The debate over San Francisco's finance reform ordinance continues as several letters to the editor urge city supervisors to delay its repeal. The ordinance, which was passed in 2019, sets limits on campaign contributions for local elections and requires more disclosure from political action committees (PACs).
In one letter, signed by a group of concerned citizens, the writers argue that repealing the ordinance now would be premature. "We believe that it is important for San Francisco voters to have confidence that our elected officials are beholden only to them," they wrote. "Delaying action on this repeal will allow time for a thorough review of all aspects of campaign finance reform."
Another letter takes a different approach and suggests that outrage over the finance ordinance is hypocritical. The writer argues that those who oppose it are simply looking out for their own interests: "Those who decry 'special interests' in politics are often themselves part of such groups – whether real estate developers or labor unions."
Despite these opinions, some city supervisors remain committed to repealing the finance reform ordinance. Supervisor Matt Haney has been vocal about his opposition since he first took office last year.
"I'm not convinced that limiting donations will actually improve democracy," Haney said in an interview with local media outlet KQED earlier this month.
The Board of Supervisors' rules committee is set to consider Haney's proposal at its next meeting on June 2nd.