A Climate Change with Matt Matern Climate Podcast

David Chiu is the City Attorney of San Francisco and the first Asian American to hold the position. He leads one of the nation’s most respected public law offices, providing legal counsel to city agencies, protecting the rights of San Franciscans, and representing the city in complex legal matters.

The son of immigrant parents, David grew up in Boston and earned his undergraduate, public policy, and law degrees from Harvard University. His legal career has included service with the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee, a federal appellate court clerkship, civil rights advocacy, criminal prosecution, and leadership roles in both the nonprofit and private sectors.

Before becoming City Attorney, David served on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, where he became the city’s first Asian American Board President and authored more than 100 local laws addressing housing, public safety, healthcare, environmental protection, and civil rights. He later represented San Francisco in the California State Assembly, where he served for eight years, chaired the Assembly Housing and Community Development Committee, and authored more than 75 state laws. His landmark Tenant Protection Act of 2019 significantly expanded renter protections across California.

A lifelong advocate for equity, housing, and public service, David continues to champion policies that strengthen communities and improve access to justice.