Wayne Fong to Step Down as San Mateo County Assessor

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  Published in Politics and Government on Monday, February 2nd 2026 at 6:40 GMT by Patch
      Locale: UNITED STATES

SAN MATEO, CA - February 2nd, 2026 - San Mateo County is bracing for a significant shift in leadership as Wayne Fong, the long-serving Assessor-County Clerk-Recorder and Chief Elections Officer, announced today he will not seek re-election at the end of his current term. The decision, revealed in a press release this morning, marks the end of a remarkable 20+ year tenure characterized by consistent service and oversight of critical county functions.

Fong's announcement comes as a surprise to many within the county's political landscape, though he cites a desire to prioritize family and personal pursuits as the driving force behind his decision. While details regarding his future plans remain undisclosed, the timing suggests a carefully considered move allowing ample time for a smooth transition.

The role of Assessor-County Clerk-Recorder is multifaceted, demanding expertise in property valuation, meticulous record-keeping, and the complex administration of county-wide elections. For two decades, Fong has been the central figure in these areas, responsible for accurately assessing property values - a cornerstone of the county's tax base - maintaining legally vital public records, and ensuring the integrity of San Mateo County's electoral process. The Chief Elections Officer role, in particular, has become increasingly scrutinized in recent years, with growing national focus on election security and accessibility.

Under Fong's leadership, San Mateo County has consistently been recognized for its high voter turnout and efficient election administration. The county was an early adopter of voter centers, expanding access to polling locations and streamlining the voting experience. He also oversaw the implementation of several key technology upgrades aimed at modernizing record-keeping and enhancing data security, protecting sensitive information from potential breaches. The transition to new voting technologies, a process always fraught with challenges, was largely considered successful under his direction.

"Wayne Fong has dedicated over two decades of exemplary service to San Mateo County," stated County Manager Mike Callagy in the official release. "His leadership has been invaluable, and we thank him for his commitment to our community." Callagy's statement underscores the magnitude of Fong's contribution and the challenge facing the county in identifying a suitable replacement.

The upcoming election will undoubtedly be highly competitive. Potential candidates are already being discussed amongst local political circles. The position demands a unique skillset - a blend of financial acumen for property assessment, legal understanding for record management, and a deep commitment to democratic principles for overseeing elections. Beyond these core competencies, the next officeholder will also need to navigate the increasingly complex landscape of election cybersecurity, voter data privacy, and evolving election laws.

The County is now initiating the process of selecting an interim successor to ensure continuity while the election process unfolds. This will likely involve a review of qualified internal candidates and potentially an external search, depending on the timeline and available expertise. The Board of Supervisors will play a crucial role in this decision, balancing the need for experienced leadership with the desire for a fresh perspective.

The stakes are particularly high given the upcoming 2028 presidential election. San Mateo County is a significant electoral district in California, and ensuring a smooth and secure election in 2028 will be paramount. The new Chief Elections Officer will inherit the responsibility of preparing for this critical event, including updating voter rolls, training poll workers, and implementing security protocols.

Fong's departure signifies more than just a change in personnel; it marks a turning point for San Mateo County. While his legacy of dedicated service will undoubtedly be remembered, the county now faces the task of charting a new course under new leadership. The election promises to be a closely watched event, not only within San Mateo County but also by election observers across the state, eager to see how the county adapts to this significant leadership transition.