(KRON) — San Francisco Supervisor Connie Chan conceded the race for California's 11th Congressional District on Wednesday, congratulating state Sen. Scott Wiener on his election victory as House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi and Wiener issued statements reflecting on the race and the historic transition.
Wiener takes commanding lead over Chan in race to fill Pelosi’s seat
After reviewing preliminary results and the ballots remaining to be counted, Chan said she did not see a clear path to victory, although she expected the margin to narrow significantly.
"I congratulate Scott Wiener on his election and wish him success in serving San Francisco," Chan said in a statement.
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Chan thanked her campaign staff, volunteers, supporters, labor organizations and Pelosi, who had endorsed her campaign.
She also emphasized that the issues central to her campaign, including housing affordability, immigrant rights and workers' rights, would remain priorities beyond the election.
"The families struggling to stay in San Francisco, the immigrants living in fear and the workers demanding a voice still need us to stand together," Chan said.
Pelosi, who has represented San Francisco in Congress for nearly four decades, praised Chan's campaign and said her work would have an impact beyond the election.
"Connie Chan brought courage, conviction and a deep love for San Francisco to this campaign," Pelosi said. "As a working mom, a public servant, and an immigrant, she gave voice to families whose struggles she knows firsthand."
Pelosi also congratulated Wiener, saying her office was ready to assist with the transition.
"Representing San Francisco is an extraordinary honor and a profound responsibility," Pelosi said.
Wiener thanked San Francisco voters for their support and acknowledged Chan's campaign, describing the race as spirited and hard-fought.
"We've had our disagreements, but we share a deep love for San Francisco and for our country," Wiener said.
Wiener also highlighted the historic significance of his election. He will become the first LGBTQ person to represent San Francisco in Congress and the first LGBTQ member of the House to represent any part of Northern California, according to his statement.
Wiener said he was humbled to carry forward the legacy of the congressional seat, which has been held by Phil Burton, Sala Burton and Pelosi.
Looking ahead, Wiener outlined several priorities, including building more housing, expanding health care access, investing in clean energy and public transit, protecting immigrants and holding the federal government accountable.
"San Franciscans voted for results, and we have so much work ahead," Wiener said.
He also pointed to what he described as a strong election mandate for Democrats in Congress, saying he plans to focus on lowering the cost of living, government accountability and addressing the impact of artificial intelligence.
Chan closed her statement by thanking supporters and pledging to remain involved in the issues that shaped her campaign.
"This election has ended, but our movement and our commitment to one another carries forward. I will be right there with you," she said.
