Who is new Supervisor Beya Alcaraz? And what does District 4 think?

Isabella “Beya” Alcaraz was sworn in as San Francisco's new city supervisor for District 4 on her 29th birthday, a significant milestone for the community. Mayor Daniel Lurie praised her as an “accountable leader,” emphasizing her deep ties to the Sunset neighborhood despite her lack of political experience. Alcaraz, previously an arts and music teacher and pet shop owner, inherits a challenging position after her predecessor faced a recall due to controversial decisions regarding the Great Highway. Community members are eager for a representative who understands their unique neighborhood dynamics, particularly on pressing issues like the mayor's upzoning plan. Polls conducted before her appointment showed that residents responded favorably to a candidate with a similar background and ethnicity, indicating a desire for relatable leadership.

Critics, such as recall campaign manager Jamie Hughes, question her qualifications, while supporters like former supervisor Gordon Mar acknowledge her community ties. Alcaraz's lack of a voting record in recent elections raises further concerns about her engagement in local politics. The new supervisor must navigate these challenges swiftly to establish her credibility among constituents.