Oakland voters oust mayor over growing crime concerns

Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao: In a historic move, Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao was decisively recalled by voters, marking the first successful recall of a sitting Oakland mayor in over a century. The unofficial results of Tuesday’s general election show a clear margin: 63.85% support recall while 36.15% oppose.

Thao’s ouster comes just two years after she took office, narrowly winning the mayoral race in 2022. Her tenure has been marred by mounting criticism over her handling of Oakland’s ongoing crime and homelessness crisis. Her decision to fire former Police Chief LeRonne Armstrong, who had broad support in the community, sparked controversy. In addition, Thao’s administration faced backlash after missing a crucial deadline to apply for federal funds to combat retail theft at a time when Oakland’s budget deficit was large.

Despite the challenges, Thao defended her record, pointing to a decline in homicides this year and progress in revitalizing parts of the city, such as selling the city’s share of the Oakland Coliseum for redevelopment. In her concession statement, Thao expressed gratitude for the opportunity to take the lead, stating, “It was always about Oakland. The changes we have made in these two short years will be felt for generations to come.”

Thao’s recall was strongly supported by the Oakland Police Officers Association and several prominent community activists. Critics accused her of mismanaging city resources and failing to ensure public safety. The Oakland Police Officers Union hailed the recall as a victory for restoring law and order, citing the rise in crime in the city during her tenure.

The recall effort was led by several local leaders, including retired Alameda County Superior Court Judge Brenda Harbin-Forte, activist Seneca Scott and former Oakland Chinatown Chamber of Commerce President Carl Chan. The campaign to oust Thao gained momentum as residents grew frustrated with crime, homelessness and perceptions of ineffective leadership.

Oakland City Council President Nikki Fortunato Bas is expected to serve as interim mayor. The city must organize a special election to fill the mayor’s seat within 120 days, likely in late April. Potential candidates include Loren Taylor, who narrowly defeated Thao in 2022, and prominent figures such as Congresswoman Barbara Lee.

This latest recall highlights a growing trend in California, where voters are increasingly turning to recalls to address frustrations with local leadership. Just last year, San Francisco District Attorney Chesa Boudin was also fired amid a public backlash over what were perceived as lenient crime policies.

Thao’s departure puts Oakland at a crossroads. The city now faces the challenge of electing a new leader capable of addressing public safety concerns while overcoming the financial hurdles that have exacerbated urban decline. As residents prepare for a new chapter, Oakland’s future remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the need for decisive and effective leadership has never been greater.