Alex Hall

Alex Hall, a KQED reporter, dives into the recent indictment of former Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao, who faces serious charges of conspiracy and bribery. Hall sheds light on the scandal's intricate ties to local politics, including the involvement of prominent businessmen and a controversial campaign. The conversation explores public sentiment regarding trust in government as the city grapples with the fallout. As Oakland approaches special elections, the implications of Thao’s legal troubles loom large, raising questions about the future of the city's leadership.

Scott Shafer, a senior editor at KQED, discusses the inauguration of San Francisco's new mayor, Daniel Lurie, and the challenges he faces. Alex Hall updates listeners on Oakland's interim mayor, Kevin Jenkins, and Congresswoman Barbara Lee's mayoral candidacy following a recall. Guy Marzorati highlights the urgent issues of public safety, homelessness, and the fentanyl crisis that new leaders must tackle. The conversation emphasizes the necessity for collaboration amidst a complex political landscape, shaping the future of the Bay Area.

Alex Hall, a KQED reporter specializing in Oakland's political landscape, dives into the recent recall of Mayor Sheng Thao, marking a historic moment for the city. He discusses the community's sentiments leading to the recall and outlines the procedural steps for the special election ahead. Hall highlights the concerns over local governance mismanagement and the pressing need for effective leadership to tackle critical issues like crime and homelessness. Oaklanders voice their hopes for a new mayor who prioritizes community engagement and urban improvements.

Guy Marzorati, KQED's California Politics expert, teams up with reporters Sydney Johnson, Alex Hall, and Annelise Finney to dissect the recent election results in the Bay Area. They dive into the controversial outcomes of local races, including the impact of ranked choice voting in San Francisco’s mayoral race and the Oakland mayoral recall. Voter concerns over crime significantly influenced ballots, including Measure J’s ban on large-scale animal farms. Together, they unpack how these shifts reflect broader political dynamics and the evolving sentiments of Bay Area voters.

Alex Hall, a KQED reporter specializing in Shasta County elections, sheds light on the challenges facing voters in this northern California region. He discusses the recent transition of election officials following the retirement of a longtime registrar. The conversation touches on community trust issues, including local decisions on voting integrity and the shift to hand-counted ballots. Hall also emphasizes the importance of transparency in managing elections and reassures voters about the security of their voting machines.