Francis Zamora, the chief of communications for Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao, has resigned from his position shortly after the FBI raid on Thao’s house.
According to ABC7 News, Zamora released a statement to chief reporter Dan Noyes saying, “I resigned my position as Chief of Communications. I thank my colleagues for their professionalism and dedication. It was an honor to serve the City of Oakland beside them.”
Currently, no reason has been given for Zamora’s departure.
In a statement, Thao said that “Francis was a valuable member of the team whose contributions are greatly valued and appreciated. I think him for his service and wish him well.”
Zamora’s resignation follows a news conference Thao held on Monday where she spoke out about the FBI raid on her house, where she refused calls for her resignation and maintained her innocence. According to Noyes, Zamora was unaware of Thao’s speech beforehand, “and that he would not have approved of the angry tone and conspiracy content.”
The same day, Thao’s attorney, Tony Brass, also resigned on Monday. According to CBS Bay Area, Brass said that he “was not aware of Monday’s news conference, but he says it was not the reason why he is no longer representing Thao.”
“She received my request very cordially and thanked me for my work,” Brass said.
According to NBC Bay Area, Pati Navalta will temporarily serve as Zamora’s replacement until, a permanent communications director is found.
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