A group of residents and business owners from the Oakland Chinatown held a press conference at Fortune Plaza on October 15 to express their opposition to the recall of Mayor Sheng Thao. Community representatives argued that initiating a recall just months after her election is undemocratic and could lead to instability in Oakland, potentially resulting in up to five different mayors within three years. They praised Mayor Thao’s strong leadership and noted that crime rates have decreased under her administration. Mayor Thao attended the event to highlight her achievements, such as job creation, and pointed out that the recall is being funded by a hedge fund manager who does not even live in Oakland.
Dozens of Chinatown residents held signs that read, “We won’t let the wealthy control recalls, citizens rise to fight back” and “Beware of recall motives that aim to seize power in chaos.” Some supporters of the recall also showed up, chanting slogans and engaging in heated arguments with pro-Thao attendees.
Dr. Stewart Chen, the chair of the OCIC, emphasized that it is unfair to initiate a recall merely two months into Mayor Thao’s term, arguing she hasn’t had sufficient time to demonstrate her governance and leadership abilities.
He further explained that if the recall passes in early November, the current City Council President, Nikki Fortunato Bas, would step in as interim mayor. Since she is also running for a seat on the Alameda County Board of Supervisors, if elected, she would be sworn in early January. The next City Council President would then assume the role of the interim mayor. Just four months later, Oakland would have a special election, resulting in a new mayor serving only a two-year term to complete Mayor Thao’s remaining tenure. By 2026, another mayoral election would take place, leading to potential instability with up to five mayors in less than three years.
Kenneth Tang, head of APEN Action, expressed strong opposition to the recall, stating it would lead to “political chaos.”
Leaders from the East Bay Taishan Association and the AAPA, Elaine Peng, acknowledged the improvements in public safety since Mayor Thao took office.
Despite facing scattered opposition, Mayor Thao remained unfazed and emphasized her accomplishments, seeking to rally support from the community.
