We are generally happy with the job that Mano Raju is doing as the incumbent Public Defender. We think he does a good job defending the accused, avoiding drumming up needless political controversy. However, we don't think he's perfect: he thinks we spend too much money on Police and public safety, and wants the Public Defender to expand its scope to enact broad policy reforms. But his opponent, Rebecca Young, quit the Public Defender's office to go work for recalled District Attorney Chesa Boudin.

We think the Public Defender should focus on defense, not activism. And Mano Raju is the better choice among two imperfect candidates.