John,

Neighbor to neighbor, this campaign has real momentum. Today, Planned Parenthood Northern California Action Fund joined the San Francisco Democratic Party and SEIU 1021 in sole endorsing Vallie's campaign. Dean Preston's not taking it well and his campaign is threatening to drive this race into the gutter.

I was so proud to see the 80+ community members from all over District 5 come to the Democratic Party endorsement meeting to share their personal stories about how Vallie Brown has helped us—and I was honored to tell my own story, too.

But it was in stark contrast to Dean’s supporters, what few there were, who spoke negatively about Vallie and mocked her for picking up trash on her block. After Dean lost the vote, his campaign manager even flipped off (yes, that kind of flipped off) the whole room. We all feel passionately, but to me it looked like the childish behavior of a sore loser.

And then, last Friday, two paid staffers of Dean’s were caught lying and posing as members of Vallie's campaign and tearing down her campaign sign at Oasis Cafe on Divisadero. I personally know the owner, who’s hosted many community meetings. He felt disrespected by the lying and theft. This happened a few days ago and these staffers are still working on Dean’s campaign.

Dean’s paid and volunteer canvassers, many from out of the district and the city, frequently repeat outright lies about Vallie. I've heard it personally at my door and from my friends and neighbors.

We’re facing real issues and challenges as a city. We don’t need a Supervisor caught up in petty politics and voter intimidation. We need a Supervisor who gets things done, respects our voice, our community, and our small businesses—regardless of which candidate they’re supporting in this race. 

I’ve been out volunteering for Vallie nearly every week of this campaign. I know the momentum is with us and Dean is running scared. Let’s keep it up: Make a contribution to the campaign and join me in volunteering to knock on doors and call voters.

-Leela Gill
NOPA Resident