Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) endorsed San Francisco Supervisor Connie Chan on May 18 to succeed her in California’s 11th Congressional District. The endorsement comes two weeks before the June 2 primary, where Chan will compete against Saikat Chakrabarti (a former aide to Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez) and state Sen. Scott Wiener.
Pelosi’s Support and Chan’s Background
Pelosi praised Chan in a video clip posted to Instagram, stating, "I know and love this district. I know the Congress, and I know Connie. I’m proud to endorse Democrat Connie Chan and ask you to join me in electing her to Congress." Chan, a member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, has also received backing from Sen. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) and other House Democrats. She emphasizes immigration reform, labor protections, and healthcare expansion, including support for transgender healthcare and Affordable Care Act (ACA) enhancements.
The Competitive Race
Chan is currently polling behind Wiener but ahead of Chakrabarti, who has criticized Pelosi’s leadership. The race will proceed under California’s jungle primary system, where the top two vote-getters advance to the November general election if no candidate secures over 50% of the vote. Pelosi, who has held the seat since 1987, is retiring after 40 years in Congress.
Policy and Political Implications
Chan’s campaign focuses on worker protections, wage increases, and combating ICE policies, while Wiener and Chakrabarti offer contrasting visions. Wiener is the most well-known candidate, while Chakrabarti aligns with progressive factions. Pelosi’s endorsement carries significant weight in San Francisco politics, potentially shaping the race’s outcome.