San Francisco election turnout remains 'abysmally low' despite high-stakes races
By
Han Li
A weekday bagel. Dependable, satisfying, no fuss.
Summary
San Francisco's recent election saw abysmally low turnout despite being described as a "once-in-a-generation" election. The crowded and uninspiring governor's primary failed to generate excitement, and even the high-profile race to succeed Nancy Pelosi did little to motivate voters. Incumbent supervisors Stephen Sherill and Alan Wong won easily, highlighting the persistent advantage of incumbency in local politics.
Key quotes
· 3 pulledWhat has remained a constant is a bias toward incumbency, where strong political organizing infrastructure and name recognition hold particular weight.
The headlining race typically drives turnout — the way Charli XCX sells Outside Lands tickets.
The crowded governor's race left many uninspired and even the race to succeed Nancy Pelosi was little motivation to go to the polls.
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