[1] The site, later known as Symphony Park,[2] inspired Goodman to seek re-election: "That 61 acres is really my vision and the primary reason why I ran again.

[6] Goodman viewed homelessness as an obstruction to downtown redevelopment, and was criticized for his stance on the issue, deemed by some as too harsh.

Goodman, a criminal defense attorney known for his representation of mob figures, previously said that he had only professional relationships with such people.

His proposals included a Golden Gate Bridge replica and an 18-story mixed-use building housing grocery stores and a shopping mall, as well as office and residential space.

Other candidates included Joe Falco, a car salesman; and Carlos "Mazunga" Poliak, a sanitation worker who had made several failed runs for local office.

[7] Goodman won with nearly 86 percent of the vote,[7][9] a record surpassing Jan Jones' 72-percent victory in the 1995 mayoral election.