Two of S.F.'s richest pressure groups, TogetherSF and Neighbors, will merge

TogetherSF and Neighbors for a Better San Francisco have announced their merger, creating a unified political group aimed at addressing key issues in San Francisco. The decision comes on the heels of a costly election campaign where the two groups spent over $10 million but struggled to achieve meaningful victories. Jay Cheng will lead the newly formed organization, focusing on improving public safety, education, and civic engagement. However, the merger faces immediate challenges, particularly from Mayor Daniel Lurie, who is reportedly unwilling to work with Cheng due to past ethical issues, including a significant ethics fine. This merger highlights the ongoing fragmentation within the city's pro-business coalition, which has drawn criticism from major donors for its lack of cohesion.

Chris Larsen, a prominent backer of the previous administration, expressed regret over the group's focus during the election, suggesting they misaligned their priorities. As the new organization seeks to establish itself, it will need to navigate a complex political landscape and regain the trust of both its supporters and the wider community. The future effectiveness of this merger will depend on its ability to unify a fractured coalition and deliver on its promises.