Oakland’s Political Turbulence: Chief of Staff Terminated Over Note Scandal

Envelope with YOU'RE FIRED! and pointing finger.

Oakland’s political scene is embroiled in chaos after Mayor Sheng Thao’s recall election and shocking bribery accusations.

Key Takeaways

Former Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao was recalled and removed from office in November 2024.
Thao faces federal corruption charges for allegedly exchanging city contracts for bribes.
A note by Leigh Hanson led to significant political fallout and her dismissal.
Interim Mayor Kevin Jenkins appointed Deputy Mayor Burt Jones as chief of staff.
The political climate in Oakland has been tainted by allegations and racial tensions.

Turmoil in Oakland’s Political Landscape

Oakland’s political turbulence hit a peak following the recall of former Mayor Sheng Thao. She faces serious federal charges related to corruption and misconduct involving bribery. The unsettling development has left the city’s administration reeling as residents grapple with diminished trust in their elected officials, further strained by racial tensions stemming from a controversial incident involving now-terminated chief of staff Leigh Hanson. These events have highlighted the challenges facing Oakland’s governance.

Thao’s indictment includes damning allegations of promising official actions in exchange for benefits from local businessmen. She allegedly misrepresented public service priorities, engaging in pay-to-play schemes that deeply betrayed public trust, evident by the overwhelming recall vote by nearly 60% of Oakland voters. As reported, former Rep. Barbara Lee is among those running to replace Thao, reflecting the persistent desire for change and integrity in leadership.

Racial Tensions and Personnel Changes

Further complicating Oakland’s political crisis was the fallout over a racially insensitive handwritten note by Leigh Hanson. Upon the discovery of the note, public outrage ensued, culminating in Hanson’s removal. Hanson, maintaining she was misunderstood, claimed the note was part of a conversation on recruitment strategies. Regardless, the damaging episode prompted action from Interim Mayor Jenkins, who promptly rearranged city personnel, placing Deputy Mayor Burt Jones in charge.

“Effective Sunday, Leigh Hanson is no longer an employee of the City of Oakland. I thank Ms. Hanson for her service. Deputy Mayor Burt Jones will be serving as the Mayor’s Office chief of staff until further notice, and I thank him for stepping up to the role,” announced Jenkins.

Dear Oakland Voters, Do not start to rejoice over Leigh Hanson being fired just yet. We need to demand that she does NOT receive any pension benefits and that she gets denied unemployment. Leigh Hanson is NOT sorry. She has shown us who she is. Believe her. She didn't apologize.… pic.twitter.com/SxVo2bnte4

— IamKeishaKeisha (@IamKeishaKeisha) April 7, 2025

Hanson’s departure and subsequent public apology marked a critical attempt to ease racial unrest, yet it underscores systemic issues lingering within the city’s landscape. Reactions to the note have varied, with discussions about underlying racial dynamics and the need for broader inclusive representation gaining attention in civic dialogues.

Rebuilding Trust and Governance

In the wake of these controversies, the appointed leadership under Jenkins aims to stabilize city operations, restore normalcy, and regain public trust. With Burt Jones now in a pivotal role, efforts to maintain effective governance while managing diverse community needs stand as top priorities. Central to this mission is ensuring accountability and transparency for Oakland’s citizens amid unresolved allegations against former Mayor Thao.

“The public deserves honesty and transparency from City Hall. When elected officials agree to a pay-to-play system to benefit themselves rather than work for the best interests of their constituents, that breaches the public trust. This indictment reaffirms the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s commitment to root out, investigate, and prosecute corruption in our local governments,” stated First Assistant United States Attorney Patrick D. Robbins.

As investigations continue and special elections approach, the city’s future remains uncertain but resolute in its pursuit of reform. Undoubtedly, Oakland’s political dynamics have reached a critical juncture where inclusive governance and ethical leadership are not just desired but essential for progress.