Sat Jan 18 12:40:00 UTC 2025: **Oakland Mayor’s Recall Rocked by Bribery Indictment; Challenger Claims Election Stolen**
OAKLAND, CA – Recalled Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao and three others face federal charges alleging bribery in connection with a negative campaign mailer targeting Thao’s 2022 mayoral opponent, Loren Taylor. The indictment details how approximately $75,000, allegedly provided by Andy and David Duong of California Waste Solutions, funded a mailer attacking Taylor just days before the election. This mailer, described as featuring a darkened image of Taylor and “outrageous allegations,” is alleged to have swayed the outcome of the election, which Thao won by a narrow margin of 677 votes.
Taylor, who led in initial poll counts by over 3,500 votes, claims the mailer cost him the election. He expressed outrage at the alleged corruption, stating that “democracy has been trampled on.” His chief of staff echoed his sentiments, highlighting the mailer’s unfair and disappointing tactics.
The indictment alleges the Duongs provided the funds in exchange for future political favors, contracts, and appointments. A key witness, Thao’s former chief of staff Renia Webb, reported seeing real estate agent and political activist Mario Juarez request additional funds for the mailer from Thao and Andy Duong at a campaign event. While Juarez is not currently charged, his lawyer declined to comment on his potential involvement.
Thao faces up to 95 years in prison on charges including bribery, conspiracy, mail, and wire fraud. Andy Duong also faces similar charges. The case raises serious questions about the integrity of the 2022 Oakland mayoral election and highlights the ongoing investigation into political corruption within the city. Taylor, now a candidate in the upcoming special election, vows to ensure a more level playing field this time. Other prominent candidates in the race include former Congresswoman Barbara Lee and Thao’s former chief of staff, Renia Webb.
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