Incumbent state Sen. Scott Wiener is set to retain his seat in California Senate District 11, holding a decisive lead of 78% of the vote over Republican challenger Yvette Corkrean’s 22.1%, according to initial election results.
In a text message to this news organization, Wiener expressed gratitude to his supporters.
“From the bottom of my heart, thank you to the voters of San Francisco and northern San Mateo for reelecting me to the Senate,” Wiener said. “We have so much work ahead to protect our democracy, build more homes, strengthen our public transportation systems, enact strong climate action, protect our basic freedoms, and so much more. Thank you for placing your trust in me.”
District 11 includes all of San Francisco and parts of San Mateo County, covering Daly City, Colma, and Broadmoor.
Known for his initiatives to streamline affordable housing production, Wiener also authored the “Frontier Artificial Intelligence Models Act” (SB 1047), a controversial bill aimed at regulating AI to prevent potential catastrophes and terrorist threats. Although it passed both houses of the state legislature, the bill was ultimately vetoed by Gov. Gavin Newsom.
Wiener, a self-identified progressive, also posted on X on Tuesday his feelings on Donald Trump and the GOP’s victories in national elections, reflecting on what this shift means for California, a liberal Democratic stronghold.
“Trump is back. His allies control the Senate. The House is in flux,” Wiener said. “There will be intense debate over why this happened, but here we are.”
He vowed that California will “fight to protect our democracy, our freedoms, and the basic dignity of all people. California won’t roll over for fascism.”
Wiener’s campaign has focused on expanding access to healthcare, particularly mental health and addiction treatment. He currently chairs the Senate Housing Committee and is Co-Chair of the California Legislative Jewish Caucus as well as Chair of the Senate Mental Health Caucus.
Originally from New Jersey, Wiener graduated from Duke University and earned a law degree from Harvard Law School. Before his election to the Senate, he served on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, representing the same district once held by Supervisor Harvey Milk.
Corkrean, a registered nurse and vocal critic of progressive politics in San Francisco, shared her gratitude on X, thanking her supporters.
“The support I received from my grassroots campaign has left me with greater hope for the future of San Francisco,” Corkrean wrote. “No matter the outcome, running for the CA Senate has been an honor and privilege.”