supervisor Aaron Peskin speaks at a press conference in Portsmouth Square in Chinatown, San Francisco on Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023. </figcaption></figure>

Other candidates include <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/15/san-francisco-supervisor-sharon-lai/">former transit commissioner Sharon Lai</a>, Deputy City Attorney Moe Jamil and Democratic County Central Committee Vice Chair Peter Gallotta. Peskin, who is terming out, said in a text that he’s co-endorsing Lai and Jamil.

San Francisco district supervisor race heating up as ex-transit official announces candidacy

Other candidates include <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/15/san-francisco-supervisor-sharon-lai/">former transit commissioner Sharon Lai</a>, Deputy City Attorney Moe Jamil and Democratic County Central Committee Vice Chair Peter Gallotta. Peskin, who is terming out, said in a text that he’s co-endorsing Lai and Jamil.

Sauter is considered a more moderate pick in San Francisco politics, while Peskin has long been a progressive voice on the board. State Sen. Scott Wiener is among Sauter's early endorsers.

Sauter is considered a more moderate pick in San Francisco politics, while Peskin has long been a progressive voice on the board. State Sen. Scott Wiener is among Sauter's early endorsers.

The 2024 race will also be the first time since 2008 that no incumbent is running to represent District 3, leaving an open seat up for grabs.

The 2024 race will also be the first time since 2008 that no incumbent is running to represent District 3, leaving an open seat up for grabs.

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

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>

<h1 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disguising-the-funds">Disguising the Funds</h1>

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<h1 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-disguising-the-funds">Disguising the Funds</h1>

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.

San Francisco official named in corruption case steps down

Mike Ege

Next year will be a critical election cycle—not only for the nation, but also for San Francisco.&nbsp;

Next year will be a critical election cycle—not only for the nation, but also for San Francisco.&nbsp;

In 2024, voters will have a chance to weigh in on some of the city’s most contentious issues, such as the role of police and strategies to combat drug misuse. San Franciscans could also elect a new mayor and tilt the balance of power at City Hall, decisions that could have long-lasting consequences for the city.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In 2024, voters will have a chance to weigh in on some of the city’s most contentious issues, such as the role of police and strategies to combat drug misuse. San Franciscans could also elect a new mayor and tilt the balance of power at City Hall, decisions that could have long-lasting consequences for the city.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Voters will be filling out ballots in both March and November. The March ballot will feature the national presidential primary, <a href="https://calmatters.org/health/mental-health/2023/09/gavin-newsom-mental-health-2024-election/">one state ballot initiative</a> and a host of <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/14/san-francisco-march-2024-election-primary-ballot/">local ballot initiatives</a>, as well as races for <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/03/san-francisco-moderate-democrats-fight-dccc-march-2024/">local political party committees</a> and San Francisco <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/09/san-francisco-lawmaker-denounces-judicial-challengers/">Superior Court judgeships</a>. In November, voters will choose a president and many <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/03/08/sf-supervisor-catherine-stefani-is-running-for-state-assembly/">state offices</a>, as well as a mayor and new members of the Board of Supervisors.&nbsp;

Here&#8217;s what San Francisco voters will consider in the March 2024 election

Fight brewing among San Francisco Democrats for control of powerful board

San Francisco judges denounce tough-on-crime challengers

SF Supervisor Catherine Stefani is running for state assembly

Voters will be filling out ballots in both March and November. The March ballot will feature the national presidential primary, <a href="https://calmatters.org/health/mental-health/2023/09/gavin-newsom-mental-health-2024-election/">one state ballot initiative</a> and a host of <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/14/san-francisco-march-2024-election-primary-ballot/">local ballot initiatives</a>, as well as races for <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/03/san-francisco-moderate-democrats-fight-dccc-march-2024/">local political party committees</a> and San Francisco <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/09/san-francisco-lawmaker-denounces-judicial-challengers/">Superior Court judgeships</a>. In November, voters will choose a president and many <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/03/08/sf-supervisor-catherine-stefani-is-running-for-state-assembly/">state offices</a>, as well as a mayor and new members of the Board of Supervisors.&nbsp;

March Ballot Measures: A Referendum on Breed?

March Ballot Measures: A Referendum on Breed?

Mayor London Breed joined elected officials, Tenderloin residents, and community partners to celebrate the reopening of the U.N (United Nations) Plaza which included a skateboard park along Market Street between 7th and 8th Streets in San Francisco on Wednesday, November 8, 2023. The changes to the 150,000-square-foot public space includes skate ramps, platforms along with outdoor chess and pingpong tables.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/unplazaopening11092023-439.jpeg?w=2500" alt="San Francisco Mayor London Breed, with a serious expression, looks towards the sky at an event at United Nations Plaza on Wednesday, November 8, 2023. Breed is the sponsor of multiple ballot measures for the March 2024 election. " class="wp-image-219504"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">San Francisco Mayor London Breed is the sponsor of multiple ballot measures for the March 2024 election.</figcaption></figure>

At least two of the seven local ballot measures in the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/14/san-francisco-march-2024-election-primary-ballot/">March election</a>, if passed, could be viewed as a mandate for Mayor London Breed’s approach to the drug crisis and public safety.&nbsp;&nbsp;

At least two of the seven local ballot measures in the <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/14/san-francisco-march-2024-election-primary-ballot/">March election</a>, if passed, could be viewed as a mandate for Mayor London Breed’s approach to the drug crisis and public safety.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Proposition E would <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/27/san-francisco-mayor-breed-march-2024-ballot-measure-explainer/">give police a freer hand</a> in using surveillance technology, pursuits of suspects and other areas. It would also compel the Police Commission to seek more public input when making new police rules. Proposition F would tie cash welfare benefits <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/17/san-francisco-mayor-london-breed-drug-test-welfare-benefits-ballot-measure/">to drug screening—and, if necessary, treatment</a>—for some recipients.&nbsp;

San Francisco mayor wants to give cops a long leash. Here’s what you’ll be voting on

San Francisco voters to decide on plan to screen welfare recipients for drugs

Proposition E would <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/27/san-francisco-mayor-breed-march-2024-ballot-measure-explainer/">give police a freer hand</a> in using surveillance technology, pursuits of suspects and other areas. It would also compel the Police Commission to seek more public input when making new police rules. Proposition F would tie cash welfare benefits <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/17/san-francisco-mayor-london-breed-drug-test-welfare-benefits-ballot-measure/">to drug screening—and, if necessary, treatment</a>—for some recipients.&nbsp;

Both measures are a reflection of Breed’s oppositional relationship with the city’s left-leaning progressives, who have nominal control over the Board of Supervisors and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/01/10/sf-police-commissioners-reappointment-solidifies-progressive-control/">the Police Commission</a>. They also give Breed, who faces a steep road to reelection in November, a chance to align herself with public opinion. A <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/18/san-francisco-drugs-welfare-poll-march-2024-election/">recent poll of 500 likely voters</a> by EMC Research showed 66% support for the drug-screening policy, which was condemned outright by supervisors when Breed <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/26/san-francisco-mayors-sober-dole-plan-splits-lawmakers/">presented the plan in September</a>.

SF police commissioner’s reappointment solidifies progressive control

Controversial plan to screen welfare recipients for drugs is backed by voters, poll says

San Francisco mayor wants to test welfare recipients for drug addiction

Both measures are a reflection of Breed’s oppositional relationship with the city’s left-leaning progressives, who have nominal control over the Board of Supervisors and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/01/10/sf-police-commissioners-reappointment-solidifies-progressive-control/">the Police Commission</a>. They also give Breed, who faces a steep road to reelection in November, a chance to align herself with public opinion. A <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/18/san-francisco-drugs-welfare-poll-march-2024-election/">recent poll of 500 likely voters</a> by EMC Research showed 66% support for the drug-screening policy, which was condemned outright by supervisors when Breed <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/26/san-francisco-mayors-sober-dole-plan-splits-lawmakers/">presented the plan in September</a>.

<a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/13/california-math-wars-san-franciscans-demand-8th-grade-algebra/">Proposition G</a> is a nonbinding statement urging the San Francisco Unified School District to return algebra classes to middle school. The measure could help bring out education-minded voters who drove the recalls of <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/03/18/how-to-fight-a-recall-ahead-of-junes-referendum-on-chesa-boudin-school-board-recall-founders-offer-advice-to-the-embattled-da/">three members of the Board of Education</a> in 2022. That could have repercussions up and down the ballot.&nbsp;

California math wars: San Franciscans demand return of 8th grade algebra

How to fight a recall: School board recall founders offer advice to embattled DA Chesa Boudin

<a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/13/california-math-wars-san-franciscans-demand-8th-grade-algebra/">Proposition G</a> is a nonbinding statement urging the San Francisco Unified School District to return algebra classes to middle school. The measure could help bring out education-minded voters who drove the recalls of <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/03/18/how-to-fight-a-recall-ahead-of-junes-referendum-on-chesa-boudin-school-board-recall-founders-offer-advice-to-the-embattled-da/">three members of the Board of Education</a> in 2022. That could have repercussions up and down the ballot.&nbsp;

A Battle for Control of the Local Democratic Party

A Battle for Control of the Local Democratic Party

Nancy Tung and entrepreneur Michael Lai, pictured in the foreground at a campaign event, are running for Democratic County Central Committee as part of the Democrats for Change slate. 

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/laitiung1.jpg?w=2500" alt="A group of moderate Democrats, holding signs, smile against a brick wall at a launch party for a moderate slate." class="wp-image-227174"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Nancy Tung and entrepreneur Michael Lai, pictured in the foreground at a campaign event, are running for Democratic County Central Committee as part of the Democrats for Change slate. </figcaption></figure>

Another body that condemned Breed’s drug screening plan was the Democratic County Central Committee, which governs the local Democratic Party.&nbsp;

Another body that condemned Breed’s drug screening plan was the Democratic County Central Committee, which governs the local Democratic Party.&nbsp;

The committee, which is currently dominated by progressive-leaning members, is no stranger to election power struggles. But in 2024, candidates from opposing slates will run <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/03/san-francisco-moderate-democrats-fight-dccc-march-2024/">high-profile outreach campaigns</a> to get otherwise disinterested Democratic voters to notice the down-ballot, inside-baseball contest. Twenty-four candidates are running on a <a href="https://www.sfdemocratsforchange.org/">moderate “reform” slate</a>; progressives have also fielded a <a href="https://www.laborandworkingfamilies.com/">slate of 24 candidates</a>.

The committee, which is currently dominated by progressive-leaning members, is no stranger to election power struggles. But in 2024, candidates from opposing slates will run <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/12/03/san-francisco-moderate-democrats-fight-dccc-march-2024/">high-profile outreach campaigns</a> to get otherwise disinterested Democratic voters to notice the down-ballot, inside-baseball contest. Twenty-four candidates are running on a <a href="https://www.sfdemocratsforchange.org/">moderate “reform” slate</a>; progressives have also fielded a <a href="https://www.laborandworkingfamilies.com/">slate of 24 candidates</a>.

The goal is <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/16/san-francisco-moderate-democrats-party-dccc/">to secure a majority of committee seats.</a>&nbsp; The committee’s most sought-after power is the ability to make endorsements that carry the official San Francisco Democratic Party stamp of approval.&nbsp;

San Francisco moderate Democrats want a clean sweep of local party

The goal is <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/16/san-francisco-moderate-democrats-party-dccc/">to secure a majority of committee seats.</a>&nbsp; The committee’s most sought-after power is the ability to make endorsements that carry the official San Francisco Democratic Party stamp of approval.&nbsp;

Political insiders believe the official Democratic Party endorsement can swing races. So with the Mayor’s Office and six Board of Supervisors seats up for grabs in November, it’s no wonder the DCCC race is getting extra attention.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Political insiders believe the official Democratic Party endorsement can swing races. So with the Mayor’s Office and six Board of Supervisors seats up for grabs in November, it’s no wonder the DCCC race is getting extra attention.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Stirrings of change have also captured San Francisco’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/27/how-san-francisco-republican-party-died/">usually sleepy Republican party</a>, where a reform slate <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/30/san-francisco-republican-party-briones-society-candidates-rccc/">is also in the running</a>.&nbsp;

How the San Francisco Republican Party died

This group of San Francisco Republicans wants to revive their party in 2024

Stirrings of change have also captured San Francisco’s <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/27/how-san-francisco-republican-party-died/">usually sleepy Republican party</a>, where a reform slate <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/30/san-francisco-republican-party-briones-society-candidates-rccc/">is also in the running</a>.&nbsp;

November Elections: The Balance of Power at City Hall

November Elections: The Balance of Power at City Hall

District Supervisors Connie Chan, left, and Dean Preston, right, listen during a hearing about resignation letters at City Hall in San Francisco on Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2022.

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/INLINED05_DCCCBattle092923.jpg?w=2500" alt="Supervisors Connie Chan and Dean Preston listen during a hearing at City Hall in San Francisco." class="wp-image-210831"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Progessive Supervisors Connie Chan, left, and Dean Preston, right, face reelection next November. </figcaption></figure>

In November, San Francisco’s elections for mayor, district attorney, sheriff, city attorney and treasurer will <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/07/12/mayor-breed-is-not-a-fan-of-supervisors-plan-to-change-citywide-elections/">coincide with a presidential election</a>, ensuring a high turnout in these local contests. That’s by design, as voters chose to consolidate those elections <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/07/12/mayor-breed-is-not-a-fan-of-supervisors-plan-to-change-citywide-elections/">last year</a>. The November election will also include contests for the odd-numbered seats on the Board of Supervisors.

Mayor Breed is not a fan of proposal to change citywide election dates

In November, San Francisco’s elections for mayor, district attorney, sheriff, city attorney and treasurer will <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/07/12/mayor-breed-is-not-a-fan-of-supervisors-plan-to-change-citywide-elections/">coincide with a presidential election</a>, ensuring a high turnout in these local contests. That’s by design, as voters chose to consolidate those elections <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2022/07/12/mayor-breed-is-not-a-fan-of-supervisors-plan-to-change-citywide-elections/">last year</a>. The November election will also include contests for the odd-numbered seats on the Board of Supervisors.

Breed is at risk of losing her reelection bid, with <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/04/26/san-francisco-mayor-polls-london-breed-challengers-election-2024/">multiple polls</a> showing low approval of the mayor’s performance. But the Board of Supervisors also has poor numbers. Recent polls show <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/19/new-poll-growsf-san-francisco-crimes-go-unreported/">support for the tough-on-crime policies Breed endorses</a>, but the big question is whether the public believes she can effectively implement them.&nbsp;

Who wants to run San Francisco? Mystery polls lay out London Breed&#8217;s potential challengers

Drug crackdowns strongly supported by San Francisco residents, poll finds

Breed is at risk of losing her reelection bid, with <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/04/26/san-francisco-mayor-polls-london-breed-challengers-election-2024/">multiple polls</a> showing low approval of the mayor’s performance. But the Board of Supervisors also has poor numbers. Recent polls show <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/19/new-poll-growsf-san-francisco-crimes-go-unreported/">support for the tough-on-crime policies Breed endorses</a>, but the big question is whether the public believes she can effectively implement them.&nbsp;

Her two main opponents—Supervisor <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/05/08/san-francisco-supervisor-files-paperwork-to-run-against-mayor-london-breed/">Ahsha Safaí</a> and philanthropist <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/26/qa-daniel-lurie-cites-crisis-of-leadership-in-run-for-san-francisco-mayor/">Daniel Lurie</a>— have lower name recognition, but others could still enter the race. Board President Aaron Peskin said <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/03/san-francisco-supervisor-aaron-peskin-says-people-want-him-to-run-for-mayor/">supporters have urged him to run</a>, and there’s also a movement to draft <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/29/mark-farrell-san-francisco-mayor-race-london-breed-2024/">former supervisor and interim Mayor Mark Farrell</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Mayor London Breed gets a reelection challenger

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

Her two main opponents—Supervisor <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/05/08/san-francisco-supervisor-files-paperwork-to-run-against-mayor-london-breed/">Ahsha Safaí</a> and philanthropist <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/26/qa-daniel-lurie-cites-crisis-of-leadership-in-run-for-san-francisco-mayor/">Daniel Lurie</a>— have lower name recognition, but others could still enter the race. Board President Aaron Peskin said <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/10/03/san-francisco-supervisor-aaron-peskin-says-people-want-him-to-run-for-mayor/">supporters have urged him to run</a>, and there’s also a movement to draft <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/11/29/mark-farrell-san-francisco-mayor-race-london-breed-2024/">former supervisor and interim Mayor Mark Farrell</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Six of 11 seats on the Board of Supervisors are also up for grabs in November. Supervisors Peskin, Safaí and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/12/san-francisco-politician-apologizes-for-accidentally-helping-gang-member/">Hillary Ronen</a> are termed out, so their seats are open.&nbsp;

Six of 11 seats on the Board of Supervisors are also up for grabs in November. Supervisors Peskin, Safaí and <a href="https://sfstandard.com/2023/09/12/san-francisco-politician-apologizes-for-accidentally-helping-gang-member/">Hillary Ronen</a> are termed out, so their seats are open.&nbsp;

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

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