Mayor-elect Daniel Lurie promises “Change is coming to San Francisco” in exclusive interview with KRON4

SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) -- San Francisco is poised for a major shift as newly elected Mayor Daniel Lurie soon takes office. Following a contentious election season marked by debates over public safety, homelessness, and the challenges facing the city’s downtown, voters chose Lurie, a nonprofit executive and Levi Strauss heir, as the face of change.

In an exclusive sit-down with KRON4’s Stephanie Lin, the mayor-elect shared his vision for revitalizing San Francisco and tackling its most pressing issues.

Reflecting on his campaign, Lurie acknowledged the hard-fought race and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve.

“Well, listen, we ran a campaign. It was a tough-fought campaign against some really great opponents and people that have committed their lives to San Francisco,” Lurie said. “But I am already thinking about how we can change this city and make sure we get results. Change is coming to San Francisco.”

Lurie emphasized that his administration will focus on three pillars: accountability, service, and change. “This city needs to be shaken up, and hope is alive and well in San Francisco,” he added.

Even before officially taking office on January 8, Lurie has already made an impact. He played a key role in ending the Marriott hotel workers’ strike, which lasted 89 days.

“I’m so grateful to both sides coming together,” Lurie said. “They worked on this for five days, non-stop negotiations… Now, we can focus on 2025 and events like the JPMorgan Healthcare Conference and the NBA All-Star Game, while hotel workers can finally be home for the holidays.”

Lurie has pledged to prioritize public safety and address the city’s drug crisis, promising swift action upon taking office.

“I walked 6th Street with SFPD last weekend. We cannot have open-air drug markets and drug use happening in our streets,” he said. “We have to get people off the streets and into mental health and drug treatment beds. Starting on day one, we’re declaring a fentanyl state of emergency.”

He also stressed the need to streamline government bureaucracy to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent effectively.

Lurie’s transition team reflects his commitment to diversity and expertise, including notable names such as Mission Asset Fund CEO José A. Quiñonez and former SFPD Commander Paul Yep.

“We want to build an administration rooted in accountability and diversity,” Lurie said. “I’ve been sitting down with department heads and candidates for key positions, ensuring we have a team that shares our vision for change.”

With the holiday season in full swing, Lurie assured residents and visitors that the city is safe and ready to welcome them.

“SFPD is doing an incredible job downtown,” he said. “I was in Union Square on Black Friday, and it was packed. The skating rink was full. When we’re at our best, this is the greatest city in the world.”

When asked about his future political aspirations, Lurie reiterated his commitment to San Francisco.

“I’m a lifelong San Franciscan. I love this city. I have no interest in going to Sacramento or D.C.,” he said. “You’ll never see a mayor work more tirelessly than me. We’ve got work to do, and we’re going to get it done.”