Political Earthquake: Oakland Voters Make History by Recalling Mayor and District Attorney

In a remarkable display of civic power, Oakland voters have recalled both Mayor Sheng Thao and Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price. This unprecedented move, the first of its kind in modern Oakland history, reflects the electorate’s growing dissatisfaction with the city’s challenges, from crime and homelessness to economic strain.

Issues Behind the Recall

The recalls were fueled by public frustration over various issues:

  • A deepening housing crisis
  • Rising living costs
  • The departure of the city’s last remaining major league sports team

However, the catalyst was residents’ concerns over crime rates. While both violent and non-violent crime rates had shown signs of improvement — with homicides down 30% and notable reductions in shootings and robberies — many residents still viewed crime as intolerably high.

This frustration extended beyond Oakland, as California voters supported Prop 36, enacting stricter penalties for theft, property crimes, and drug offenses. They also rejected Prop 6, which proposed banning forced prison labor. Wealthy residents, such as hedge-fund manager Philip Dreyfuss and billionaire tech investor Ron Conway, were significant funders of the recall campaigns, showing a broader dissatisfaction with current leadership.

Thao’s Brief Tenure and Challenges

Mayor Sheng Thao, who took office just two years ago as the first Hmong American mayor of a major U.S. city, faced opposition early on, from the police department to moderate opponents in her initial campaign. Her administration came under heightened scrutiny after an FBI raid on her home as part of a corruption investigation. While no charges have been brought against Thao, the raid compounded residents’ concerns. Despite the challenges, Thao cited significant achievements in addressing the city’s housing and economic issues. Following her recall, she expressed pride in her accomplishments and a commitment to a smooth transition.

Price’s Criminal Justice Reform Platform

Pamela Price, the first Black woman to serve as Alameda County district attorney, faced a challenging tenure. Her platform, centered on criminal justice reform and law enforcement accountability, sparked backlash from the start. With the recall confirmed, the Alameda County Board of Supervisors will appoint an interim district attorney until a new election is held.

Next Steps for Oakland

City Council President Nikki Fortunato Bas will serve as interim mayor until a special election is held within 120 days. Election results are expected to be certified by December 5, allowing for the official declaration of vacancy at the council’s next meeting.

This historic recall not only reshapes Oakland’s political landscape but also sets the stage for a new era of governance, reflecting evolving attitudes in California toward crime, accountability, and leadership.