Chesa Boudin Claims Victory In SF District Attorney Race

SAN FRANCISCO, CA — Chesa Boudin declared victory Saturday in the San Francisco district attorney's race, and recently appointed incumbent Suzy Loftus issued a concession announcement in a razor-thin election result.

In rank-choice voting, Boudin finished with 85,950 votes, for 50.72 percent, edging out Loftus's 83,511 votes (49.28 percent).

"The people of San Francisco have sent a powerful and clear message: It's time for radical change to how we envision justice," Boudin said on social media Saturday afternoon. "I'm humbled to be a part of this movement that is unwavering in it's demand for transformation."

Loftus was appointed Oct. 4 by Mayor London Breed to fill the spot vacated by George Gascon, who resigned to move to Los Angeles and explore a run for district attorney there.

Loftus sent out the following statement Saturday: "I didn't win the race - but we won the support of so many San Franciscans who are demanding that our city work more effectively together to
build safety. Congratulations to Chesa Boudin. I will work to ensure a smooth and immediate transition."

At a rally Nov. 4, the day before the election, San Francisco Supervisors Hillary Ronen, Sandra Lee Fewer and Matt Haney joined Police Commissioner Cindy Elias in accusing the San Francisco Police Officers Association of paying as much as $650,000 on ads attacking Boudin.

The ads alleged that Boudin won't prosecute DUI offenders and won't seek additional penalties for gang members who have committed violent crimes like rape and murder.

San Francisco Police Officers Association President Tony Montoya stood by the ads, calling them the association's efforts to educate voters on Boudin's "dangerous position" in the race. — Bay City News