California Congressional Primary Results
State Senator Scott Wiener, a Democrat from California, has solidified his position as the leading candidate in the primary for the 11th Congressional District. This race aims to fill the vacancy left by the retiring Representative Nancy Pelosi.
In the primary held on Tuesday, Wiener garnered 43.4% of the vote amid a competitive field that included eight Democrats, two Republicans, and one candidate with no party affiliation. Following him was Progressive City Supervisor Connie Chan with 28.5%, and tech entrepreneur Saikat Chakrabarti, who received 14.9% before announcing his concession.
“The people of San Francisco sent a very clear message. San Franciscans are ready for bold forward-looking leadership, for real results, and a new generation of leaders that isn’t afraid to take on the toughest fights facing our country,” Wiener told his supporters during an election night event in the Castro district.
“Tonight is an important milestone. But this campaign is not over. We have five more months. We’re going to continue building a broad coalition across every neighborhood, every generation, every background, and every community in San Francisco,” he continued.
Given California’s top-two primary system, both Wiener and Chan will progress to the general election in November. This contest has attracted significant attention as it determines Pelosi’s successor, following her nearly 40-year career in Congress.
Pelosi commented in May, “At a time when fundamental freedoms and democratic values are under assault, we need a leader in Congress who is prepared to fight — forcefully and effectively,” when she endorsed Chan.
Wiener has been a state senator since 2016, representing San Francisco and parts of San Mateo County, and has previously served on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. Throughout his time in office, he has championed various controversial progressive legislations. He entered this primary with the backing of the California Democratic Party.
The approaching November election will see Wiener’s supporters facing off against Chan, who will need to rally progressive voters and expand her appeal beyond her established political base to secure victory.
