The stage was set for a riveting clash at the Oakland mayoral debate, where former Congresswoman Barbara Lee and ex-Councilmember Loren Taylor hurled accusations faster than you can say “where’s our money going?” In this special election to replace the recently recalled Sheng Thao, both candidates reached for their verbal weapons, blaming each other for enabling the alleged corruption of the Thao era.

After a string of less-than-stellar previous debates, this KTVU-hosted showcase finally brought two serious contenders to the forefront. Out with the fringe candidates and in with the big players, this was the political throwdown we’ve been waiting for. It’s like we opened our windows to let in some fresh air, instead of the usual stuffy, stale political rhetoric that practically screams “give me a break!”

Lee, the veteran of the bunch, reminded everyone why she’s been in the political game for over two decades. At 78, she still knows how to connect with the crowd, something Thao struggled with for the duration of his short-lived, chaotic term. Meanwhile, Taylor, the private sector’s golden boy, came armed with an economic platform poised to win over everything from artisan coffee shops to mega-corporations.

The debate turned spicy when the topic of Thao’s legacy came up. “You’ve been endorsed by some of the same people who supported the mess we’re in!” Taylor spat out, as the crowd buzzed with mixed cheers and jeers. Lee swiftly rebutted, touting her support from labor unions and community organizations, insisting she wouldn’t engage in petty shots at Taylor’s supporters.

By the end, both candidates had delivered some theatrical flourishes, with Taylor calling Oakland a “drain” on state resources, prompting Lee to shoot back, “We’re taxpayers, not charity cases!” Can you say mic drop?

Amid the budget woes, crime concerns, and homelessness crises, it becomes clear that both candidates possess viable solutions, albeit with different approaches. Lee suggested more taxes on the affluent and fine enforcement while Taylor argued for reducing the business burden to kick-start economic revitalization.

In this debate of epic proportions, it’s fair to say Oakland’s hopes hung on a thread. Whether you’ve got Team Lee or Team Taylor on your side, there’s a glimmer of hope that perhaps we can finally ditch the mastery of dysfunction held by Thao and emerge as a city led by competent leaders.