49ers spend millions influencing Santa Clara politics with mixed early results

The San Francisco 49ers have invested more than $2.6 million this year through independent expenditure committees to influence local politics in the City of Santa Clara, according to San Jose Inside. This spending is part of a broader effort by the team, which has spent nearly $11.5 million since 2020 to support local politicians.

The 49ers' political action committee (PAC) backed mayoral candidate Gary Ferraris while opposing two of his five rivals, Kathy Watanabe and David Kertes. Early returns from the Santa Clara County Registrar of Voters showed Watanabe in second place with 2,619 votes, trailing Karen Hardy who led with 2,911 votes. Ferraris was in fourth place with 1,472 votes.

In addition to the mayoral race, the PAC supported council candidate Kimberley Williams and opposed Yvonne Inciarte. Early vote counts showed Williams leading with 1,021 votes compared to Inciarte's 737 votes. In Council District 3, where the 49ers PAC did not intervene, Eric Crutchlow was leading Kyle Madej 993 to 818 votes.

The 49ers' political spending is notable given the team's off-season expenditure of nearly $42 million on free agents, which is considered modest by NFL standards. The team appears committed to maintaining its presence and influence in the Santa Clara area, home to their stadium and fan base.

The final election results will determine the effectiveness of the 49ers' political investments in Santa Clara, as early vote tallies show a competitive race with no clear winners yet.