By Dave ‘Davey D’ Cook | Hard Knock Radio March 31 2025
As Oakland faces a pivotal special election on April 15, Hard Knock Radio’s Davey D brought together a powerhouse panel to unpack the rising influence of dark money, the spread of right-wing political tactics, and the media-driven doom loop narrative that’s gripping the city. Guests included Pecolia Manigo and Chaney Turner of Oakland Rising Action, Pastor Mike McBride of LIVE FREE, and independent journalist Leon Breckenridge—all sounding the alarm about coordinated efforts to reshape Oakland’s politics from the outside in.
The Rise of Billionaire Influence and Political Astroturfing
Pecolia Manigo, Executive Director of Oakland Rising Action, opened the conversation with a breakdown of disturbing financial patterns infiltrating local politics. “We’re seeing massive amounts of funding—venture capitalists, hedge fund investors, crypto bros, and corporate real estate firms—all working to buy influence in our elections,” Manigo warned.
She highlighted groups like Empower Oakland and The Abundance Network—political action committees largely funded by outside donors, often sidestepping local campaign finance laws by operating just beyond city borders. A staggering $3.8 million was spent across 10 Oakland campaigns in 2024 alone, yet grassroots efforts defeated 7 of those with sheer people power.
Manigo credits Oakland’s 2022 Measure W, the Fair Elections Act, with helping expose money trails and enabling voter transparency. “The people are watching, and they’re demanding accountability,” she emphasized.
Fear, Crime, and the Doom Loop Narrative
Leon Breckenridge, a journalist who’s constantly on the ground, spoke candidly about how fear is weaponized to justify reactionary policies. “People feel unsafe, but the narrative being pushed isn’t matching the lived reality,” he said, noting how everyday Oakland life often contradicts the media portrayal of constant crime and chaos.
He pointed out that tech giants and corporations—like In-N-Out, which donated $500,000 to Prop 36—are manipulating public fears around crime to roll back progressive reforms. “People are blaming unhoused folks and ‘bippers’ instead of questioning why the system is failing,” Breckenridge said. “It’s easier to scapegoat the vulnerable than confront corporate greed.”
A National Blueprint, Local Implications
Pastor Mike McBride of LIVE FREE brought a national lens to the conversation, confirming that Oakland isn’t alone. “There is a coordinated right-wing effort to delegitimize Black and Brown progressive leadership in cities across America,” he explained. “This narrative—crime, failure, fear—it’s being replicated everywhere, from Oakland to Chicago.”
He also emphasized the manipulative use of social media and AI-generated content to fuel misinformation. “Videos labeled ‘Oakland’ are showing footage from Atlanta. There’s no Apple Store in Oakland to rob,” he quipped, highlighting how narrative distortion is intentional.
Pastor Mike also lifted up Oakland’s recent successes in crime reduction due to investments in prevention, intervention, and community services—not just policing.
A Media Machine That Fuels the Fire
Chaney Turner, Chair of Oakland Rising Action, called out local media outlets like KTVU and figures such as PR consultant Sam Singer for fueling “doom loop” stories that parrot far-right talking points. “These media attacks were relentless when progressive women like Pamela Price and Sheng Thao were in office. The moment leadership changed? Silence.”
Turner warned that Oakland’s progressive reforms—like ranked choice voting and rent protections—are now targets of repeal efforts funded by right-wing billionaires. “They’re trying to dismantle our democracy under the guise of ‘safety,’” she said. “We’re not just fighting for votes; we’re fighting for our values.”
Accountability and the Fight Ahead
As the show wrapped up, all panelists emphasized the need for political clarity and unity. Manigo urged residents to visit OaklandRisingAction.org and explore the Phoenix Project’s Astroturf Map, which reveals the complex web of political money laundering via shell PACs and “fake” community groups.
Pastor Mike underscored the importance of voting in the April 15 special election. “It’s Tax Day, yes—but it’s also the day we pay our debt to our ancestors. Oakland is not for sale.”
Both Turner and McBride criticized the smear campaign against Congresswoman Barbara Lee, who is running for mayor. “If we can’t stand up for Barbara Lee—one of the most ethical leaders Oakland has ever had—then who can we stand for?” Pastor Mike asked.
Key Takeaways and Action Steps
- Special Election April 15: Check your mailboxes for ballots and vote early.
- Visit OaklandRisingAction.org for a progressive voter guide.
- Explore the Astroturf Map via the Phoenix Project to follow money trails.
- Call out media disinformation and demand accountability from news outlets.
- Support grassroots education and organizing to resist billionaire influence and restore community power.
Final Word: Oakland’s Soul Is Not For Sale
From fake narratives to real lives, this Hard Knock Radio conversation made it clear: Oakland’s political battle is bigger than any single election. It’s about defending truth, democracy, and the legacy of radical community power.
“Don’t let fear steal your voice,” Manigo said in closing. “They spend millions because they’re scared of us. Let’s remind them why.”
Hard Knock Radio airs daily on KPFA 94.1FM. with hosts Davey D and Anita Johnson ..Follow Davey D on all platforms @mrdaveyd. For more episodes, visit kpfa.org/program/hard-knock-radio.
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