The Bay

Dan Brekke, an editor and reporter for KQED, dives into the looming crisis facing San Francisco's Muni system. He discusses the staggering $300 million budget deficit that could lead to significant cuts, including the suspension of iconic cable cars. Brekke emphasizes the impact on marginalized communities reliant on public transport, outlining the challenges of overcrowding and decreased revenue. He highlights the need for voter-approved solutions and federal support, stressing that the future of Bay Area transit hangs in the balance.

Joseph Geha, KQED’s South Bay reporter, provides insight into the shocking case of Omar Torres, a San José councilmember facing felony charges for child sexual misconduct. They discuss the whirlwind of allegations that led to Torres' resignation amid public outcry. Geha highlights the turmoil in local politics and how the community is grappling with the impacts of this scandal. Concerned residents voice their fears over representation in District 3 during a critical time, raising questions about trust in local governance moving forward.

Oakland has voted overwhelmingly to recall Mayor Sheng Thao, now the first sitting mayor to be recalled in city history. The Oaklandside’s Eli Wolfe explains how the recall campaign won, and the uncertain future ahead.Links:Who is running for Oakland mayor after Sheng Thao's recall? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

California's Attorney General Rob Bonta discusses preparing for renewed legal battles against the Trump administration. With a solid history as a state assemblyman, he emphasizes the state’s proactive measures in areas like environmental protection and civil rights. He shares strategies to defend reproductive rights amid potential national threats and highlights California's commitment to climate action. Bonta also tackles the challenges posed by misinformation in immigration policy and the implications for LGBTQ+ rights in the face of federal interventions.

Daniel Lurie, a nonprofit founder and Levi Strauss heir, has emerged as San Francisco's new mayor, appealing to voters eager for change. His outsider status and promise to address corruption set a bold tone for a city longing to break from old political traditions. The discussion dives into his campaign strategies, focusing on vital issues like public safety and homelessness. As Lurie prepares for his term, optimism rises amid challenges such as budget deficits and a public health crisis.

In the wake of Donald Trump’s victory over Kamala Harris, most Bay Area voters have reacted with a mix of shock, sadness, and disappointment. Meanwhile, California's leaders have vowed to fight back during Trump’s second term. Today, we hear from voters, community advocates, and elected officials. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The last day to vote in the 2024 election has come and gone. We know some California results, like Adam Schiff winning the race for U.S. Senate and Proposition 36 passing. But many votes still need to be counted.Today, we hear from voters, and then take you inside the KQED newsroom on Tuesday night. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thousands of people locked up in California jails are eligible to vote, but by Tuesday, most won’t. CalMatters politics reporter Sameea Kamal explains why it's hard to vote from the inside of county jails.Links:KQED voter guide Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Santa Clara County is about to elect its first ever Vietnamese American to the Board of Supervisors. In District 2, which includes downtown San Jose and the east side, Madison Nguyen and Betty Duong are vying for a seat that is open for the first time in over a decade. Whoever wins will play a major role in overseeing how the county spends money on issues like health care, housing, and human services.Links: Prop Fest KQED’s Voter Guide Apply to be our intern Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this edition of The Bay’s monthly news roundup, we check in on how we're feeling before the election and get a status update on the San Francisco mayoral race. Then, we dive into the ongoing hotel worker strike in San Francisco and discuss why the oil industry is getting involved in a local election in a city with no refineries. Links: KQED Voter Guide Prop Fest 2024 Oil Industry Spends Thousands on Local Bay Area Election in City With No Refineries New Polls in San Francisco Mayor’s Race Show Peskin and Lurie Surging SF Hotel Worker Strike Enters 6th Week, No Deal in Sight Apply to be our intern Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices