Oakland mayor’s spokesman resigns after recall campaign qualifies for ballot and FBI raid: report

Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao is facing a challenging time as a recall campaign to remove her from office has qualified for the November ballot. The turmoil deepened as the FBI raided her home less than 24 hours after the recall news broke. In addition, on Monday, her attorney unexpectedly quit, and on Tuesday, her chief spokesperson also resigned.

Francis Zamora informed KTVU about his resignation as chief of communications on Tuesday. In an email to the station, Zamora expressed his gratitude towards his colleagues for their professionalism and dedication. He stated, “It was an honor to serve the City of Oakland beside them.”

Zamora’s departure led to Pati Navalta being appointed as the interim communications director until Mayor Thao can find a permanent replacement.

The chief spokesperson’s resignation followed Mayor Thao’s press conference where she addressed the recall campaign and the FBI raid. Despite the mounting pressure, Thao remained defiant, asserting her innocence and stating, “I want to be crystal clear. I have done nothing wrong. This investigation is not about me. I have not been charged with a crime, and I am confident I will not be charged because I am innocent.”

However, the same day, her attorney, Tony Brass, resigned due to the lack of prior information about the press conference held by the mayor.

Last Thursday, FBI agents were seen carrying boxes out of Thao’s residence, which she shares with her son and partner. The investigation included searches of two other properties owned by a different family.

The raid occurred after supporters of the mayoral recall were informed by the city clerk that they had gathered enough signatures to qualify for the ballot, likely scheduled for November. These supporters argue that under the leadership of the politically progressive mayor, public safety and economic progress have declined, especially after the dismissal of Police Chief LeRonne Armstrong.

As the situation unfolds, tensions rise in Oakland, with the future of Mayor Sheng Thao’s political career hanging in the balance amidst a series of setbacks and challenges.