S.F. Republicans want Joel Engardio gone. So do progressives.

A coalition of San Francisco's Republican Party and some progressive Democrats is backing the recall of District 4 Supervisor Joel Engardio, driven by dissatisfaction over his support for Proposition K, which limited car access to portions of the Great Highway. The recall campaign, led by former progressive staffers, highlights a sense of betrayal among constituents, particularly as 64% of Engardio's district voted against the measure. Jamie Hughes, the campaign manager, asserted that the coalition represents a diverse array of constituents feeling let down by Engardio's decisions. The Stand With Joel campaign, supporting Engardio, has raised over $667,000, significantly outpacing the recall campaign’s fundraising efforts. This pro-Engardio campaign positions the recall as a conservative backlash against progressive efforts to create a more affordable and livable city.

Former staffers from progressive campaigns dominate the recall's paid staff, complicating the political dynamic. Eric Jaye emphasized that the primary issue at stake is the alignment of elected officials with their constituents' needs, rather than strict ideological divides. As the recall election approaches, both sides are mobilizing their bases ahead of the September 16 vote.