Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the factors that determined why you decided to run for mayor of Sacramento?

There were several factors that I had to consider carefully. First, I had to ensure that St. HOPE was set up in such a way that it could continue to prosper. I now feel fully confident that we have the capacity and infrastructure necessary to be successful without my day-to-day involvement.

The second factor was more personal. Becoming a public official means being more visible and under more scrutiny. I knew it would mean a different lifestyle for my family and for me.

The most significant difference I had to think about, however, was what it would mean to move from operating on the outside of the political system - where I'd run my own organization with tremendous amount of freedom and autonomy - to working within the political system where I would no doubt be more constrained by the existing bureaucracy.

Ultimately, though, the decision I had to make was whether I could make a greater impact on the community within the political realm or outside of it. I decided that serving Sacramento as mayor and as a public servant is the greatest honor I could have.

2. Why are you qualified to lead the city of Sacramento?

I've been a public figure since the time I was in high school and have had to deal with many political situations and dynamics at every stage of my life. I have been successful at navigating my organization through challenging political dynamics, brokering deals that benefited the community work we were doing, and forging strategic partnerships with a broad range of constituent groups.

In leading St. HOPE for nearly two decades I've actually had a tremendous amount of political experience. For example, the fight for Sac High was an incredibly politically charged situation. There were many factions that felt very strongly about the future of the school including the school district, the teachers union, politicians, community groups and many families and students throughout the city. Trying to ensure that our vision for the school could be effectively communicated to the various constituents, given the different agendas, proved challenging. However, we successfully won control of the school through good strategy and relationship building and have transformed it in a way many thought was not possible.

Our economic development work in Oak Park has required significant political acumen as well. Development projects require coordination through various city agencies for zoning and permits, financiers, tenants, contractors and community members. To manage the coordination of these activities as well as the interests of each constituent group in the project takes mature negotiating skills, high-level project management experience, and effective communication.

3. What issues confronting Sacramento right now are of most concern to you and why?

I think it's clear from talking to people across the city that Sacramento needs change, and we need it now. We need a different kind of leadership and vision to bring that change about.

As Mayor, I will bring a clear vision for the city and its development. We need to attract businesses to the city and create jobs. We have to do so, however, in a responsible, measured way. It requires tremendous forethought and planning to strike the right balance between the growth and sustainability.

I also think it's critical to create a different culture in city hall. Right now, people see our city government as non-responsive, tired, uninspired, and bureaucratic. That's not good enough for Sacramento or its residents. Sacramento has to be a city that works for everyone.

That means creating a dynamic where residents feel engaged, invested and excited about what is happening in the city, where their voices are heard, and they have faith and confidence in the city government.

4. Where do you see the city of Sacramento in twenty years and why?

Twenty years from now, Sacramento will be a very different city. First, we will have a strong identity that sets us apart from other cities. We will no longer be simply the halfway point between San Francisco and Tahoe: Sacramento will be an exciting destination.

Sacramento will be a place where people will want to move to from elsewhere in California and throughout the nation. We will have a vibrant and booming downtown that is an attraction to Sacramentans and tourists alike. Additionally, we'll have "destination points" throughout the city that provide residents with exciting venues to visit and work in. The city will be attracting businesses that succeed in creating new jobs and opportunities for people.

Our neighborhoods will have tremendous charm and appeal. Our streets will be safe for everyone and our public schools will attract families from across the state. We'll be a world-class city that serves as a model for other urban jurisdictions with a vitality that makes all of its residents proud to call it home.