The longtime lawmaker has held numerous private meetings with city officials about the issues affecting Oakland, from the ongoing budget crisis to homelessness to policing.

As the political landscape in Oakland shifts, California Rep. Barbara Lee has announced her consideration for a run for mayor.

Oakland has been in political chaos since November's recall of former Mayor Sheng Thao, who was only on the job for two years. The FBI raided her home in June.

On her last day as mayor after being recalled, Sheng Thao leaves Oakland, California, at a crossroads. There’s a $130 million deficit, challenges maintaining basic services and no sign of relief from a stalled stadium sale that was supposed to save the budget.

OAKLAND, Calif. - Dozens of Oakland leaders are calling on Congresswoman Barbara Lee to take the helm as the city's mayor. In a letter signed by Interim Oakland Mayor Nikki Fortunato Bas, Carl Chan, and Councilmember Treva Reid, among other community leaders, they urged Lee to run for mayor as the city grapples with turbulent times.