FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

San Francisco, CA – August 21, 2024 – The San Francisco Deputy Sheriffs’ Association (SFDSA) has announced its ranked-choice endorsements for the upcoming mayoral election, underscoring a commitment to public safety and effective law enforcement. The SFDSA’s endorsements are as follows:

1. Mark Farrell
2. Ahsha Safai
3. Daniel Lurie

This endorsement reflects the candidates’ strong positions on public safety and their commitment to addressing the critical issues facing San Francisco.

Denouncement of Mayor London Breed

The SFDSA also formally denounces current Mayor London Breed. The association’s decision stems from her actions that have significantly impacted law enforcement in San Francisco. These include:

• Defunding Police and Sheriffs: Breed’s budget decisions have reduced critical resources for both police and sheriffs, undermining public safety.
• Reduction in Law Enforcement: Her policies have led to a reduction in the number of active law enforcement officers, impacting response times and community safety.
• Civilianizing Law Enforcement Positions: The mayor’s initiative to replace traditional law enforcement roles with civilian positions has diluted the effectiveness of public safety operations.
• Failure to Prioritize Recruitment: There has been a notable lack of urgency in recruiting new officers, which has exacerbated staffing shortages.
• Lack of Immediate Action: The mayor’s delay in implementing urgent safety measures has left the city vulnerable and less secure.
• Political Manipulation: The SFDSA criticizes Breed for using the political process to effect public safety changes through votes rather than immediate actions, which they believe is an attempt to gain voter support for her re-election campaign.
• Neglect of SF Jails: The current administration has failed to address critical issues in the San Francisco jails, resulting in dangerously unsafe conditions. The jails are plagued by major safety issues, including dilapidated conditions, insecure and dangerous second-level areas without fall protection, and a lack of recreational facilities under sunlight to promote better health. Despite these severe issues, Mayor Breed has done nothing to rectify these problems, leaving the facilities in a state of disrepair and jeopardizing the safety and well-being of both inmates and staff.

Endorsement Process

The SFDSA’s endorsement process is rigorous and transparent. The Political Action Committee (PAC) conducts thorough research on candidates, assessing their positions and potential impact on public safety. The PAC then makes recommendations to the board, which is responsible for further review.

A noticed meeting is held with both members and board members to discuss the endorsements. During the meeting, a motion is made to endorse a candidate or candidates. The board votes, and if the majority supports the motion, the endorsement is ratified. If not, no endorsement is made.

Ken Lomba, President of the SFDSA, emphasized the importance of this process: “Our endorsements are based on a comprehensive evaluation of each candidate’s stance on public safety and their plans for improving San Francisco. We believe #1 Mark Farrell, #2 Ahsha Safai, and #3 Daniel Lurie are the best choices to address the pressing issues our city faces. We also feel it is crucial to hold accountable those who have failed to act effectively in safeguarding our community.”

For more information, please contact:

Ken Lomba
President, San Francisco Deputy Sheriffs’ Association
415-696-2428

About the San Francisco Deputy Sheriffs’ Association (SFDSA):
The SFDSA represents the dedicated men and women of the San Francisco Sheriff’s Office. We advocate for fair and equitable treatment of our members and work towards ensuring the safety and well-being of San Francisco’s diverse communities.

“Paid for by the San Francisco Deputy Sheriffs’ Association PAC. Not authorized by a candidate or committee controlled by a candidate. Financial disclosures are available at sfethics.org.”