Candidates Vie for Pelosi's Seat at Golden Gate Park Debate

Four contenders make their pitch to San Francisco voters ahead of the 11th Congressional District election.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 7:24am by Ben Kaplan

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Four candidates running to succeed Nancy Pelosi in the U.S. House of Representatives for California's 11th Congressional District held a debate in Golden Gate Park on Wednesday. The group included well-known local figures like State Senator Scott Weiner and Supervisor Connie Chan, as well as relative newcomers like attorney Marie Hurabiell and Saikat Chakrabarti, former Chief of Staff for Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. They discussed their stances on key issues like housing, healthcare, and affordability.

Why it matters

The race to fill Pelosi's long-held seat is seen as a critical contest that could help shift the balance of power in Congress. Voters in San Francisco are looking for a representative who will prioritize local concerns while also being able to effectively navigate national politics.

The details

The four candidates participating in the Golden Gate Park debate were State Senator Scott Weiner, Supervisor Connie Chan, attorney Marie Hurabiell, and Saikat Chakrabarti, former Chief of Staff for Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. They each made their pitch to voters on issues like housing affordability, healthcare access, and the need to counter the current presidential administration. Voter Susan Pfeifer said she is focused on housing and healthcare as her top priorities, while also wanting a representative who can help shift control of Congress. Another voter, Julie Lane, urged the candidates to pay attention to what the people want rather than just pursuing a partisan agenda.

  • The debate took place on Wednesday, April 2, 2026 in Golden Gate Park.

The players

Scott Weiner

A California State Senator representing parts of San Francisco.

Connie Chan

A member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors.

Marie Hurabiell

An attorney who played a central role in the recall of former District Attorney Chesa Boudin.

Saikat Chakrabarti

The former Chief of Staff for Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

Susan Pfeifer

A San Francisco voter focused on housing and healthcare issues, as well as shifting the balance of power in Congress.

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What they’re saying

“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.”

— Susan Pfeifer, San Francisco Voter

“We have to fight the administration that's there. That's the other thing. I want to win in November. I want Democrats to take back control of Congress. We need some intelligent people running the country again.”

— Susan Pfeifer, San Francisco Voter

“Pay attention to what the people want not what the agenda wants. Don't go where the money is. Go where the people need you.”

— Julie Lane, San Francisco Voter

What’s next

The candidates will continue campaigning ahead of the November election, with voters in San Francisco's 11th Congressional District set to choose their next representative in Congress.

The takeaway

This debate highlighted the diverse field of candidates vying to succeed the long-serving Nancy Pelosi, underscoring the importance of this race in shaping the future political landscape in San Francisco and Washington, D.C. Voters are seeking a representative who can balance local priorities with national influence.