Candidates Debate for Pelosi's Former Seat

Four candidates hoping to represent California’s 11th Congressional District participated in a debate at Golden Gate Park on Wednesday. The event provided voters with an opportunity to hear the candidates’ platforms as they compete to fill the seat previously held by Nancy Pelosi.

Who is Running?

The field of candidates includes familiar faces in San Francisco politics, as well as some newcomers. State Senator Scott Wiener and Supervisor Connie Chan are well-known to local voters. Also participating were attorney Marie Hurabiell, who was instrumental in the recall of former District Attorney Chesa Boudin, and Saikat Chakrabarti, the former Chief of Staff for U.S. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York.

Key Issues Discussed

Candidates addressed a range of critical issues facing San Francisco and the nation. Discussions centered on housing affordability, access to healthcare, and broader economic concerns. They outlined their approaches to tackling these challenges if elected to represent the district in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Voter Reactions and Priorities

Attendees like Susan Pfeifer expressed the desire for a representative who can balance local and national priorities. “People are running on national issues, and it’s tough because we want someone who will represent San Francisco first but also be able to vote and work on the national issues as well,” Pfeifer stated.

Pfeifer highlighted housing and healthcare as her primary concerns, and emphasized the importance of regaining Democratic control of Congress. “We have to fight the administration that’s there,” she said. “I want to win in November. I want Democrats to take back control of Congress.”

A Call for Responsiveness

Another voter, Julie Lane, advocated for a more responsive approach from elected officials. “Pay attention to what the people want not what the agenda wants,” Lane urged. “Don’t go where the money is. Go where the people need you.”