Chavez-Lopez is currently the executive director of the Latina Coalition of Silicon Valley, while Tordillos serves as the chair of the San Jose Planning Commission. Both candidates emerged as top contenders from a crowded April 8 special election that included five other hopefuls. The dual endorsement they received at that time remains intact, a stance that is being reinforced by party leadership as consistent with Democratic procedures when no single candidate secures the necessary majority support.
According to Bill James, chair of the Santa Clara County Democratic Party, a sole endorsement requires a two-thirds consensus among Central Committee members. When that threshold is not met, and support is split, the committee has the option to endorse more than one candidate. James noted that while not typical, dual endorsements do occur, especially in open seat scenarios where multiple Democrats are running. District 3 became vacant under unusual circumstances following the resignation and criminal charges faced by former Councilmember Omar Torres. Torres resigned on Election Day last November and later pleaded no contest to charges related to alleged child sexual abuse. He faces a potential sentence of up to 24 years.
James explained that such a scenario creates a complex dynamic where multiple Democratic candidates may garner significant but divided support, leading to a shared endorsement. This is what unfolded in the case of Chavez-Lopez and Tordillos. Despite now being in direct competition, both candidates continue to publicly support and promote the Democratic Party’s dual backing.
Chavez-Lopez expressed pride in retaining the party’s support, highlighting her alignment with core Democratic values and emphasizing her broad experience on a variety of district-wide issues. She pointed out that her focus goes beyond housing policy, touching on downtown revitalization and city governance. She also emphasized her unique status as the only candidate endorsed by the South Bay Labor Council, which represents a major coalition of labor unions in the area. Her campaign remains centered on addressing systemic challenges within the district and maintaining momentum from the special election.
Tordillos, who holds a planning leadership role and has played a significant part in shaping development policies in the city, also welcomes the dual endorsement. Though less vocal about it publicly, his platform appeals to similar Democratic values, with an emphasis on urban planning, equity, and responsive governance.
The continuation of a dual endorsement suggests that the Democratic Party is more focused on promoting shared values and broad representation than on narrowing internal competition, at least in races where no ethical or procedural conflicts exist. In this case, both candidates have clean records and offer platforms that align closely with party priorities.
As the June 24 election approaches, both Chavez-Lopez and Tordillos will intensify efforts to differentiate themselves among voters. However, the party's stance may also work in their favor by reinforcing their legitimacy and appeal to the Democratic base. It remains to be seen which candidate will ultimately prevail, but the dual endorsement signals that either would be acceptable to party leadership and to many of its grassroots members.
While some voters might find the dual endorsement confusing or even frustrating, others may appreciate the transparency of party dynamics and the democratic process within the Central Committee. The endorsement also allows the community to assess candidates based on merit and vision, rather than party pressure.
This race is one of several closely watched contests in the region, and the outcome could have long-term implications for city policy in areas like affordable housing, homelessness, infrastructure, and civic engagement in downtown San Jose. With both candidates maintaining strong backing and public support, District 3 residents will play a critical role in determining the city’s political direction in the years to come.
