Michael Moritz: A Philanthropist’s Journey Through San Francisco Politics
Michael Moritz celebrated his 70th birthday on September 12, a milestone he once doubted he would reach due to health concerns. The occasion was marked with a private gathering at Davies Symphony Hall, featuring a performance by famed musician Jon Batiste. An eclectic guest list highlighted Moritz’s complex web of social connections, including political figures from both progressive and conservative spectrums.
A Complex Social Fabric
The birthday event showcased the diverse range of individuals that Moritz engages with in his philanthropic and political endeavors. Among the attendees were Chesa Boudin, a former progressive District Attorney who faced scrutiny during his tenure, and Mark Farrell, a law-and-order candidate for mayor whom Moritz has supported financially.
Despite his retreat from daily operations at his venture capital firm over a decade ago, Moritz remains a significant figure in San Francisco’s political landscape. Since 2016, he has invested more than $4 million into political campaigns while also contributing significantly to various charitable causes. “I had a prognosis I’d be dead by 70,” he noted, reflecting on his unexpected longevity and the proactive measures he has taken regarding his health since being diagnosed with a serious condition in 2012.
Driving Change in San Francisco
Moritz’s ambitions extend beyond philanthropy. He founded the San Francisco Standard in 2021 due to frustrations with the local media, and launched TogetherSF in 2020, a political pressure group aiming to reshape city governance. His endeavors include ambitious real estate projects and attempts to develop a new city in Solano County.
“I am as impatient as the next person,” he stated, emphasizing his desire for “real, discernible change” in San Francisco, which he believes will take at least a decade to achieve. Moritz’s vision appears to advocate for a business-friendly environment and a reduction of citizen oversight in city governance, a stance that sparks debate among his peers and friends from various political backgrounds.
Among the Philanthropists
Established with his wife, Harriet Heyman, Crankstart is now the largest family foundation in San Francisco, boasting assets of approximately $3.8 billion. It has allocated over $361 million to local initiatives since 2020, including education and community development programs. Moritz’s philanthropic approach often involves significant, unsolicited contributions aimed at addressing local challenges quietly, aligning with his ethos of supporting the community without seeking recognition.
His commitment to social causes contrasts with the larger-than-life political persona he has cultivated through his public donations and op-eds critiquing San Francisco’s political climate. In these writings, he has openly expressed dissatisfaction with the city’s progressive leadership and called for an overhaul of the political system, claiming it has been “crippled by a small coterie” of entrenched interests.
Controversial Political Strategies
As Moritz continues to wield influence, his tactics have been met with skepticism. Critics argue that his push for Proposition D—a ballot measure designed to significantly alter the city charter—lacks adequate community engagement. This proposal aims to streamline city governance by halving the number of city commissions, a move seen by many as excessively abrupt and potentially damaging to essential oversight bodies.
Moritz himself acknowledges the unconventional nature of his approach, stating, “If you seek perfection, you’ll never do anything.” His critics, however, worry about the implications of such sweeping changes being implemented without a more inclusive process.
A Vision for the Future
As a self-identified catalyst for community agitation, Moritz aims to be an active part of San Francisco’s political evolution. His commitment to TogetherSF is expected to continue beyond the upcoming elections, with plans for sustained involvement over the next several years. “This is a multi-year, multi-election effort,” he has remarked, showcasing his dedication to reshaping the political landscape.
Born in Wales to German-Jewish refugees, Moritz’s journey from journalism to venture capitalism reflects both personal ambition and a keen understanding of opportunity. With a career marked by significant investments in technology giants like Google and Apple, his financial influence adds weight to his social initiatives.
In conclusion, Michael Moritz exemplifies a complex intersection of wealth, philanthropy, and political ambition in San Francisco. His ongoing endeavors showcase both his commitment to addressing pressing urban issues and the challenges that come with disruptive reform.
