A complaint was filed today in Contra Costa Superior Court for a writ of mandate prohibiting Gayle McLaughlin from serving ever again as mayor of the City of Richmond.  Click here for complaint.

The Richmond City Charter is clear that “No person may serve as mayor for more than two full terms.” Gayle Mclaughlin served as mayor two full terms, from 2007 to 2015.

McLaughlin was elected vice-mayor in January of 2023 and, pursuant to the Charter, the vice-mayor “shall serve as the mayor,” in the absence or disability of the mayor.

On March 7, 2023, Gayle McLaughlin violated the City Charter by serving as mayor, once again, during the absence of Mayor Eduardo Martinez. Presumably, she would serve as mayor again if Mayor Martinez is absent any time in the remainder of 2023.