Oakland voters say tight mayoral race came down to experience versus upstart energy
Briefly

The Oakland mayoral election culminated in a choice between former Congresswoman Barbara Lee and city council member Loren Taylor, reflecting a divide among voters regarding experience versus fresh ideas. With the city grappling with a substantial budget deficit and declining public trust following Mayor Sheng Thao's recall and bribery charges, voters expressed concerns over homelessness, crime rates, and police funding. Both candidates sought to differentiate themselves while connecting the other to past controversies, framing this election as crucial to guide Oakland through its current challenges.
"I went with Loren for the fact that I want to see what new, fresh legs in there would be able to do. Barbara is great, but I want to see what new blood does."
"We're at an inflection point, and we need to change the trajectory of the city. I don't have anything bad to say about Loren, but I think at this time in Oakland's history, the better choice is Barbara Lee."
Read at The Mercury News
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