Could the next AOC emerge from San Francisco?

The Hill

by William Liang, opinion contributor

February 13, 2026

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Could the next AOC emerge from San Francisco?

The race for San Francisco's congressional seat is heating up as a tech-savvy progressive takes on an entrenched Democratic incumbent in a high-stakes political showdown. This contest has emerged as a pivotal moment in the broader national debate over the future direction of the Democratic Party, with one candidate advocating for bold progressive reforms and the other relying on decades of experience and establishment support. The challenger is a young tech entrepreneur who gained fame through their innovative work in the industry, bringing fresh energy to the race. They are pushing for sweeping changes, including major investments in renewable energy and criminal justice reform. This candidate argues that the Democratic Party needs to embrace a new era of leadership that prioritizes innovation and grassroots activism over traditional political tactics. Meanwhile, the incumbent has served in Congress for years, building a reputation as a reliable party leader. Their campaign is backed by a robust network of donors, including influential developers and business groups. This candidate emphasizes their track record of delivering results and maintaining bipartisan cooperation, highlighting their experience as a key asset in navigating the complexities of national politics. The outcome of this race could have significant implications for the Democratic Party's strategy moving forward. If the progressive challenger wins, it would signal a shift toward more radical policies within the party. Conversely, a victory for the incumbent could reinforce the importance of experienced leadership and pragmatic deal-making in Congress. Given San Francisco's status as a political and cultural hub, this race is attracting national attention. Political analysts are closely watching whether the tech-savvy progressive can unseat the establishment candidate and set a precedent for future elections. The stakes are high, with both sides framing the contest as a referendum on the party's direction. For readers interested in politics, this race offers a fascinating case

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Originally published on The Hill on 2/13/2026