A Historic Moment for Oakland
Barbara Lee was sworn in as Oakland’s 52nd mayor on Tuesday, becoming the first Black woman to lead the city. An energetic crowd packed City Hall, cheering as she took the oath of office over her grandfather’s Bible.
“Oaklanders expect and demand that we must govern in a new way,” Lee said in her speech. She promised to tackle the city’s budget crisis, improve public safety, and address homelessness, calling it a “moral disgrace.”
A Legacy of Resilience
Lee’s family history reflects Oakland’s fighting spirit. Her grandfather was born in Texas just two years after slavery ended. Decades later, her father, an Army officer, was denied a home in San Leandro due to racism.
“We are going to be scrappy, we’re creative, we’re resilient,” Lee told supporters. She vowed to bring that same determination to City Hall, focusing on economic growth and support for small businesses and artists.
A City in Transition
The swearing-in marks the end of a turbulent period for Oakland. Former Mayor Sheng Thao was recalled in November, leaving the position open. Interim Mayor Kevin Jenkins will now return to his District 6 council seat.
Meanwhile, Charlene Wang was sworn in as the new District 2 councilmember. “Our team is complete,” Wang said after taking office. She won her seat in a special election following Nikki Fortunato Bas’s move to the Board of Supervisors.
Facing a $265 Million Budget Crisis
Lee and Wang have no time to ease into their roles. Oakland faces a massive $265 million budget shortfall. Jenkins has proposed a plan that cuts 400 jobs—mostly vacant—while boosting public safety funding.
Wang will help finalize the budget by June 30. She’s hosting a district forum on May 28 to hear residents’ concerns. “Oakland doesn’t fold under pressure,” she said. “We are stepping into office at an extraordinary moment.”
New Leadership, New Challenges
Wang, 34, is a first-time officeholder but brings experience from city, state, and federal roles. Her campaign focused on public safety, homelessness, and climate issues.
With Lee now in charge, more changes could come. The city’s top finance official recently resigned, and Lee may appoint a new city administrator. Oakland’s future hinges on how its new leaders navigate these tough times.
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