Barbara Lee took the oath of office Tuesday as Oakland’s 52nd mayor, making history as the first Black woman to lead the city. The energetic former congresswoman was sworn in at Oakland City Hall before an overflowing crowd of supporters, placing her hand on her grandfather’s bible during the ceremony.
“My job is to lead our city out of a budget crisis,” Lee declared in her first remarks as mayor, acknowledging the significant challenges ahead for Oakland.
Historic Leadership Arrives Amid Budget Crisis
Lee enters office at a critical moment with Oakland facing a staggering $265 million deficit. The newly sworn-in mayor must quickly tackle financial challenges that threaten core city services.
“Oaklanders expect and demand that we must govern in a new way,” said Lee, addressing the crowd. “You were clear about the need to transform Oakland into a safe and cleaner city.” The former congresswoman called homelessness a “moral disgrace” and promised to focus on attracting investment while supporting local businesses and artists.
After taking the oath, Lee connected her family’s history to Oakland’s “spirited resilience.” She shared that her grandfather was born in Galveston, Texas, just two years after the announcement that slavery had ended, an event now commemorated by Juneteenth.
New City Leadership Takes Shape
Lee’s inauguration marks the end of a turbulent period in Oakland politics. Former Mayor Sheng Thao was recalled in November, creating an opening for new leadership.
Kevin Jenkins, who served as interim mayor since the recall, will now return to his regular position representing District 6 on the council. Additionally, he will step into the council presidency role.
The ceremony also included the swearing-in of District 2’s new councilmember, Charlene Wang. “Our team is complete,” Wang remarked after taking her oath of office. The 34-year-old won her seat handily in April after an unsuccessful run for the at-large council seat last November.
Budget Solutions Needed Immediately
Jenkins recently proposed a two-year budget plan aimed at closing Oakland’s massive deficit. Lee reportedly provided input during the development of this proposal.
The plan increases public safety investments while largely maintaining essential city services. However, it also cuts 400 jobs, most currently vacant, and relies on voters approving a future parcel tax.
Wang, in her new role as councilmember, must now help decide whether to approve Jenkins’ budget plan or amend it before the June 30 deadline. “We are stepping into office at an extraordinary moment,” Wang said in her speech. “Oakland doesn’t fold under pressure. We are going to be scrappy, we’re creative, we’re resilient.”
Family History Shapes Mayor’s Vision
Lee drew powerful parallels between her family’s experiences and her approach to governing Oakland. She spoke about her father, an army officer who faced discrimination when trying to buy a home in San Leandro because he was Black.
These personal experiences have shaped Lee’s political career and her commitment to addressing inequality in Oakland. She emphasized that her leadership style is inspired by her relatives’ perseverance and determination.
The swearing-in ceremony, while open to the public and streamed online, was not an official city meeting. Members of the press were allowed to attend but were told to stand against a wall rather than take available seats in the council chamber.
Transition Period Brings More Changes
More changes are expected at City Hall following Lee’s inauguration. The city recently announced the resignation of its top finance official, adding another transition during this critical budget period.
As mayor, Lee has the authority to replace the city administrator and bring new staff into the mayor’s office. These potential appointments could further reshape Oakland’s leadership team.
Wang has already announced plans to host a budget forum for residents of her district on May 28. The new councilmember brings government experience to her role, having worked in various city, state, and federal positions focused on homelessness, transportation, and climate issues.
