Daniel Lurie Sworn In as San Francisco’s 46th Mayor

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) — Daniel Lurie was sworn in as San Francisco‘s 46th mayor on Wednesday, marking a historic moment for the city. The inauguration ceremony, held at Civic Center, was open to the public, though seating was limited to ticketed guests. Lurie began his day by volunteering at St. Anthony's, walking through the Tenderloin, and enjoying hot chocolate with his family at Ghirardelli Square before the official swearing-in.

Following the ceremony, City Hall hosted an open house featuring live music, a photo line with the new mayor, and an opportunity for attendees to write wishes for the city. The celebration extended to Chinatown, where Lurie became the first mayor to mark their first day in office with a community-wide event. The festivities included a night market, a concert headlined by a Grammy-nominated EDM artist, and a unity banquet at the historic Far East Café.

The unity dinner, organized by eight community groups, welcomed over 800 guests, including Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis and Attorney General Rob Bonta. The number eight holds cultural significance in Chinese tradition, symbolizing good luck and fortune. Kevin Chan, owner of the Chinatown Fortune Cookie Factory, expressed optimism about the new administration but also highlighted ongoing challenges in the neighborhood, such as cleanliness and safety issues.

“Me and the Chinese community have high hopes for him,” Chan said. “All the politicians make promises. I hope it’s not just a show.”

On the eve of the inauguration, hundreds gathered for an interfaith service at Congregation Emanu-El, where Lurie grew up attending. The event, featuring nearly 60 interfaith leaders, emphasized unity and hope for the city. Religious leaders addressed critical issues like housing, safety, and homelessness, with one speaker praying, “We hear the cries of those who make the streets their bed tonight.”

The evening concluded with a heartfelt blessing from Lurie’s father, Rabbi Brian Lurie, who expressed his confidence in his son’s ability to lead. “I believe with all my heart he will be a blessing for all of San Francisco,” the elder Lurie said. In an emotional moment, the mayor-elect pledged his commitment to the city, stating, “I will never stop working for each and every San Franciscan.”