Progressive icon Barbara Lee has been declared the new mayor of Oakland, a city facing economic stagnation, crime, and homelessness. Lee, a former U.S. Representative and trailblazer, received the support of former Oakland mayors and Governor Jerry Brown. She emphasized the need for unity in a deeply divided city and hopes to address the issues facing Oakland.
The city has been dealing with problems such as homeless tents, drug use, gun violence, and brazen robberies. California Governor Gavin Newsom sent California Highway Patrol officers to help address the rise in crime. Lee’s opponent, Loren Taylor, focused on bolstering the police force and revitalizing the city’s economy.
Lee’s priorities as mayor include increasing community services, economic development, job creation, and ensuring core city services are functioning properly. She will complete the remainder of former Mayor Sheng Thao’s term and will be up for reelection in November 2026.
Lee has been a prominent figure in politics since being elected to the U.S. House in 1998 and gained national attention for being the only lawmaker to vote against the authorization for the use of military force in response to the September 11 attacks. Despite a heated race, Lee emerged victorious in the mayoral election and is poised to lead Oakland in addressing its challenges and unifying its residents.
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