SF politics

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#san-francisco

SF domestic violence survivors struggle to get legal counsel, even though it was guaranteed in 2022

Domestic violence survivors in San Francisco struggle to access legal representation despite significant funding and initiatives.

SF Mayor Lurie Launches His 1st Legislative Push: Fentanyl Emergency Response | KQED

Lurie's ordinances aim to expedite responses to the fentanyl crisis but require approval from the Board of Supervisors.

Peskin: The narrative that SF is turning away from progressives isn't entirely true - 48 hills

Aaron Peskin's career highlights effective progressive leadership and local advocacy against powerful corporate interests.

San Francisco doesn't need any more free concerts

SF Live provided a significant policy victory for Mayor London Breed, delivering free concerts that economically benefited local artists and venues.

Why a Push to Make San Francisco's North Beach a Historic District Has Housing Advocates Worried | KQED

A local group in North Beach seeks historic district status, sparking concerns it may prevent new housing development.

Lurie Rolls Out Fentanyl State of Emergency Ordinance, But Supervisors' Dissent Already Brewing

Mayor Daniel Lurie faces challenges in swiftly passing his Fentanyl State of Emergency Ordinance due to pushback and concerns about oversight.

SF domestic violence survivors struggle to get legal counsel, even though it was guaranteed in 2022

Domestic violence survivors in San Francisco struggle to access legal representation despite significant funding and initiatives.

SF Mayor Lurie Launches His 1st Legislative Push: Fentanyl Emergency Response | KQED

Lurie's ordinances aim to expedite responses to the fentanyl crisis but require approval from the Board of Supervisors.

Peskin: The narrative that SF is turning away from progressives isn't entirely true - 48 hills

Aaron Peskin's career highlights effective progressive leadership and local advocacy against powerful corporate interests.

San Francisco doesn't need any more free concerts

SF Live provided a significant policy victory for Mayor London Breed, delivering free concerts that economically benefited local artists and venues.

Why a Push to Make San Francisco's North Beach a Historic District Has Housing Advocates Worried | KQED

A local group in North Beach seeks historic district status, sparking concerns it may prevent new housing development.

Lurie Rolls Out Fentanyl State of Emergency Ordinance, But Supervisors' Dissent Already Brewing

Mayor Daniel Lurie faces challenges in swiftly passing his Fentanyl State of Emergency Ordinance due to pushback and concerns about oversight.
moresan-francisco

In 2024, SF Saw Fewest Fatal Drug Overdoses In Five Years

San Francisco saw a significant decline in fentanyl overdose deaths in 2024, with 633 reported deaths, marking a 22% reduction from 2023.

Police detain Tesla driver accused of hit-and-run on I-280 and a multiple-vehicle crash in SF that killed one

A multi-vehicle collision in San Francisco resulted in one fatality and multiple injuries, with a possible suspect detained for investigation.
#protests

Smaller anti-Trump protests dot the Bay Area ahead of inauguration

Protests against Trump in 2021 are quieter compared to 2016 due to public fatigue.

A 100% tax on Brits buying homes in Spain sounds satisfying but it won't solve our housing crisis | Maria Ramirez

Housing affordability is a critical issue in Spain, with rising rents threatening the economic stability of many young workers.

Smaller anti-Trump protests dot the Bay Area ahead of inauguration

Protests against Trump in 2021 are quieter compared to 2016 due to public fatigue.

A 100% tax on Brits buying homes in Spain sounds satisfying but it won't solve our housing crisis | Maria Ramirez

Housing affordability is a critical issue in Spain, with rising rents threatening the economic stability of many young workers.
moreprotests

7-vehicle San Francisco crash kills 1 person and dog, damages Waymo

A multi-vehicle collision in San Francisco involving a Waymo autonomous vehicle resulted in one fatality and significant street closures.

Person and dog killed, several hurt in SF multi-car crash involving Waymo vehicle, authorities say

A multi-vehicle collision in San Francisco resulted in one fatality and multiple injuries, involving a self-driving Waymo car that was unoccupied.
#political-leadership

Faiz Shakir's Late Entry Shakes Up the Race for DNC Chair

The DNC chair race has become competitive with the entry of Faiz Shakir, who emphasizes the need for a new vision for the party.

So far, Mayor Lurie's fentanyl plan is missing just one thing: A plan

Mayor Lurie must transition from vague campaign promises to specific, actionable policies to be effective in office.

Faiz Shakir's Late Entry Shakes Up the Race for DNC Chair

The DNC chair race has become competitive with the entry of Faiz Shakir, who emphasizes the need for a new vision for the party.

So far, Mayor Lurie's fentanyl plan is missing just one thing: A plan

Mayor Lurie must transition from vague campaign promises to specific, actionable policies to be effective in office.
morepolitical-leadership

Bay Area mom says 90% of her income is from TikTok as app's future still uncertain

TikTok's temporary shutdown highlighted widespread concerns among its users, particularly influencers reliant on the platform for income.

Man and child hospitalized after water rescue at San Mateo Co. beach, officials say

A near-drowning incident occurred at Cowell Ranch State Beach involving an adult and a child.

Strong winds in North Bay with advisory in effect: Here's how long it'll last

A Wind Advisory is in effect for parts of California, with gusts over 50 mph causing concerns for downed trees and power outages.

NYC Housing Calendar, Jan. 20-27

City Limits rounds up the latest housing and land use-related events, public hearings and affordable housing lotteries that are ending soon.
from The Mercury News
1 day ago

After SCOTUS ruling, Bay Area big cities vowed to close more homeless camps. But have they ramped up sweeps?

Local governments are intensifying efforts to clear homeless encampments, but the region's unhoused population continues to grow significantly.

San Francisco Fire Department shows off its emergency readiness in preparedness drill: 'Be vigilant'

San Francisco showcases readiness for disaster response with innovative firefighting technology and significant water supply.
#infrastructure

California high-speed rail: Why 2025 could make or break embattled bullet train project

California's high-speed rail project faces critical challenges in 2025 regarding funding and political support under a potential Trump administration.

'Transportation Cannot Do It Alone': US DOT Dep. Sec. Polly Trottenberg Signs Off - Streetsblog USA

U.S. transportation has undergone transformational changes due to major infrastructure investments and a focus on inclusive community benefits.

California high-speed rail: Why 2025 could make or break embattled bullet train project

California's high-speed rail project faces critical challenges in 2025 regarding funding and political support under a potential Trump administration.

'Transportation Cannot Do It Alone': US DOT Dep. Sec. Polly Trottenberg Signs Off - Streetsblog USA

U.S. transportation has undergone transformational changes due to major infrastructure investments and a focus on inclusive community benefits.
moreinfrastructure
#activism

Rink Remembers 1.16.25 - San Francisco Bay Times

Allan Baird's activism linked labor rights and LGBTQ+ equality, significantly influencing the movements in the 1970s.

Video: Why We Need a Global Freeway Fighters' Network - Streetsblog USA

Germany’s A100 Autobahn expansion highlights the disconnect between European sustainability perceptions and local motorway expansion realities.
The absence of a unified global network leaves activists isolated in their opposition to freeway construction.

Rink Remembers 1.16.25 - San Francisco Bay Times

Allan Baird's activism linked labor rights and LGBTQ+ equality, significantly influencing the movements in the 1970s.

Video: Why We Need a Global Freeway Fighters' Network - Streetsblog USA

Germany’s A100 Autobahn expansion highlights the disconnect between European sustainability perceptions and local motorway expansion realities.
The absence of a unified global network leaves activists isolated in their opposition to freeway construction.
moreactivism

TikTok says it's in the process of restoring service to US users

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) TikTok says it's in the process of restoring service to US users.
Originally Published: January 19, 2025 at 9:46 AM PST
from www.npr.org
2 days ago

After major 2024 defeats, the Democratic Party searches for a new direction

Democrats seek to rebuild leadership and infrastructure after significant electoral losses, emphasizing investment in state parties and year-round organizing.

Oakland leaders react to former Mayor Sheng Thao's bribery accusations: 'Shocked and disappointed'

Former Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao faces serious federal indictments, impacting public trust and highlighting long-standing corruption issues in the city.
#community-event

"Arm Day, Leg Day" Art Pop-Up at Chinatown Flower Market (Jan. 25-26)

The Art Pop-Up features interactive installations promoting health, fortune, and community engagement during Lunar New Year celebrations in San Francisco's Chinatown.

Harvey Milk LGBTQ Democratic Club Holigay Party - San Francisco Bay Times

The Holigay Party fosters community engagement and fundraising for the Harvey Milk LGBTQ Democratic Club.

"Arm Day, Leg Day" Art Pop-Up at Chinatown Flower Market (Jan. 25-26)

The Art Pop-Up features interactive installations promoting health, fortune, and community engagement during Lunar New Year celebrations in San Francisco's Chinatown.

Harvey Milk LGBTQ Democratic Club Holigay Party - San Francisco Bay Times

The Holigay Party fosters community engagement and fundraising for the Harvey Milk LGBTQ Democratic Club.
morecommunity-event

Loren Taylor revs up second campaign for Oakland mayor

Loren Taylor is running for mayor, positioning himself as a political outsider focused on addressing Oakland's deep-seated budget and safety issues.
#democratic-party

Sunrise Calls on Next DNC Chair to Curb Corporate Influence in Democratic Party

The Sunrise Movement urges Democratic candidates to ban corporate donations and super PAC spending to restore integrity in the party.

What Will the New DNC Chair Do to Curb the Role of Outside Money in Democratic Primaries?

Dark money poses a significant threat to Democratic leadership and direction, particularly in the upcoming DNC Chair selection.

Democrats support measure that would oust sheriff

The San Mateo County Democratic Central Committee endorsed Measure A, allowing for the potential removal of Sheriff Christina Corpus amid serious allegations.

Sunrise Calls on Next DNC Chair to Curb Corporate Influence in Democratic Party

The Sunrise Movement urges Democratic candidates to ban corporate donations and super PAC spending to restore integrity in the party.

What Will the New DNC Chair Do to Curb the Role of Outside Money in Democratic Primaries?

Dark money poses a significant threat to Democratic leadership and direction, particularly in the upcoming DNC Chair selection.

Democrats support measure that would oust sheriff

The San Mateo County Democratic Central Committee endorsed Measure A, allowing for the potential removal of Sheriff Christina Corpus amid serious allegations.
moredemocratic-party

Video: It's Dungeness crab season in San Francisco

January is the peak season for fresh Dungeness crab in San Francisco.

The Hopper Notebook: Seven of My Top Traditional and Iconic Pasta Dishes in San Francisco

For supporting subscribers!
A deep dive into my favorite classic and quintessential SF pasta dishes.

3 Inches of Blood

Disclaimer: Please double check event information with the event organizer as events can be canceled, details can change after they are added to our calendar, and errors do occur.
from Truthout
3 days ago

US Politics Didn't Shift as Rightward in 2024 Elections as You May Think

Democrats experienced national electoral defeats, but unexpected support for progressive measures at state and local levels indicates a more complex political landscape.
from Axios
3 days ago

First look: Mayors across U.S. warn of worsening housing crisis

Mayors warn of a worsening housing shortage, estimating an additional two million units needed in the next five years.

Deportations And ICE Tactics Worry NYC Mayoral Hopefuls

Candidates criticized the current administration's handling of housing and immigration, uniting them despite differing views on transportation reforms.

How to Save the Democrats

The Democratic Party faces significant challenges due to a loss of support from key voter demographics, particularly working-class individuals.
Internal tensions exist in the party, with a need for a focus on delivering results for constituents over career aspirations.

San Francisco set for blockbuster weekend in February with influx of visitors expected

San Francisco is preparing extensively for a busy weekend in February with multiple major events, emphasizing public safety and community support.
#portland

Confusion as Portland's Road Death Toll is Alarmingly High - Streetsblog USA

Portland's Vision Zero plan to eliminate traffic deaths is failing, with rising fatalities on roadways among pedestrians and cyclists.

City Council Solidifies New Policy Committees

Portland's new council committees will enhance public engagement and provide a structured approach for city policy development.
The change reflects a shift from traditional oversight roles to a more collaborative, legislative-like framework for councilors.

Confusion as Portland's Road Death Toll is Alarmingly High - Streetsblog USA

Portland's Vision Zero plan to eliminate traffic deaths is failing, with rising fatalities on roadways among pedestrians and cyclists.

City Council Solidifies New Policy Committees

Portland's new council committees will enhance public engagement and provide a structured approach for city policy development.
The change reflects a shift from traditional oversight roles to a more collaborative, legislative-like framework for councilors.
moreportland

Man arrested on suspicion of arson in South San Francisco

A young homeless man is arrested for arson in South San Francisco, highlighting issues related to homelessness and crime.

LGBTQ+ Dedicated Volunteers Celebrate Their Birthdays in Community - San Francisco Bay Times

Celebrating key LGBTQ+ community leaders, Ahmed Shalabi and Juan R. Davila, for their dedicated service and contributions to the San Francisco Bay Times and the community.

Former Oakland Councilmember Loren Taylor joins mayor's race

Loren Taylor is committed to revitalizing Oakland through improved small business support and enhancing public safety in his mayoral campaign.

Former Cupertino college trustee drops lawsuit against district - San Jose Spotlight

The lawsuit against Foothill-De Anza Community College District was dismissed, allowing the board and college to refocus on student priorities.
from www.npr.org
4 days ago

A need for speed: Several states are looking for ways to count votes faster

Legislators in several states are exploring changes to vote-counting rules to expedite election results while ensuring ballot access.
Public demand for quicker election results has increased, prompting legislative action in states like Arizona.

San Francisco plummets in rankings of best US cities amid rampant crime, soaring cost of living: study

San Francisco's quality of life has sharply declined, ranking 126th due to high living costs, crime, and corporate departures.

FIRST ON amNY: Stringer to release plan to build 20,000 affordable homes in 5 years as he officially launches mayoral bid | amNewYork

Scott Stringer aims to address New York City's housing crisis by promising 20,000 new affordable homes through a comprehensive plan.

Indigequeer advocate serves as a voice for Two-Spirit members in San Francisco

The American Indian Cultural District supports Native communities by providing resources, visibility, and promoting cultural resilience in San Francisco.

Ontario election speculation ramps up: Get the latest here | CBC

All major Ontario parties are rushing to nominate candidates for a potential early election due to increasing speculation about its timing.

Ashes to ashes: What L.A. can learn from San Francisco's 1906 disaster

Los Angeles showcases unyielding resilience and opportunity even amidst significant natural disasters.

Heartbreak and Hope Amidst the Southern CA Wildfires - San Francisco Bay Times

The ongoing Southern California wildfires are deeply impacting the community, prompting heartfelt stories of resilience and heroism from affected individuals and first responders.
#city-council

FBI raids home of San Leandro councilmember

FBI searches home of San Leandro Councilmember Bryan Azevedo amid investigation into campaign contributions.

Seven Candidates Begin Race for San Jose District 3 Council Seat

A special election for San Jose City Council District 3 began, following a vacancy due to the former councilmember's resignation amid serious charges.

FBI raids home of San Leandro councilmember

FBI searches home of San Leandro Councilmember Bryan Azevedo amid investigation into campaign contributions.

Seven Candidates Begin Race for San Jose District 3 Council Seat

A special election for San Jose City Council District 3 began, following a vacancy due to the former councilmember's resignation amid serious charges.
morecity-council

Santa Clara County weighs raising campaign donation limits - San Jose Spotlight

Santa Clara County supervisors are considering raising fundraising limits for reelection campaigns to help candidates compete more fairly.

Day Around the Bay: Suspect Arrested In Marin After Dramatic Chase

San Francisco's economic ranking has drastically declined, impacting housing and job growth.
San Rafael police chase highlighted a suspect’s vehicle catching fire after evasion.
Conviction of two women for child neglect raises child protection concerns.
San Francisco Unified School District faces financial penalties for tutoring oversight.

San Francisco SPCA rescues animals from overcrowded LA shelters impacted by wildfires

The San Francisco SPCA is helping adopt out animals from LA shelters displaced by wildfires to make room for affected pets.

High-profile San Jose office building might convert to housing site

A high-profile office building in San Jose tied to the co-founder of workspace pioneer WeWork could be converted into a housing complex with 100-plus units.

Can Labour fix the broken NHS? Politics Weekly UK

Click here to vote for Politics Weekly UK in the people's choice category of the iNHouse political podcast awards.
Photograph: Jeff Moore/PA

CPI report today: Home sales decline amid high housing costs, California wildfires, and frigid weather in other parts of U.S.

A mix of fire and snow is suppressing the housing market this month.
from ABC7 Los Angeles
5 days ago

CDC confirms positive bird flu result in San Francisco child

A child in San Francisco has tested positive for bird flu, marking the second case in children nationwide.
Investigations are ongoing to determine how the child was exposed.

Crocker-Amazon and Daly City Border Deemed the Only 'High' Fire Risk Areas in San Francisco

San Francisco has specific areas identified as moderate to high risk for wildfires, despite its overall perception of immunity.

Humpday Headlines: Israel and Hamas Reach Ceasefire Deal

Israel and Hamas achieved a ceasefire after 15 months of conflict, mediated in Doha, with partial hostage release included.

Exclusive | Disgraced 'love gov' Andrew Cuomo's political prospects looking up as New Yorkers back him for mayor over Adams, Stringer

Andrew Cuomo could dominate the NYC mayoral primary if he decides to run again, despite past controversies.

Ahead of Trump's inauguration, philanthropy is fueling political activism on the right and left

The rise of donor-advised funds (DAFs) allows wealthy individuals to significantly influence political agendas through tax-advantaged, anonymous charitable contributions.

NEA Awards $2.5 Million in Grants to Bay Area Arts Organizations

The grants provide essential funding to support various nonprofit organizations and cultural initiatives across California.
#local-government

Opinion: Council should reject downtown housing plan

High-density public housing proposals in Menlo Park threaten local businesses due to lack of parking, with residents pushing back against poorly communicated plans.

Campbell makes building duplexes easier on single-family lots - San Jose Spotlight

Campbell City Council has adopted a policy to comply with Senate Bill 450, facilitating development of duplexes and fourplexes in designated neighborhoods.

Opinion: Council should reject downtown housing plan

High-density public housing proposals in Menlo Park threaten local businesses due to lack of parking, with residents pushing back against poorly communicated plans.

Campbell makes building duplexes easier on single-family lots - San Jose Spotlight

Campbell City Council has adopted a policy to comply with Senate Bill 450, facilitating development of duplexes and fourplexes in designated neighborhoods.
morelocal-government

Good intentions pave incumbents' road to reelection | Cornell Chronicle

Voters consider both the intentions and outcomes of incumbents when deciding to support them for reelection.

Former Prime Minister Pushes Crypto to Boost Thailand's Economy Featured Bitcoin News

Thailand's former prime minister has urged cryptocurrency-friendly policies and a 20% tax on online gambling, projecting billions in revenue to spur economic modernization.

Trump CIA pick to push for "the mission" over politics at hearing

Ratcliffe will rail against the politicization of the intelligence community during his Senate Intelligence Committee hearing today, a transition source tells Axios.

"Back to The Future: The Musical" Comes to in SF (Feb. 12 - Mar. 9)

Great Scott!
BACK TO THE FUTURE, the beloved, cinematic classic is now a Broadway musical with its destination set for San Francisco in 2025.
#airbnb

Day Around the Bay: DOJ Sues Airbnb Over Hosts With Anti-Child Policy

DOJ is suing Airbnb for allegedly discriminating against families with children, as hosts can mark properties as unsuitable for children.

Airbnb sued by DOJ after alleged housing bias against mother with children

The DOJ is suing Airbnb for allowing discriminatory rental practices against families with children.

Day Around the Bay: DOJ Sues Airbnb Over Hosts With Anti-Child Policy

DOJ is suing Airbnb for allegedly discriminating against families with children, as hosts can mark properties as unsuitable for children.

Airbnb sued by DOJ after alleged housing bias against mother with children

The DOJ is suing Airbnb for allowing discriminatory rental practices against families with children.
moreairbnb

Newsom Orders Suspension of CEQA for Fire Rebuilds - Streetsblog California

Governor Newsom's executive order aims to expedite rebuilding after L.A. fires by suspending environmental reviews, raising concerns over long-term environmental safety.

Video: Trolley Buses are Great Nuts-and-Bolts Transit - Streetsblog San Francisco

Electric trolley buses in San Francisco prove effective for urban transit, enabling off-wire operation with battery packs, unlike speculative transportation technologies.

Billionaire Bill Ackman flexes political muscle, announces his pick for NYC mayor

Bill Ackman endorses Whitney Tilson for NYC mayor, aiming to steer the city away from the issues faced by San Francisco and Los Angeles.

Portland apartment purchase potential model for homeless services

Metro is considering revising its Supportive Housing Services measure to acquire existing properties due to declining apartment prices.
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