Amidst national economic concerns, San Francisco residents prioritized addressing "chaos and lawlessness" and rejecting the progressive left's influence, according to local activists. In a move that has sparked discussion, the San Francisco Department of Public Health recently brought on Virgie Tovar, a self-proclaimed "anti-weight-based discrimination" expert, to consult on "weight stigma and weight neutrality."

Tovar, author of "You Have the Right to Remain Fat" and a prominent voice in the "fat positivity and body acceptance" movement, announced the consultancy on Instagram, expressing her enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to her city. Her website describes her as a "plus-size Latina author, lecturer, and leading expert on weight-based discrimination and body positivity" with extensive experience. She also contributes to Forbes, covering the "plus size market."

The exact nature of Tovar's role within the department remains unclear, as the San Francisco Department of Public Health has not responded to inquiries for details. Tovar has been a vocal critic of diet culture and BMI metrics, sharing her personal experiences with medical professionals and weight loss pressures. She has advocated for reducing conversations about food, bodies, and exercise in the workplace to minimize potential stigma.

In addition, Tovar publicly declined a free offer of the weight-loss drug Ozempic, stating that it would not address the underlying issue of weight bias. She has also expressed criticism of classifying obesity as a disease. Tovar's website indicates she provides DEI corporate trainings, with past clients including the Seattle Transit Agency and UC Berkeley. Attempts to reach Tovar for comment have been unsuccessful.