Nancy Pelosi, the outgoing speaker of the House and a historic figure in American politics, has taken a notable and unexpected role in the closely watched race to succeed her in Congress. As she prepares to retire, Pelosi has actively supported San Francisco Supervisor Connie Chan in the November runoff against state Senator Scott Wiener, two Democrats vying for the city’s highly prized congressional seat.
Pelosi’s involvement has drawn attention, as it is somewhat unusual for a departing veteran lawmaker to intervene so forcefully in her succession battle. Chan, a progressive and labor-backed candidate, gained momentum after Pelosi endorsed her in the final weeks before the primary election, which pushed Chan into second place behind Wiener. The November runoff between them is seen as highly competitive, with many analysts giving Wiener, considered the more moderate candidate, a slight edge.
Both candidates are seen as liberal and in agreement on most policy issues. Political observers note that Wiener and Chan would likely vote similarly on legislation, with minimal substantive differences. Jim Ross, a longtime San Francisco strategist, said the contest is unlikely to influence congressional dynamics significantly in the near term, as neither candidate yet holds substantial seniority in Washington.
Pelosi has leveraged her substantial fundraising network to assist Chan, helping to narrow Wiener’s financial lead. She has also appeared in campaign advertisements for Chan and provided strategic communications support. Chan’s campaign includes notable endorsements from figures such as Sen. Adam Schiff, former Sen. Barbara Boxer, and Rep. Zoe Lofgren. Wiener counts California Attorney General Rob Bonta and several House Democrats among his supporters, while Governor Gavin Newsom has notably declined to endorse either candidate.
The intense rivalry reflects long-standing characteristics of San Francisco politics, where personal and intra-party conflicts have often shaped local elections. Pelosi’s intervention has reportedly deepened some existing divisions among the city’s Democratic establishment. Some prominent donors and party figures have expressed surprise or discomfort over Pelosi’s role, questioning why she would devote political capital to opposing Wiener in her final months as speaker.
The San Francisco congressional seat in question has not been open since Pelosi’s initial election in 1987, underscoring the rarity and importance of this election. Historically, only three individuals have held the seat since 1964, and winning it is considered nearly a guaranteed long-term tenure in Congress. Both candidates stand poised to make history: Wiener would be the city’s first openly LGBTQ+ congressional representative, while Chan would be the first Asian American to hold the seat.
Despite the high-profile nature of the race and Pelosi’s active involvement, political strategists suggest that her legacy remains firmly established and that this contest will represent little more than a minor chapter in her political biography. The runoff will determine which candidate begins a new era representing San Francisco in Congress starting in January.