Barbara Lee and Loren Taylor Engage in Blame Game Over Sheng Thao Controversy

What Happened?

Barbara Lee, the Oakland City Council President, and Councilmember Loren Taylor have been at odds over the controversial hiring of Sheng Thao as the city’s new budget director.

The Blame Game

Lee and Taylor have been pointing fingers at each other, with Lee accusing Taylor of pushing for Thao’s hiring without proper vetting and Taylor accusing Lee of not providing enough support for Thao.

Thao’s Controversial Background

• Thao has faced criticism for her lack of experience and qualifications for the budget director position.
• She also has a history of financial issues, including a bankruptcy filing and tax liens.

The Impact on Oakland

The controversy has caused tension within the city council and raised concerns about the city’s financial management.

The Call for Accountability

Community members and city officials are calling for accountability and transparency in the hiring process for city positions.

The Outcome

Despite the blame game, Thao’s hiring has been approved and she will begin her role as budget director in January 2022.

Key Takeaways

• The controversy surrounding Sheng Thao’s hiring has caused tension and raised concerns about the city’s financial management.
• Barbara Lee and Loren Taylor have been at odds over the hiring, with both pointing fingers at each other.
• Thao’s controversial background and lack of experience have been major points of contention.
• Calls for accountability and transparency in the hiring process have been made by community members and city officials.
• Despite the controversy, Thao’s hiring has been approved and she will begin her role as budget director in January 2022.

Conclusion

The hiring of Sheng Thao as Oakland’s new budget director has sparked a blame game between city council members Barbara Lee and Loren Taylor. The controversy has raised concerns about the city’s financial management and the need for accountability and transparency in the hiring process. Despite the tension, Thao’s hiring has been approved and she will begin her role in January 2022.