San Francisco Enforces Stricter Rules for Candidates Using Chinese Names on Ballots

The move aims to prevent cultural appropriation and misuse of Chinese names in elections, requiring proof of established use for at least two years.

San Francisco is enforcing stricter guidelines for candidates choosing Chinese names to appear on ballots, requiring proof of established use for at least two years.
Previously, candidates, including non-Chinese ones, strategically selected Chinese names to appeal to the city's significant Chinese population.
The move follows instances of candidates choosing names similar to their opponents or names that convey certain personality traits, seemingly to bolster their image.
San Francisco Supervisor Connie Chan urged the implementation of a 2019 state law to prevent cultural appropriation and misuse of Chinese names.
Many established local public figures will be grandfathered in, as they already meet the two-year threshold.