Chan and Wiener Shifted Stance on Israel Arms
The congressional candidates outlined their foreign policy positions during a televised debate on October 1.
Updated on Oct. 3, 2026 in Elections
Live Poll
Should the U.S. maintain its current level of military support for Israel?
Democratic candidates Connie Chan and Scott Wiener have staked out new positions regarding military aid to Israel during their campaign for California's 11th congressional district. Both candidates signaled a departure from traditional funding stances in response to ongoing conflict in Gaza and the West Bank.
Why it matters
As the November election approaches, voters in the 11th District are weighing how the incoming representative will approach foreign military policy. The shift marks a notable development in the race to succeed longtime representative Nancy Pelosi.
The race for the 11th District includes 435 total House seats at stake in November, with candidates citing reports of 9 Americans killed in the West Bank as a driver for their policy shifts.
The players
Connie Chan
A San Francisco supervisor and Democratic candidate for the 11th congressional district.
Scott Wiener
A California state senator running for the 11th congressional district seat.
Nancy Pelosi
The current 11th district representative who is not seeking re-election.
The details
During a televised debate, San Francisco Supervisor Connie Chan called for a full arms embargo on Israel and stated she would oppose funding for the Iron Dome. State Senator Scott Wiener similarly announced his opposition to providing offensive weapons and described the assault on Gaza as a genocide. Both candidates are campaigning for the seat currently held by Nancy Pelosi, who is not seeking re-election.
Timeline
October 1, 2026: Candidates participated in a televised debate.
November 2026: Midterm elections will occur.
Across the Bay
These policy announcements mark a departure from the established party orthodoxy previously associated with the 11th District's congressional representation. The shift aligns with an evolving trend of candidates in the region defining their platforms through international policy stances.
Voters will make their final decision on the 11th District seat during the November election. Residents should watch for upcoming mail-in ballot materials and local candidate forums as the date approaches.
The takeaway
Voters should note that both candidates have explicitly tied their platforms to recent conflicts in Gaza and the West Bank. Follow the final weeks of the campaign to see if further details on foreign military aid are provided before the November vote.
Further reading
For more on the upcoming November contests, visit the San Francisco Elections section.
Live Poll
Should the U.S. maintain its current level of military support for Israel?
