Sacramento’s mayoral race has its first candidate. Who is she and what are her plans?
Flojaune Cofer, former chairwoman of the Measure U Committee and a progressive organizer, on Wednesday became the first candidate to throw her name in the 2024 Sacramento mayoral race.
Cofer, an epidemiologist, got her start in Sacramento politics while leading that citizen commission tasked with helping decide how to spend millions of dollars in sales tax money.
As chairwoman, she was highly critical of Mayor Darrell Steinberg, who has not yet announced if he plans to run for reelection.
Backed by more than 100 supporters during a brief speech in front of City Hall, Cofer said she plans to prioritize community safety, while also addressing housing and homelessness, inclusivity and economic development.
She also expressed her desire to create a more collaborative effort in city government, which she said does not currently exist.
If elected, Cofer would become the city’s first Black female mayor.
“I’m running for mayor because I know more is possible…I’m offering a choice to bring a different flavor and culture to city hall,” said Cofer, a senior director of policy at Public Health Advocates.
Cofer noted thus far she is the only candidate in the race.
In 2020, Steinberg said he had “zero intention of running for a third term.” But Steinberg, along with former City Council members Jeff Harris and Steve Hansen, have filed paperwork with the city to fund raise.
A spokesperson for Steinberg said on Wednesday there is “no announcement at this time” regarding whether the mayor plans to seek reelection.
Individuals running for mayor have until Dec. 8 to submit their candidacy.
In her announcement, Cofer emphasized her ability to bring people together, saying that Sacramento needs a change from the status quo.
“People that don’t feel heard,” she said. “It’s my job to listen. It’s my job to hold the institution accountable”
She plans to not accept donations from corporate and political action committees, fossil fuel companies, the tobacco industry or law enforcement.
Cofer added she will only take money from real estate, landlords and developers if they support affordable housing, tenant protections and anti-displacement issues.
“I think it’s important for elections to have real choices and I’m offering a progressive choice,” Cofer said.
Cofer also pushed back against the notion that Sacramento’s leadership has a “weak mayor system,” in reference to the city manager being the chief executive officer.
Easy fixes to that idea, Cofer said, are setting priorities, restructuring meetings and including the community.
“I can be strong without a strong mayor system. Maybe we need a different person who knows how to work the existing system,” Cofer said.
The 2024 primary election is scheduled for March 5.
This story was originally published April 19, 2023 at 2:49 PM with the headline "Sacramento’s mayoral race has its first candidate. Who is she and what are her plans?."
