San Francisco's liberal reputation is being questioned as voters pass measures giving more power to police and requiring drug treatment for welfare recipients. Critics claim the city has shifted to the right due to billionaire influence, but Mayor London Breed defends the measures as progressive. The city's pandemic-related issues have led to a perceived decline in its reputation, prompting a shift towards more moderate policies. Despite opposition, the measures were approved, indicating public exhaustion with the drug crisis and a desire for effective solutions. However, some argue that San Francisco remains a progressive city at heart. Amid the pandemic, there have been positive changes, such as the rebound of elephant seal populations on the Pacific Coast of California.