San Jose’s 2026 election cycle is already shaping up to be competitive, with the first round of campaign finance reports revealing a clear fundraising leader in the open race for District 9. Overall, candidates across the city’s five districts – 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 – have collectively raised tens of thousands of dollars.
District 9: A Wide-Open Race
With Vice Mayor Pam Foley terming out, District 9 is the only seat without an incumbent running for reelection. Genny Altwer, a licensed marriage and family therapist, currently leads in fundraising with $71,719 raised as of December 31, including a $15,000 loan to her own campaign. Scott Hughes, Foley’s chief of staff, has raised $41,539, while local entrepreneur Mike Hennessy has secured $23,675. Gordon Chester, a longtime city employee, has raised $2,835.
Altwer framed her fundraising success as a sign of dissatisfaction with the status quo, stating, “City Hall insiders haven’t delivered for our communities, and this support clearly shows that our neighbors have had enough.” Hughes expressed confidence in his campaign’s momentum, citing his experience working within the community. Hennessy highlighted an endorsement from state Sen. Dave Cortese, and Chester emphasized the importance of grassroots organizing, noting 20 new volunteers joined his campaign in a single day.
Competitive Races in Districts 5 and 7
In District 7, Councilmember Bien Doan faces challenges from Van Le, an East Side Union High School District trustee, and City Hall staffer Hanh-Giao Nguyen. Le leads in fundraising with $65,217, including $19,800 in self-loans. Doan has raised $23,746, while Nguyen has brought in $6,950. Doan attributed his lower fundraising total to a recent family medical emergency.
The race in District 7 is marked by existing tensions. Last year, Le threatened a defamation suit against Doan following accusations of improper use of school facilities, and Nguyen publicly heckled Doan during a council meeting, leading to a call for her termination from Doan.
District 5 is poised for a rematch between incumbent Peter Ortiz and Nora Campos, a former councilmember and state lawmaker. Ortiz has raised $98,761, significantly more than Campos’ $17,550. Local education leader Karen Martinez has raised $13,779, and broadcast journalist Vy Dang has raised $4,500.
Incumbents Face No Opposition (So Far)
Councilmember Anthony Tordillos in District 3 and Rosemary Kamei in District 1 are currently running unopposed. Tordillos, who won his seat in a special election following the resignation of Omar Torres amid scandal, has raised $34,644. Kamei has raised $13,847 and expressed optimism about her campaign’s broad support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which district has the only open seat?
District 9 is the only district with an open seat, as Vice Mayor Pam Foley is terming out this year.
Who is currently leading in fundraising in District 9?
Genny Altwer is currently leading in fundraising in District 9, with $71,719 raised as of December 31.
Are any incumbents facing no opposition?
Yes, Councilmember Anthony Tordillos in District 3 and Rosemary Kamei in District 1 are currently running unopposed.
As the March 6 filing deadline approaches, will these fundraising leads translate into electoral success, or will other factors shift the balance of power in San Jose’s City Council?