Barbara Lee has done it again—this time, not in Washington D.C., but right back home in Oakland.
The longtime Congresswoman and progressive legend has officially won the Oakland mayor’s race, stepping into city leadership at a moment of political upheaval, economic strain, and deep community division. The victory marks both a historic return and a bold new chapter for Lee, whose decades of public service have made her one of the most principled and resilient figures in American politics.
A Win for Unity
“Oakland is a deeply divided City,” Lee said in her victory statement. “I answered the call to run to unite our community, so that I can represent every voter, and we can all work together as One Oakland to solve our most pressing problems.”
Lee’s call for unity struck a chord with voters in a city still reeling from political controversy. The special election was held after the recall of former Mayor Sheng Thao, who faced mounting public criticism, a federal bribery investigation, and eventual indictment. Lee stepped into the race as a stabilizing force—bringing name recognition, community trust, and a track record of fighting for the people.
The Road to Victory
Though she entered the race as a clear front-runner with sweeping endorsements from labor unions, business leaders, and former mayors, the race tightened in the final stretch. Her principal opponent, Loren Taylor, a moderate and former city council member, framed himself as an outsider ready to clean house. Backed by wealthy donors who had also supported the mayoral recall, Taylor focused on public frustration around homelessness and crime.
But in the end, Lee’s deep ties to Oakland—and the support of grassroots organizers—won out. Her victory was powered by a familiar coalition: progressive voters, union workers, and longtime residents who believed in her message of hope, safety, and shared accountability.
Why Barbara Lee Matters
Barbara Lee’s story is one of courage and consistency. Born in El Paso, Texas, and raised in California, Lee became a single mother in her early twenties before attending Mills College in Oakland and later earning a Master’s in Social Work. She entered politics as a staffer to then-Congressman Ron Dellums, eventually winning a seat in the California State Assembly, and later, Congress.
In 2001, Lee cast the lone vote in Congress against the Authorization for Use of Military Force after 9/11—a moment that defined her moral clarity and unwillingness to back down, even when alone. Over her 25 years in Congress, she became known as a fierce advocate for racial justice, economic equity, reproductive rights, and ending endless war.
She didn’t just show up—she showed out.
And now, she’s come full circle to lead the city she has always fought for.
What Comes Next
Oakland won’t be an easy city to govern. The incoming mayor faces a budget crisis, rising housing instability, and ongoing concerns about public safety. But Barbara Lee isn’t new to a tough fight. Her experience navigating national politics, securing federal resources, and mobilizing local coalitions uniquely positions her to guide Oakland through its next chapter.
Rep. Lateefah Simon, Lee’s protégé and successor in Congress, put it best:
“At the end of the day, we’re Democrats… Sure, our cities are facing extreme challenges, but we all want the same things: safe streets, good schools, health care that works.”
Final Word
Barbara Lee’s victory is more than a win for Oakland—it’s a reminder that principled leadership still resonates. That legacy matters. And that progressive governance, rooted in real community, still has a powerful role to play in our country’s most urgent local fights.
One Oakland. One leader. And a future worth fighting for.
1 comment
Awesome