Greg Hodge is a seasoned nonprofit and government sector professional with decades of experience working with social justice activists, advocates, elected officials, agency directors, educators, and families. He is well known in Oakland and has a strong reputation for his commitment to public service and local cultural arts. His previous experience includes serving as an elected member of OUSD’s school board and running the city council’s annual work-planning retreat, which provide him with insight into the inner workings of Oakland. Hodge walks into the mayoral race with strong critiques of the current administration. He has plans to strengthen The Town by building bridges with those on City Council, community organizations, and labor. Unlike the candidates determined to carry on the current administration’s legacy, Hodge is an advocate for alternative methods of achieving public safety, including considering models that move us away from our police department to a public safety department. Our concern with Hodge is that while he tries to hear all sides of an issue, we need him to avoid moderate policy reforms and instead bring more moderate voices in Oakland into a coalition with the progressive movement and make bold changes to the status quo. However, Hodge is equipped to be our next mayor, bringing years of relevant experience and endorsements from various leaders, activists, artists, and elected officials that prove his dedication and investments in his community.