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Politics

Roundtable: New Leadership At San Diego City Hall

Todd Gloria being virtually sworn in by California's Senate President pro-Tempore Toni Atkins on Dec. 10, 2020
City of San Diego
Todd Gloria being virtually sworn in by California's Senate President pro-Tempore Toni Atkins on Dec. 10, 2020
San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria begins his term with a city council dominated by Democrats, a look back on the Mayor Kevin Faulconer era, and some analysis on San Diego's record-breaking voter turnout in the 2020 general election.

San Diego’s Progressive Era Begins

In what was long considered a moderately Republican city, Democrats now hold a near unanimous grip on the levers of power at San Diego City Hall. This week, a Democrat was sworn-in as mayor and all but one of the city council's nine seats are held by a Democrat. The Union-Tribune's David Garrick covers city hall and joins us to talk about the new approach to tackling the city's problems.

RELATED: 73rd San Diego City Council Sworn In, Promises Action On Pandemic

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Examining Mayor Kevin Faulconer's Legacy

Todd Gloria is now the mayor of San Diego and that means an end to the Kevin Faulconer era. The Republican departs with some accomplishments and some challenges left unmet, especially when it comes to the city's homeless and housing crisis. KPBS metro reporter Andrew Bowen profiled the outgoing mayor and joins us to talk about how he'll be remembered.

RELATED: Looking Back At San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer’s Wins And Losses

The Story Behind San Diego's Historic Election Turnout

Holding an election during a pandemic isn't easy, but it turned out to be the most successful yet in terms of overall voter turnout. A shift to voting-by-mail along with expanded in-person early voting options seemingly allowed for greater participation and offers a glimpse at how elections might be handled going forward. Union-Tribune reporter John Wilkens recently analyzed the numbers and takes a look at the lessons for local election officials.

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RELATED: Voters’ Ballots Go Through Elaborate Journey At Registrar’s Office Before They’re Counted