Alan Wong, a child of immigrants, military veteran, and twice-elected City College of San Francisco trustee, is now the newest Supervisor representing the Sunset District. He was sworn in on Monday, marking a fresh chapter for Mayor Daniel Lurie after his first appointee resigned just a week into the job.
Wong Sworn In at Abraham Lincoln High School
Mayor Daniel Lurie introduced Wong as someone whose life and work “represent the heart of this neighborhood.” Wong’s public service background, especially his years in the National Guard and at City College, shaped Lurie’s decision to appoint him.
Taking the microphone for the first time as Supervisor, Wong promised to “restore trust” at City Hall and work toward a safer, more affordable Sunset community.
Born and Raised in the Sunset District
Wong has deep roots in the Sunset. He grew up in rented apartments with his parents, who immigrated from Hong Kong. He attended Abraham Lincoln High School — the same location where he was sworn in.
A Childhood Shaped by the Neighborhood
Wong often talks about exploring the Sunset’s shops and commercial streets with his mother after school. His father attended English and culinary classes at City College before becoming a hotel cook at the Grand Hyatt. The union job supported the family and helped them stay in the Outer and Inner Sunset for two decades.
Wong also took part in student government and enrolled in City College classes while in high school. He later went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from UC San Diego at age 19 and a Master’s in Public Affairs from the University of San Francisco.
Controversial Tenure at City College
Wong’s five-year service on the City College Board of Trustees came during a difficult time for the institution. City College has long faced pressure over finances, enrollment drops, and accreditation issues.
A Strong Union Ally — Until the Break
Wong, once a union organizer, regularly voted with the union-aligned majority on the board. However, in a major turning point, he withdrew his support for the board’s preferred chancellor candidate after a report surfaced about the candidate’s DUI arrest. This move broke the alliance and led to hiring someone else.
Wong also helped create the “Free City” program, which allows San Francisco residents to attend City College for free. He opposed any attempts to limit the program only to degree-seeking students.
Accreditation Issues and Criticism
In 2024, accreditors issued a warning to City College for failing to protect its long-term financial stability and for not following its own policies. Supervisor Rafael Mandelman formally asked Wong to explain the problems, but Wong never responded.
Some critics said Wong was overly optimistic and unwilling to support the budget cuts needed for a smaller student population.
Service in the California National Guard
Wong has served for more than 15 years in the California Army National Guard. He joined after reading news about U.S. troops serving in the Middle East and felt it was his civic responsibility.
On the Frontlines of California’s Disasters
He has helped respond to natural disasters, including deployments to wildfire zones such as the deadly 2018 Camp Fire.
This year, when President Trump attempted to deploy Guard troops for immigration enforcement in major cities, Wong said he would request to be excused from such a mission “as a matter of conscience.”
Where Alan Wong Stands Politically
While Wong is new to the Board of Supervisors, his past positions give insight into his political leanings.
Housing, Zoning & Sunset Issues
Wong said he supports expanding housing options so future generations can stay in the Sunset. He warned that if the Board does not act, “Sacramento will dictate zoning for us.”
He also shared that he voted against Proposition K, which permanently closed the Great Highway to cars. He promised to bring both sides together for a fair compromise.
Progressive Views
In past political surveys, Wong supported progressive causes such as:
- Disbanding ICE
- Decriminalizing sex work
- Creating overdose prevention sites
- Paying reparations to Black residents
He backed Bernie Sanders in the 2020 presidential primary and has donated to several progressive San Francisco leaders, including Connie Chan, Chyanne Chen, Dean Preston, and Myrna Melgar.
Wong’s Promise to the Community
Wong emphasized that his priority is listening to the people of the Sunset. He aims to bring unity to a district often divided by issues like housing, transportation, and zoning.
“It is my responsibility to heal a divided community,” he said. “My commitment is to hear my community before I act.”
Conclusion
Alan Wong enters office at a critical time for the Sunset District and San Francisco. With strong local roots, a long history of public service, and progressive values, he brings both experience and controversy to his new role. As Supervisor, he promises to rebuild trust, work on housing solutions, and represent the voices of all Sunset residents.
