Oakland finds itself gripped in political chaos following the recall of Mayor Sheng Thao and shocking allegations of bribery, thrusting the city’s leadership into disarray.
Key Takeaways
- Sheng Thao was ousted in a recall election amid allegations of corruption.
- Interim Mayor Kevin Jenkins has fired all remaining staff from Thao’s administration.
- A controversy erupted over racially offensive language used in notes by the former chief of staff.
- Renia Webb, a whistleblower in the scandal, is running for the mayoral seat.
- Key figures in the corruption allegations include Thao, her partner, and two businessmen.
Recall and Indictment of Sheng Thao
Oakland voters overwhelmingly decided to recall former Mayor Sheng Thao in a contentious election held in November 2024, with 60% favoring her removal. In the aftermath, Thao faces federal bribery charges, alongside her partner and associates. The charges allege a scheme involving straw donors and promises of political influence in exchange for personal benefits.
The campaign against Thao also allegedly included funding negative advertisements against her political rivals. Thao purportedly misused her position to appoint city officials aligned with her benefactors, the Duongs, further escalating the bribery scandal.
Administrative Fallout
Kevin Jenkins, serving as interim mayor, has made swift administrative changes, dismissing all remaining staff linked to Thao’s administration. This decision followed the resignation of Leigh Hanson, the chief of staff, due to backlash over a handwritten note that contained derogatory references to Black individuals as “tokens.”
“Effective Sunday, Leigh Hanson is no longer an employee of the City of Oakland. I thank Ms. Hanson for her service. Deputy Mayor Burt Jones will be serving as the Mayor’s Office chief of staff until further notice, and I thank him for stepping up to the role,” stated Jenkins in his public announcement.
Dear Oakland Voters, Do not start to rejoice over Leigh Hanson being fired just yet. We need to demand that she does NOT receive any pension benefits and that she gets denied unemployment. Leigh Hanson is NOT sorry. She has shown us who she is. Believe her. She didn't apologize.… pic.twitter.com/SxVo2bnte4
— IamKeishaKeisha (@IamKeishaKeisha) April 7, 2025
Election Outlook and Public Trust
The upcoming special election has drawn significant attention, with former chief of staff Renia Webb announcing her candidacy. Webb, acknowledged for whistleblowing on alleged pay-to-play schemes, signifies a shift toward transparency and accountability in a bid to restore public trust. Former Representative Barbara Lee also enters the race, promising a competitive and closely watched electoral battle.
Oakland’s present political climate emphasizes the importance of accountability and dedication to ethical governance amidst ongoing challenges. The legal proceedings and upcoming election might chart a new course for the city, seeking to redefine its leadership while addressing deep-rooted issues. This period is crucial for the citizens of Oakland as they await justice and the promise of reform.
Sources:
- Oakland mayor cleans house, fires all remaining staff from former Thao administration
- Former Oakland mayor, her longtime partner, two local businessmen charged with bribery offenses | Internal Revenue Service
- Oakland Mayor’s Chief of Staff No Longer Employed After Outcry Over Handwritten Note | The Epoch Times
