The recent large-scale protest, dubbed the “No Kings” demonstration, has put a strain on law enforcement resources throughout the Bay Area, which is particularly concerning given San Francisco’s looming budget deficit nearing $800 million.
In the midst of this turmoil, Mayor Lurie faces the crucial task of selecting a new police chief, a decision that typically carries significant weight and complexity.
Historical precedents provide context for Lurie’s challenge. In 1988, newly elected Mayor Art Agnos grappled with a similar situation. In September of that year, Dolores Huerta, a prominent leader of the United Farm Workers and an ally of Agnos, was injured during a protest outside the St. Francis Hotel where Vice President George H. W. Bush was speaking.
The incident raised questions about the SFPD’s crowd control tactics, especially after Huerta suffered severe injuries from being struck by a baton. Agnos reacted strongly, insisting that there be a review of the police department’s crowd control policies to ensure compliance with authorized tactics.
Despite his efforts to address the situation, Agnos soon found himself at odds with then-police chief Frank Jordan, who maintained that the officers acted within policy guidelines. Agnos’ decision to retain Jordan, even amidst tensions with his predecessor Dianne Feinstein, had long-lasting implications for his administration.
Following significant challenges, including concerns over homelessness and crime, Jordan resigned and later ran against Agnos in the 1991 mayoral election, ultimately defeating him.
In the search for the next police chief, political dynamics play a pivotal role. Max Carter-Oberstone, a progressive attorney who was recently removed from the Police Commission, highlights that the new chief will need to navigate multiple stakeholder interests, including the mayor, police commission, police union, and diverse community groups.
Understanding local politics is essential, as noted by former SFPD chief George Gascón. He emphasizes that without a firm grasp of political nuances, a police chief may struggle to effectively lead.
Although rank-and-file officers frequently have reservations about external candidates, Gascón acknowledges the potential for an outsider to bring fresh perspectives, albeit with the risk of missing internal dynamics.
In 2017, Chief Scott, who had previously served in the Los Angeles Police Department, managed to break this mold, proving capable of operating successfully within the city’s complex political landscape.
For Tracy McCray, president of the San Francisco Police Officers Association, the unique pressures of the chief’s role underscore the need for adaptability. Drawing from her extensive experience in the department, McCray notes that balance is essential in keeping various factions satisfied within a politically charged environment.
The SFPD faces a critical moment, marked by officer shortages and upcoming retirements, making the choice of a new chief particularly significant.
Jack Glaser from the UC Berkeley Goldman School of Public Policy stresses the importance of composure and effective management during potential future protests. He warns that the political climate could lead to escalating civil unrest, necessitating a chief who can promote calm and effective communication with demonstrators.
As Lurie acknowledges Scott’s contributions upon announcing his departure, crime rates in San Francisco remain relatively low, providing a backdrop against which the next chief will be judged.
The Board of Supervisors is expected to review nominees for the Police Commission, an essential step toward selecting Scott’s successor.
The new chief’s performance will be closely scrutinized, and any failure could have political ramifications for Lurie, reflecting the broader implications of leadership and governance during challenging times.
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