San Francisco Supervisor Connie Chan and state Sen. Scott Wiener outlined differing approaches to housing and other key issues during a recent forum for candidates vying to represent California’s 11th Congressional District. The candidates also addressed foreign policy, revealing sharp divisions on the conflict in Gaza.
Focus on Housing Affordability
Each candidate identified housing as a top priority. Wiener, a proponent of easing development restrictions, emphasized the need for increased housing production of all types. He has championed laws in Sacramento aimed at streamlining the building process, garnering support from groups like Yes In My Backyard.
“We need a lot more housing of all varieties. Period. Full stop,” Wiener said. “The federal government used to play a large role in housing in this country, and then it stopped right as homelessness boomed.”
Chan countered that the focus should be on affordable housing, criticizing the construction of luxury condominiums. She advocated for amending and repealing the Faircloth Law, a 1998 federal law that limits funding for public housing. Chan also recently sought to preserve rent-controlled units during San Francisco’s recent rezoning plan, though her amendment ultimately failed.
“One of the best ways to solve homelessness is to make sure people can stay housed and preserve the rent control housing units we have,” Chan said.
Saikat Chakrabarti, another candidate in the race, also called for repealing the Faircloth Amendment and proposed a national housing plan focused on streamlining financing and stockpiling construction supplies.
Differing Views on Foreign Policy
The candidates also diverged on foreign policy during a round of lightning questions. When asked if Israel is committing a genocide in Gaza, both Chan and Chakrabarti responded affirmatively. Wiener, who is Jewish, did not respond, drawing boos from the audience.
Other Key Issues
Chan stated she would target President Donald Trump’s attempts to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education and attacks on trans youth in school systems. “We need to make safe learning environments for the trans and LGBTQ community,” she said.
Referencing her work as the city’s budget chair, Chan also said she would seek more funding for schools and community health clinics as alternatives to large healthcare companies.
All three candidates agreed on banning members of Congress from owning or trading stocks, supporting Medicare for All, and building the state’s high-speed rail without federal funding.
The primary election is scheduled for June, with a general election to follow in November 2026.
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