Sheng Thao’s meteoric rise in Oakland politics ended in a shocking downfall. Elected as the city’s first Hmong American mayor in November 2022, Thao’s tenure was marred by controversy, ultimately leading to her recall on November 5, 2024, making her the first mayor in Oakland’s history to be recalled Here’s an overview of her journey and the key events that contributed to her downfall:
Her Rise to Power
Sheng Thao, born in 1985 to Hmong refugee parents, overcame significant personal challenges including poverty and homelessness to enter politics. According to NBC News her political career began with an internship for Oakland City Council member Rebecca Kaplan, which led to her running for and winning a seat on the Oakland City Council in 2018.
In November 2022, Thao narrowly won the mayoral election, becoming the first Hmong American mayor of a major U.S. city. She took office in January 2023 with promises to focus on crime, homelessness, and affordable housing.