SAN FRANCISCO - In the midst of fresh San Francisco politics, Mayor Daniel Lurie is making some early adjustments, starting with the ousting of Communications Director Nina Negusse less than two months into his administration. Talk about a whirlwind!

While the exact reasons for Nina’s departure remain a mystery wrapped in an enigma, it’s rumored that pushback from department heads was a major factor. The administration seems to have rolled out some new rules that had city officials under tighter wraps, aiming to consolidate power as if they were all set to win the ultimate game of Monopoly. According to sources, the communications team was coming off as something between overly sensitive and a micromanager. That sounds like a real party, doesn’t it?

Replacing Negusse is Han Zou, Lurie’s former campaign manager and current public affairs director. Zou made waves during the campaign with impressive voter outreach among the Asian American community, effectively knocking down doors and shaking hands, real grassroots stuff that stands in stark contrast to lobbying dinners with the 1%.

In a statement released by Press Secretary Charles Lutvak, it was noted: “Nina was a valued member of our team… we appreciate her contributions…” Sounds like classic political speak for “don’t let the door hit you on the way out!” Meanwhile, it appears excitement is spreading for Zou’s expanded role, even if it feels a bit like the administration is throwing him to the wolves.

Negusse isn’t new to the political game; she previously played it at the SF Public Utilities Commission and even saw the inside of the Elections Department. Yet, despite her pedigree, the fresh direction may have been a bit too intense for her to navigate, leading to the quickest exit since the last tech company’s failed IPO.

Those of us on the sidelines can’t help but wonder how this restructuring will impact the Lurie administration’s approach, especially when it comes to working with the various departments of San Francisco, which were likely quite accustomed to a different style of leadership. For the time being, though, the city gears up for what seems to be drama-worthy politics in a town already saturated with its share of theatricality. Grab your popcorn, folks. This show is just getting started!