Moderate Democrats Push Back in San Francisco
Moderate Democrats in San Francisco are increasingly opposing progressive candidates. They feel that these candidates might disrupt the work of left-wing politicians who have been trying to address issues like rising homelessness and crime in the city, as highlighted in a recent report.
A group called Neighbors for a Better San Francisco has amassed $10 million aimed at influencing local elections. Their goal is to ensure that progressives are not reelected, keeping the city on its centrist path.
According to the report, these moderates are particularly focused on defeating a proposed CEO tax put forth by labor unions, which is set for the upcoming June primary ballot. They worry this tax could hinder the city’s economic recovery and worsen the existing vacancy problem in downtown offices.
As progressives try to regain a firmer grasp on San Francisco’s politics, Neighbors for a Better San Francisco is dedicated to maintaining a moderate majority on the oversight board and the city school board. They also plan to focus on educating voters, especially after the recent teacher strike.
Amid reports of a significant exodus from the city, a drop in public school enrollment, and skyrocketing housing prices, these moderates feel the pressure. In 2024, the city elected new Mayor Daniel Lurie, who replaced the previous, more progressive Democrat, London Breed. This change suggests a pivot away from lenient approaches to crime, homelessness, and drug issues—policies criticized for contributing to the city’s challenges.
Neighbors for a Better San Francisco’s website mentions support for “public safety, serious solutions to homelessness, quality public education, fiscal responsibility, and good government.” Jay Chen, the group’s director, comments that there’s an urgent need to stop what he calls a “wave” that’s heading toward them.
Raphael Mandelman, the chairman of the moderate majority in City Hall, has expressed concern that national issues, particularly Democratic midterm elections centered around President Donald Trump, might overshadow local concerns. “It’s difficult to maintain a center in a place like this,” he remarked, noting the contrast between realists and more idealistic visions.
