Supervisor Jackie Fielder was off for weeks before illness made public

A left-leaning politician in San Francisco took several weeks of absence before publicly announcing Monday her intention to take additional leave to get her health “stable.”

Jacqueline Fielder, a member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors representing District 9, addressed rumors of her potential resignation in a statement.

“She wants to regain stable health so she can thoughtfully and responsibly consider her options,” her office told ABC7 Eyewitness News in a statement announcing her leave of absence and addressing the condition of her mental health.

Fielder had already been absent for several weeks before her leave of absence was publicly disclosed, according to documents obtained by the outlet from the Clerk of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors.

Her office submitted requests to excuse her from Board of Supervisors meetings on March 17 and March 24, as well as from a committee meeting held two weeks ago.

Phil Matier, a journalist who has been covering the board for a while, noted that there is currently no defined timeline for Fielder’s return.

“Especially if it’s a medical situation. In the past, supervisors have taken up to 3 months in dealing with medical situations. It’s sort of a sensitive area,” he said.

Fielder represents Bernal Heights, Portola, and the Mission neighborhoods.

The clerk has yet to receive her official letter for a leave of absence.

The Mission District — Fielder’s constituency — continues to grapple with persistent challenges, including open drug use and homelessness. At the same time, a new law set to take effect next month could threaten the livelihoods of local street food vendors.

“It is always a concerned and she is part of the reason why we have a voice in city hall. Now that she is taking time to take of herself all we have and can continue to do is to be there and be loud and make sure our voices continue to be present,” said Rojas.

Fielder’s legislative aide said the office will remain active in serving the district despite her absence, emphasizing that staff will continue supporting residents and addressing community concerns.

However, they acknowledged that responsibilities such as attending board meetings and casting votes will be temporarily paused.

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