San Francisco Mayor Lurie Appoints Political Novice Beya Alcaraz to Board, Stirring Progressive Concerns

San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie has appointed Isabella "Beya" Alcaraz, a 29-year-old political newcomer, to represent District 4 on the Board of Supervisors. The appointment, made on November 6, 2025, follows the recall of former Supervisor Joel Engardio and has immediately stirred discussion regarding the new supervisor's experience and the potential shift in the Board's political balance. Alcaraz, a former pet store owner and art teacher, was sworn in on her birthday.

Alcaraz is a lifelong resident of the Sunset District, where she previously owned and operated "The Animal Connection" pet store and taught art and music to children. Mayor Lurie lauded her deep community ties and problem-solving abilities, emphasizing her local roots over traditional political experience. She is also the first Filipina American to serve on the Board of Supervisors, a significant milestone for the city.

However, the appointment has drawn mixed reactions, with some political observers questioning her lack of prior government or campaign experience. Alcaraz faces two elections in 2026—one in June to complete Engardio's term, and another in November for a full four-year term. She will immediately confront contentious issues such as the future of the Great Highway and the Mayor's Family Zoning Plan, both critical to District 4 residents.

The appointment has also ignited speculation about underlying political maneuvers, as suggested by a recent tweet from Susan Dyer Reynolds. Reynolds stated, > "I seriously doubt @DanielLurie knew who she was, so someone pushed her in front of him. Today Aaron Peskin is laughing like a villain." This implies a belief that Alcaraz's selection was influenced by powerful figures, potentially benefiting progressive factions on the Board. Aaron Peskin, the current President of the Board of Supervisors and a prominent progressive who ran against Lurie in the 2024 mayoral election, holds significant sway in city politics. Peskin will term out in January 2025, but his influence remains a key factor in San Francisco politics.

Reynolds further drew historical parallels, noting, > "She will be another Christine Olague (who London Brees beat) or Julie Christiansen (who Peskin beat). Progs will tip an already wonky Board." Christine Olague was appointed by Mayor Ed Lee to District 5 in 2012 but lost her subsequent election to London Breed, then a rising political figure, partly due to a controversial vote regarding Sheriff Ross Mirkarimi. Similarly, Julie Christensen, another mayoral appointee in 2015, was defeated by Aaron Peskin in District 3. These examples highlight a pattern where mayoral appointees without strong independent political bases have struggled to retain their seats against established or emerging progressive candidates. The tweet suggests a concern that Alcaraz's appointment could inadvertently strengthen the progressive bloc on the Board, potentially making it "wonky" or more aligned with progressive policies.

Alcaraz's tenure will be closely watched as she navigates complex city issues and prepares for her upcoming electoral challenges. Her success or struggle will not only define her political future but also significantly impact Mayor Lurie's ability to shape the Board of Supervisors and advance his agenda in San Francisco.