Former Representative Barbara Lee, a seasoned veteran of California politics with over two decades of legislative experience, has stepped into the mayoral race of Oakland by filing the necessary campaign paperwork, signaling a potential bid. According to city records, Lee has completed a "Statement of Organization: Recipient Committee" followed by her candidate intention statement, paving the way for fundraising efforts under the "Barbara Lee for Oakland Mayor 2025" campaign, CBS News San Francisco reported.

As the political waters start to stir, Lee's entry into the race could draw a line in the sand, elevating her to a position of favoritism, attributed to her substantial name recognition and longstanding relationship with Oakland's electorate. Her commitment to the race will lead to a formal announcement later this week. At the same time, her spokesperson, Sean Dugar, hinted at the anticipated revelation, as per the San Francisco Chronicle, "The congresswoman will be making an announcement about her decision later this week," possibly reshuffling the array of current candidates.

The upcoming special election was called following the recall of former Mayor Sheng Thao and interim mayor Nikki Fortunato Bas stepping in until becoming an Alameda County supervisor. An interim mayor, yet to be decided by the City Council, will serve until the April election.