Scott Wiener wins the race to succeed Nancy Pelosi in Congress

California state Sen. Scott Wiener won the race for San Francisco’s seat in the U.S. House, according to a Friday call by the Associated Press. The Democrat will succeed Nancy Pelosi, who was first elected to Congress in 1987 and became the first woman to serve as House speaker.

Wiener had about 55% of votes counted in the AP tally published by KQED when the race was called at 8:25 a.m. Pacific. San Francisco Supervisor Connie Chan, also a Democrat, conceded Wednesday. Pelosi congratulated Wiener and said her office would help with the transition.

How two Democrats reached the general election

California sends the two candidates with the most votes in a congressional primary to the general election regardless of party preference. Wiener and Chan took the top two spots in the June primary. Both pitched ways to lower housing costs, one of the central issues in their race.

Wiener emphasized making it easier to build homes. In the state Senate he authored Senate Bill 79, which allows more housing near qualifying transit stops. Chan told KQED she would seek to lift a federal limit on expanding public housing and increase access to rental vouchers and affordable housing financing.

The count continues

The AP call reflects the news organization’s assessment of the votes counted and those still outstanding. Election officials continue to process eligible ballots. California is scheduled to certify its statewide election results on Dec. 11.