Nancy Pelosi has announced she will retire from Congress, triggering a wide- open race to succeed her in California’s 11th district (San Francisco). While the exact candidate lineup can shift as campaigns formalize, several names had begun emerging as leading contenders for the seat, including state Senator Scott Wiener and Connie Chan, along with other local figures and even Pelosi family connections sometimes discussed as possibilities. The primary dynamics will hinge on California’s jungle primary system, where all candidates appear on a single ballot, and the top two vote-getters advance to the general election, potentially resulting in two Democrats facing off in 2026 for the seat. Key points to watch
- The jungle primary in California means nonpartisan competition can yield multiple Democrats advancing, or even a crossover with a Republican in a historically Democratic district. This structure was already shaping expectations for the 2026 primary and general election.
- Early frontrunners and obvious names include California state Senator Scott Wiener and Connie Chan, with other SF figures and Pelosi-connected candidates sometimes mentioned as possibilities. Endorsements, fundraising, and local party backing will influence early momentum.
- Local media and national outlets emphasized that Pelosi’s retirement could become a proxy fight over the direction of the Democratic Party in San Francisco and a test of generational leadership for Congress.
If you want, I can check the latest developments and provide a updated, concise list of declared candidates and key endorsements from reliable sources.