Following significant financial losses in the recent electoral cycle, two influential moderate political action committees (PACs), Neighbors for a Better San Francisco and TogetherSF, have decided to merge. The decision comes after nearly $10 million was spent in a bid to elect Mark Farrell and promote Proposition D, both of which did not succeed.

Background on the Political Landscape

The merger reduces the number of similarly funded groups in San Francisco’s political arena, which include organizations like GrowSF and Abundant SF. According to The Chronicle, the consolidation of Neighbors for a Better SF and TogetherSF into a single entity reflects both a strategic response to their recent failures and a desire to maintain influence in a shifting political environment.

Election Outcomes and Repercussions

Both groups suffered significant defeats during the November elections. Proposition D lost by a substantial margin of 13 percentage points, while Mark Farrell finished in fourth place. The campaigns’ failures were underscored by their use of imagery that likened wasting funds to flushing money down a toilet, highlighting the perceived mismanagement of campaign resources.

Controversies and Allegations

In addition to electoral failures, both organizations faced controversies that marred their reputations. TogetherSF’s standing diminished when San Francisco Mayor London Breed retracted participation in their debate, citing the group’s overt support for Farrell. Furthermore, allegations of illegal coordination with the Farrell campaign surfaced. On the other hand, Neighbors for a Better SF encountered a significant ethics fine during the elections, compounded by past sexual assault allegations against CEO Jay Cheng.

Leadership and Future Directions

Despite these challenges, the merged organization will continue under the Neighbors for a Better SF name, with Jay Cheng staying on as executive director. Cheng expressed optimism about the merger, stating, “It’s a new era in the city right now, and this merged, unified organization helps us be a catalyst for that important work we think is going to come in the coming years.”

Impact on Funding and Staff

This merger may also bring about staffing changes, as both organizations reassess their workforce in light of the recent electoral performance. Cheng indicated that support and severance would be provided for affected staff, while speculation suggests the entire TogetherSF team could face layoffs.

Aiming for Reconciliation with New Leadership

The announcement of the merger noted a desire to align with the new administration under Mayor Daniel Lurie, expressing intentions to foster cooperation with those now in power. Reports indicate the Lurie administration has frozen out Jay Cheng, stating, “We don’t owe them a goddamn thing,” emphasizing the challenges the merged group may face in re-establishing its influence with the current leadership.