As the November 5 election approaches in just two weeks, San Francisco District 3 city council candidates Sharon Lai and Moe Jamil announced their mutual endorsement on October 20, aiming to amplify their influence in the upcoming race.

This endorsement reflects a collaborative strategy, as both candidates seek to attract more voters and maximize their potential under the ranked choice voting system. They share a common focus on affordable housing, public safety reform, and community infrastructure improvement, highlighting their aligned policy positions.

During their speeches, both candidates emphasized their shared values and commitment to serving the community. Lai remarked that their partnership is rooted in a mutual dedication to increasing affordable housing, enhancing community safety, and ensuring that city services are more effective for residents. She acknowledged that while they may have different takes on certain issues, they are unified in the core goal of making District 3 a more inclusive and livable community.

Jamil stated that collaborating with Lai is a strategic aspect of their campaign, noting that their mutual support can draw more attention from voters. He highlighted that under ranked choice voting, their alliance could significantly boost both their chances of success. Jamil pointed out that many of Lai’s policy proposals align closely with his own, making their partnership practical and meaningful.

Current city council president and mayoral candidate Aaron Peskin also showed his support at the event, expressing that Lai and Jamil’s policy priorities resonate strongly with his years of experience in city governance. He praised their commitment to expanding affordable housing and enhancing public safety—issues he has long championed in the council. Peskin believes both candidates are well-equipped to continue his work in District 3 and bring about positive change for San Francisco’s future.

Supporters have noted that Peskin’s endorsement adds significant credibility and political weight to this alliance, further solidifying their standing in the election.

Political analysts have indicated that such endorsements can yield considerable advantages in ranked choice elections. In this system, where voters can rank multiple candidates, Lai and Jamil can support each other and prevent votes from being diluted. Analysts suggest that this strategy could allow them to maximize their respective voter bases.

Resident Zhou Chenxin believes this alliance signals that both candidates are willing to collaborate for the greater good of the community, which could appeal to voters dissatisfied with the current administration and seeking substantial change.