Congressional
Candidate
Forum
Local voters meet the 2026 candidates for California 11th Congressional District — questioned by the journalists who cover our communities.
Our first forum was a packed house. Watch the full recording and share it with your community.
The Candidates
Saikat Chakrabarti
Former Chief of Staff to Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez
Connie Chan
SF Board of Supervisors, District 1
Scott Wiener
California State Senator, District 11
Ben Trefny
Executive Producer, KALW
Our coalition of neighborhood and community publications will be asking tough questions that directly affect the people of San Francisco.
What to Expect
The San Francisco Independent Media Coalition is proud to present its first Congressional Candidate Forum, where local voters can learn more about the 2026 candidates for California 11th Congressional District.
This event is meant to center questions that matter to San Franciscans — asked by the reporters who cover your neighborhoods, your communities, and your daily lives.
The SFIMC is an alliance of San Francisco-based independent media outlets that directly serve local neighborhoods and ethnic communities across the city. Together, our member publications reach hundreds of thousands of San Francisco residents in multiple languages.
What’s at Stake
Immigration. San Francisco values exist to protect those who need it most. How do we best protect our neighbors and communities?
Housing & Cost of Living. San Francisco faces a deepening housing crisis. How will the next representative address affordability, displacement, and the construction of new homes?
Public Safety & Justice. From policing reform to drug policy, residents are divided on how to balance safety with civil liberties. Where do the candidates stand?
Local Media & Democracy. As newsrooms shrink, community information gaps widen. What role should Congress play in supporting local journalism and combating misinformation?
How to Engage
Submit a question. Email your question for candidates to [email protected] and our coalition journalists may ask it at the forum.
Follow the coverage. Coalition members will publish reporting before and after the forum — follow your local publication for the full picture.
Share with your neighbors. This forum is free and open to all San Francisco residents. Spread the word in your community.
Support local news. Subscribe to and support the coalition member publications covering your neighborhood. Independent journalism depends on community support.
Local journalism holds candidates accountable.
Over 250 San Franciscans attended our first Congressional Candidate Forum. Watch the recording and share it with your community.