Sean Elsbernd departs for San Francisco mayor’s office

            Washington—Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today announced that Jim Lazarus will take over as state director on January 2, 2019. Outgoing State Director Sean Elsbernd is now the chief of staff for San Francisco Mayor London Breed.

Jim Lazarus

            Lazarus, who was appointed deputy mayor of San Francisco by Feinstein in 1983, currently serves as the senior vice president for public policy at the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce, a position he’s held since 2006. Lazarus also served as deputy mayor under Mayor Frank Jordan, as deputy city attorney from 1975 to 1980 and in private practice from 1980 to 1983.

            Feinstein said: “I’m very pleased to welcome Jim Lazarus back to my office. Jim has an excellent grasp of policy and politics in San Francisco and has deep roots in the Bay Area. I have always valued Jim’s judgment and his professionalism. I believe he’ll help advance my priorities in California and Washington and look forward to working closely with him.”

Sean Elsbernd

            Sean Elsbernd is leaving the office to become chief of staff for San Francisco Mayor London Breed after serving Senator Feinstein for six years as deputy state director and state director. A native of San Francisco, Elsbernd served on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors from 2004 to 2012.

            Feinstein said: “Sean has been an integral part of my office for six years. His knowledge of Northern California and state politics is second to none. I’m sad to see him go, but I’m pleased that he’ll be staying in San Francisco where I expect him to achieve great things.”