D
aniel Lurie, heir to the Levi Strauss fortune and philanthropist, appears poised to become San Francisco's next mayor after promising to streamline development regulations. In early ranked-choice voting returns, Lurie led Mayor London Breed 56.34% to 43.66%. A moderate with a background in nonprofit work, Lurie has pledged to aggressively address housing issues and reduce red tape for small businesses.

    San Francisco's shift to remote work has left over 37% of office space vacant, hurting downtown shops and restaurants. Lurie said the initial results made him feel optimistic, but acknowledged that turning around the city would take time. He emphasized the need to end divisive politics and make San Franciscans feel loved by their city.

    Across the Bay, Oakland voters decided on two major recalls. Mayor Sheng Thao's recall was ahead in early returns, with 65.2% of voters supporting her removal from office. If the trend continues, Thao would be the first Oakland mayor ever to be recalled. A recall of progressive District Attorney Pamela Price also led, with 64.8% of votes cast against her.

    Crime and public safety have been major concerns in Oakland, contributing to a negative narrative surrounding the city. Commercial interests spent millions on recalling Price, who was elected in 2022 by a narrow margin. If Thao is recalled, City Council President Nikki Fortunato Bas would become interim mayor until a special election is held in April.