Oakland Fires Sheng Thaos Former Chief of Staff Over Note That Refers to Using Black People as Tokens

Leigh Hanson, the former chief of staff for recalled Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao, was fired after controversial meeting notes emerged, where she referred to Black individuals as "tokens. " This incident is part of an ongoing bribery and corruption trial involving Thao, which has captured public attention. Interim Mayor Kevin Jenkins confirmed Hanson's termination in a statement, thanking her for her service while appointing Deputy Mayor Burt Jones to take over her role. The notes, which surfaced as part of a trove of documents released by the City of Oakland, prompted significant outrage from the community. Hanson contended that her remarks were misinterpreted, claiming they specifically referred to Seneca Scott, a Black political operative hired by wealthy donors behind the recall campaign.

Scott's involvement is framed by Hanson as a form of tokenization, suggesting that Oakland voters deserved transparency regarding his role. The situation has been exacerbated by Scott's controversial past, including previous legal troubles and a restraining order against an aide in the mayor's office. As the NAACP plans a press conference addressing the matter, the political landscape in Oakland remains tense and charged.