Overview

• Four candidates for Oakland's next police chief introduced themselves at a public forum, despite Mayor Sheng Thao's criticism of the selection process.
• Candidates discussed their visions for policing in Oakland, emphasizing community engagement, accountability, and reform.
• Mayor Thao's absence from the forum and her concerns about the process have sparked debate over the best approach to selecting the new chief.
• The candidates, each with their own professional backgrounds and challenges, shared plans to address crime, police culture, and community relations.
• The Police Commission will present its finalists to Mayor Thao, who has previously rejected a slate of candidates, highlighting the political complexities of the appointment.