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NewsKQED NewsNovember 4, 2026San Francisco County

Lee Leads Oakland Mayor’s Race as ‘Strong Mayor’ Measure EE Gains Voter Support

Photo: KQED News

Incumbent Mayor Lee holds a strong lead in the Oakland mayor's race, while the ballot measure EE is leading with 74% of the vote in early returns to restructure the city government. Measure EE would amend the City Charter to make the mayor the chief executive with veto and personnel powers, while turning the City Council into a full-time position.

ElectionsLocal GovernmentCity Charter
Read the full story at KQED News

Why It Matters

The election and pending ballot measure shift executive authority in Oakland from a professional administrator model to a strong-mayor system, altering legislative vetoes, budget control, and council compensation.

Key Facts

  • Measure EE is leading in early returns with 74% of the vote.
  • Measure EE amends the City Charter to designate the mayor as the chief executive responsible for city departments and operations.
  • The mayor would gain veto power over legislation and budget line items, which the eight-member City Council could override with six votes.
  • The mayor would gain more control over hiring and firing department heads and other city personnel.
  • Measure EE converts the City Council into a full-time position with higher pay.
  • Oakland currently operates under a hybrid mayor-council system relying on a professional manager.
  • A recent Oakland Chamber of Commerce poll showed 46% of respondents saying the city is headed in the right direction, compared to 12% two years ago.
  • Candidate Brenda Grisham trailed with 4% of the vote.
  • Lee has served 18 months in office.

Who's Mentioned

PersonThao“Former mayor subject to a recall”otherLeague of Women Voters Oakland“Commented on governance structures”locationOakland“City holding the mayoral election and vote on Measure EE”OrganizationOakland Chamber of Commerce“Conducted a recent poll on city direction”locationCalifornia“State where the vast majority of cities rely on a professional manager”PersonLee“Incumbent mayor leading the Oakland mayor's race”PersonBrenda Grisham“Community organizer and candidate trailing in the mayoral race”PersonGail Wallace“Representative of the League of Women Voters Oakland”