Candidates running for Nancy Pelosi's seat make their pitch to voters at debate

On Wednesday, some of the candidates hoping to take over Nancy Pelosi's seat in the U.S. House of Representatives held a debate at Golden Gate park. It was a chance to hear their views and what they will bring to the table as they represent San Francisco in the nation's capital.

Four candidates vying for the 11th Congressional seat made their best pitch. Some are well known to San Francisco such as State Senator Scott Weiner and Supervisor Connie Chan.

There were relative newcomers to the local political scene such as attorney Marie Hurabiell. She played a central role in the recall of former District Attorney Chesa Boudin. And Saikat Chakrabarti, who was the former Chief of Staff for Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the congresswoman from New York.

They talked about their stance on issues such as housing, healthcare and affordability. Susan Pfeifer thinks she knows who she's voting for but is still willing to hear the candidates out.

"People are running on national issues, and it's tough because we want someone who will represent San Francisco first but also be able to vote and work on the national issues as well," Pfeifer said.

For Pfeifer, housing and healthcare are her main concerns. She has been very active in the political process, volunteering her time on national campaigns, reaching out to voters in red territories. As a Democrat, her other top priority is to help shift the power of the house and senate in Washington D.C.

"We have to fight the administration that's there," she said. "That's the other thing. I want to win in November. I want Democrats to take back control of Congress. We need some intelligent people running the country again."

Other voters here at the debate agreed with her but Julie Lane would like to see a more measured approach by Democrats.

"Pay attention to what the people want not what the agenda wants," Lane said. "Don't go where the money is. Go where the people need you."