Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is finding out that political endorsements do not carry the same weight they once did.
After nearly 40 years representing San Francisco in Congress, Pelosi announced she will retire when her current term ends in January 2027. This week, she made one of her most closely watched political moves by endorsing Connie Chan in the race to replace her.
Instead of uniting Democrats, Pelosi’s decision sparked a fierce backlash from moderates, housing advocates, technology leaders, and even members of the progressive left.
For many observers, the reaction was a striking reminder that voters are increasingly frustrated with establishment politics and are demanding leaders focused on real-world solutions.
Nancy Pelosi Endorses Connie Chan
Pelosi released a short campaign video praising Chan and urging San Francisco voters to support her bid for Congress.
“I know this district, I know the Congress, and I know Connie.”
Chan has built strong ties with organized labor and progressive activists, but she has also drawn criticism for opposing several housing reforms and permitting changes aimed at making it easier to build new homes.
Those positions have made her a controversial figure in a city struggling with high housing costs, rising concerns about public safety, and ongoing frustration with government bureaucracy.
Backlash Erupts Across San Francisco
The endorsement quickly ignited criticism from across San Francisco’s political spectrum.
Housing advocates argued that Pelosi backed a candidate associated with policies that have worsened the city’s affordability crisis. Technology leaders and business voices said the decision reflected the same old political approach that many voters believe has failed.
Even some progressive activists expressed disappointment, saying the endorsement reinforced the grip of longtime political insiders rather than encouraging fresh leadership.
The unusually broad criticism suggested Pelosi’s influence in local politics may be weaker than it once was.
Scott Wiener Remains the Front-Runner
Scott Wiener continues to lead the race and has built a strong reputation for advancing housing reform and other high-profile legislation in Sacramento.
Polling indicates Wiener holds a substantial lead, while Chan and Saikat Chakrabarti are competing closely for second place.
Political observers also noted that Pelosi’s decision to bypass Wiener may reflect longstanding tensions within San Francisco’s Democratic establishment.
Critics Say Pelosi Is Out of Touch
Many local commentators argued that Pelosi, after decades focused on Washington, is no longer closely connected to the issues affecting everyday San Franciscans.
Concerns over crime, housing costs, homelessness, and business closures have transformed the city’s political conversation.
For critics, the endorsement symbolized a political class that appears increasingly disconnected from voters who want accountability and practical reforms.
Establishment Politics Faces Growing Resistance
Chakrabarti dismissed the significance of major endorsements and said grassroots support will ultimately decide the race.
His message echoed a broader sentiment among voters who are skeptical of corporate donors, political insiders, and top-down influence.
That frustration is not unique to San Francisco. Across the country, Americans are showing greater willingness to challenge entrenched political figures and support candidates who promise meaningful change.
June 2 Primary Could Mark a Turning Point
The June 2 primary will determine who advances in one of the nation’s most closely watched congressional races.
Pelosi’s endorsement was intended to shape the future of her longtime seat. Instead, it has intensified debate about whether San Francisco voters are ready to move beyond the city’s traditional power structure.
For conservatives, the controversy offers another example of how establishment politicians can misread the public mood.
Whether Connie Chan benefits from Pelosi’s backing or is hurt by the backlash, the response has made one thing clear: endorsements alone are no longer enough to guarantee success.