Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee faces a city with sky-high expectations.

Residents demand immediate solutions to crime, illegal dumping, homelessness, and a struggling local economy. They also want their new leader to make local government more transparent and accountable. And many hope to see the mayor unify a city that became deeply polarized during the 2024 recall elections.

Lee unveiled her political strategy right after the election. It was a 10-point plan for her first 100 days.

Lee’s list was light on metrics and milestones. Instead, it emphasized listening to local stakeholders, advocating for more resources, and stabilizing the city’s finances.

Her roadmap also didn’t account for all of the challenges that would emerge. Within weeks of Lee taking office, President Donald Trump de

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