San Jose City Council Elections: A Looming Shift in Power & Focus on Affordability
San Jose is bracing for a pivotal election year in 2026, with five of the eleven City Council seats up for grabs. The upcoming races aren’t just about local representation; they’re shaping up to be a defining moment for the city’s future, particularly regarding the increasingly urgent issue of affordability. As San José Spotlight reports, political observers predict a campaign season heavily influenced by residents’ financial struggles, with the potential to dramatically alter the balance of power within City Hall. This is a breaking news development that could reshape San Jose’s political landscape.
The Battlegrounds: Districts 1, 3, 5, 7 & 9
The focus will be on districts 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9. Four incumbents – Romero Kamei, Antonio Tordillos, Peter Ortiz, and Doan – are seeking re-election. Tordillos, however, faces a unique situation, having won his seat in a special election following the resignation of Omar Torres amidst a serious scandal. A full term win would solidify his position, but the shadow of the past will undoubtedly linger.
District 9 stands out as the only open race, with Vice Mayor Pam Foley stepping down. A crowded field of candidates has already emerged, including Scott Hughes (Foley’s chief of staff), Gordon Chester (a long-time city employee), Genny Altwer (a licensed therapist and business owner), and Mike Hennessy. This race is particularly crucial, as it represents a clear opportunity for change.
Incumbent Challenges & Potential Rematches
The incumbents aren’t facing an easy path. In District 7, Doan will contend with Van Le, a member of the East Side Union High School District board, and Hanh-Giao Nguyen, a City Hall staff member. Meanwhile, District 5 could see a rematch between Ortiz and Nora Campos, a former councilwoman and state legislator who narrowly lost to Ortiz in 2022. Adding another layer to the competition, local education leader Karen Martínez has also entered the race.
The Stakes: A Pro-Business Majority on the Line?
The outcome of these elections could have significant implications for Mayor Matt Mahan’s agenda. Currently, the City Council leans pro-business, enabling Mahan to pursue policies aimed at reducing homelessness, expanding accommodation, and addressing perceived “laziness” (a phrasing that has drawn criticism). However, a shift in the council’s composition – particularly a win for a labor-backed candidate in District 9 – could jeopardize this majority.
Evergreen Insight: The dynamic between pro-business and labor interests is a common thread in many city governments. Understanding these underlying tensions is key to interpreting local political developments. Historically, San Jose has navigated a complex relationship between tech industry growth and the needs of its working-class residents.
Budget Concerns & Voter Priorities
Adding to the urgency, San Jose is facing a projected budget deficit of $52.9 million for the coming year. This financial strain is likely to fuel contentious budget negotiations and further amplify voters’ concerns. A recent public opinion survey revealed that homelessness remains the top priority for residents (cited by 25%), followed closely by affordability, public safety, and street conditions. However, experts anticipate that affordability will gain even more prominence in the political discourse as the cost of living continues to rise.
Evergreen Insight: Budget deficits are a recurring challenge for cities, particularly those experiencing rapid growth. Effective budget management and transparent communication with the public are crucial for maintaining trust and ensuring essential services are maintained.
Business & Labor Weigh In
Business leaders, through organizations like the Silicon Valley Business PAC, are prioritizing “pro-development candidates” who will streamline the housing construction process. They argue that easing regulatory burdens is essential for stimulating the local economy and addressing the housing shortage. Meanwhile, the South Bay Labor Council is emphasizing the need for leadership that will address the economic pressures facing working families.
Democrats are also energized, citing higher-than-expected turnout in a recent special election as a sign of renewed engagement. They see the upcoming elections as an opportunity to counter recent losses and respond to national political trends.
This election isn’t just about local issues; it’s a microcosm of the broader political currents shaping California and the nation. The choices San Jose voters make in 2026 will reverberate far beyond City Hall, impacting the city’s economic future, social fabric, and political direction. Stay tuned to archyde.com for continued coverage of these crucial races and the evolving dynamics of San Jose politics. For more in-depth reporting, visit San José Spotlight.
