Daniel Lurie, the newly elected mayor of San Francisco, delivered his inaugural public remarks in Chinatown after Mayor London Breed conceded the race. Celebrating with a crowd of 100 to 200 people, Lurie expressed gratitude to his family and supporters and laid out an ambitious vision for the city, emphasizing the need to support vital community workers like teachers, police officers, and nurses, as well as to revitalize local businesses.
Lurie announced that he would declare a fentanyl state of emergency on his first day in office, signifying his proactive stance on addressing pressing issues. He acknowledged the importance of community engagement, promising to meet with department heads individually to facilitate a smooth transition, while also emphasizing that Breed will remain in office until January.
The election results showed Lurie leading with 119,440 votes (56.2%) against his opponent’s 93,079 votes (43.8%), marking a significant victory as he unseated an incumbent mayor for the first time since 1991. He recognized the support from the Asian American Pacific Islander community and westside residents as key to his success.
Lurie, who is the heir to the Levi Strauss estate and founded the nonprofit Tipping Point Community, campaigned vigorously, raising over $9.6 million, which included substantial personal contributions. In contrast, Breed raised around $2.3 million in total.
Supporters highlighted that Lurie’s victory wasn’t just about campaign financing but rooted in a genuine desire for change. As one campaign volunteer stated, people’s support outweighs financial contributions, showcasing a collective hope for a better future. Lurie’s call for more housing, local labor engagement, and an increase in business activities resonated with San Franciscans looking for positive transformation.
Looking ahead, Lurie aims not only to confront current challenges but also to promote inclusivity and tackle issues of racism and bigotry in San Francisco. He will officially take office as the city’s 46th mayor on January 8, marking the beginning of a new era for the city.
In summary, Lurie’s victory brings a promise of rejuvenation for San Francisco. His commitment to public safety, economic revitalization, and community support fosters optimism among residents eager for positive change. As he prepares to take office, there is a palpable sense of hope for a brighter future in San Francisco.