Overview

• Barbara Lee was officially sworn in as Oakland's new mayor on May 20, 2025, at City Hall.
• Her election followed the recall of former Mayor Sheng Thao and a special ranked-choice election in April 2025.
• Oakland faces a $270 million budget deficit over the next two years, prompting plans for job cuts at City Hall.
• Lee is collaborating with interim Mayor Kevin Jenkins on a budget proposal prioritizing public safety funding.
• Public safety and governance reforms are central to Lee's agenda as Oakland addresses rising crime and political accountability issues.