SAN FRANCISCO — Daniel Lurie, a descendant of the Levi Strauss legacy and a philanthropist without prior political experience, made a commitment on Friday to support struggling small businesses and eliminate open-air drug markets if he is elected mayor of San Francisco.
In his first public comments following a call from Mayor London Breed conceding the race, Lurie addressed supporters at a park in San Francisco’s Chinatown, emphasizing that he heard their pleas for accountable leadership and change.
Lurie explained his choice of Chinatown for this announcement, highlighting the area’s significance in revitalizing San Francisco. The day after the election, he explored the neighborhood and returned to meet with local merchants, understanding that Chinese voters play a crucial role in citywide elections.
As of Friday, many ballots from Tuesday’s election were still uncounted, and therefore a definitive winner has not yet been announced. However, early election results indicated that Lurie held a strong lead, prompting Breed to reach out and offer her congratulations. She shared on social media that she and her team would ensure a smooth transition for Lurie as he prepares to assume the mayoral office.
Lurie’s rise in the race is noteworthy for a candidate who began with limited recognition and successfully outperformed two San Francisco supervisors and a former interim mayor. His financial resources played a significant role, as he invested nearly $9 million of his own funds into his campaign, alongside raising over $16 million, which included $1 million from his mother, Mimi Haas. Lurie’s familial connections also include being the step-son of the late Peter Haas, a well-known figure associated with Levi Strauss.
The previous victory of Breed as the first Black female mayor — who experienced poverty during her upbringing — encapsulated the progressive spirit of the city, but her tenure encountered challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic led to business closures, and many tech workers opted to work remotely, resulting in an increase in tent encampments and public drug use. While there were improvements in street cleanliness and a reduction in visible homeless encampments, a daytime shooting incident reignited discussions around public safety, causing critics to challenge Breed’s effectiveness.
Politically, Lurie aligns with Breed’s policies, advocating for increased housing development, tougher measures against drug dealers, and providing options for the homeless population while addressing the needs of drug users holistically. As a political newcomer, he aims to scrutinize bureaucratic operations and eliminate inefficiencies while emphasizing accountability.
Lurie has proposed to enhance police presence, declare a state of emergency concerning fentanyl, create 1,500 temporary shelter beds within six months, and simplify permit processes to encourage small business growth. Despite criticism from opponents regarding his substantial campaign expenditure, many of his supporters were unfazed, expressing familiarity and approval of his anti-poverty work through Tipping Point Community, a nonprofit he founded in 2005.
“I’m thrilled to have Daniel here because he is free from special interests,” expressed Shirletha Holmes-Boxx, a community organizer. “His motivation stems purely from a passion for this city.”
At 47 years old, Lurie mentioned intentions to place his assets into a blind trust and consider waiving the mayor’s $380,000 salary. Additionally, Paul Yep, a retired commander from the San Francisco Police Department, praised Lurie’s vision and passion for the city. “His commitment and love for San Francisco were evident to me,” Yep expressed. “The perspective of an outsider is just what is necessary.”
On Friday, Lurie planned to visit several locations throughout the city, including a senior center and various community events, enjoying lunch, ice cream with his children, and social gatherings. “Many people cherish this city; it’s time for us to ensure they feel that love in return,” Lurie stated, accompanied by his wife Becca Prowda, as supporters celebrated with applause and cheers.
