San Francisco’s mayoral candidates are increasingly focusing on District 5, where Mayor London Breed and former Supervisor Mark Farrell are backing their preferred candidates in the race for supervisor against incumbent Dean Preston.
Political newcomer Scotty Jacobs recently announced he has received an endorsement from Farrell, while earlier in the month, Breed endorsed Bilal Mahmood, another relatively new candidate. Preston, in contrast, retains the support of Supervisor Aaron Peskin, who had attended Preston’s re-election event before declaring his own mayoral candidacy.
Interest in other districts has not reached the same level among mayoral candidates; Farrell has not made endorsements in any of the five additional supervisor races, and Daniel Lurie has refrained from endorsing anyone. Meanwhile, Breed and Peskin have issued sporadic endorsements throughout the city.
District 5 is among the most scrutinized supervisor races this election cycle, with candidates from the diverse areas of Haight-Ashbury to the Tenderloin raising nearly $1 million in contributions and public financing. Additionally, external groups have raised significant amounts aimed at ousting Preston, recognized as the city’s most progressive elected official.
Peskin’s endorsement of Preston aligns with their long-standing political relationship, suggesting that progressive voters in District 5 may support both Preston for supervisor and Peskin for mayor.
Political analysts express skepticism regarding the significance of mayoral endorsements for District 5 candidates. They argue that the endorsement advantages may instead accrue to the mayoral candidates. Farrell, who is less known in the progressive district, has previously faced pushback from residents for his conservative policies.
Jim Stearns, a consultant for Peskin, indicated that Farrell’s endorsement of Jacobs might be more about securing votes from Jacobs than about generating support for him. Jacobs has been actively campaigning throughout the district.
Jacobs, who advocates for stricter public safety measures, acknowledged his support for Farrell’s mayoral campaign. As of June 30, Jacobs had raised $23,355 for his candidacy.
“I’m honored to have Mark’s sole endorsement. With Mark’s pragmatism and a solid mix of public and private sector experience, I know that together, we can get San Francisco back on track,” remarked Jacobs, who transitioned from a brand management role to pursue public office.
Jacobs characterized District 5 as the “ground-zero of the rapidly shifting political landscape across San Francisco” and highlighted their shared policies, which include enhancing police resources and supporting measures to drug test welfare recipients.
Another political observer suggested that Farrell’s involvement in the District 5 race may serve to differentiate him from Breed and expand his appeal among potential supporters.
“It’s not necessarily about winning in District 5,” they noted. “It’s about signaling who else he’s trying to attract by endorsing Jacobs.” While Mahmood has employed progressive messaging, Jacobs has embraced a more rightward shift.
The observer indicated that Breed’s motivations may also mirror Farrell’s, particularly given her past conflicts with Preston, who has consistently challenged her agenda.
“There’s a strategic element to her endorsement of Mahmood,” they said. “Breed may want to keep influential supporters happy since Mahmood appeals to a wealthier constituency.”
Mahmood has garnered backing from tech industry figures like crypto billionaire Chris Larsen and investor Ron Conway, both of whom supported Breed’s police initiative earlier this year. Mahmood also serves as an elected member of the local Democratic Party chapter, which recently endorsed Breed.
However, Stein warned that Breed’s unpopularity might negatively affect Mahmood’s campaign. According to recent polling, Breed’s approval ratings have improved but still pose a challenge.
“An endorsement from an unpopular mayor could hinder Mahmood’s chances,” Stein said, “as voters often prefer a supervisor who won’t simply align with the mayor.”
Both candidates appear to anticipate collaboration with those they endorse if they succeed in the election.
“I need a supervisor from my neighborhood who is willing to work with me,” Breed stated during Mahmood’s campaign kickoff. She mentioned that it took her some time to endorse a candidate due to her thorough assessment of the field, even acknowledging Jacobs’ efforts.
Farrell expressed his connection to Jacobs, citing his own experience as a former underdog candidate and describing Jacobs as the change that District 5 needs.
“He is focused on the critical issues facing the district, and we urgently require a new voice that embodies San Francisco’s future,” Farrell stated, emphasizing Jacobs as a vital ally in City Hall.
This article has been updated to clarify that Breed has made endorsements in other districts.