Former Supervisor Explores Mayoral Bid

By: Jennifer Gollan

Former San Francisco Supervisor Tony Hall has formed an exploratory committee ahead of a possible run for mayor. 

"I want to be clear that I have not made a final decision on running for mayor," Hall said in a written statement. "Opening an exploratory committee is merely a necessary step that allows me to begin outreach and give consideration to this important decision."

In 2008, the San Francisco Ethics Commission concluded that Hall had violated campaign finance rules during his aborted run in 2004 for a second term on the Board of Supervisors. He was fined $6,000 for using campaign money to pay for gifts for his family and to cover gasoline and automobile expenses.

Hall would join a crowded field of contenders in the race to replace Mayor Gavin Newsom, who is headed to Sacramento to become the next lieutenant governor. 

San Francisco Board of Supervisors President David Chiu would automatically become the interim mayor if no one is chosen, but the board has agreed to vote on who will be the next acting mayor.