As the 2022 election season enters its final quarter, the San Francisco 49ers – whose money boosted prior campaigns in both San Jose this spring and Santa Clara in 2020 – may be staying on the sidelines.

This evening marks the Santa Clara City Council’s first discussion about whether to replace Sellers by appointment or special election.

Sylvia Arenas finished 88 votes ahead of Jimmy Nguyen in San Jose’s D8 council race, one of six local contests that may require a recount.

Elected officials in Santa Clara can’t get on the same page over alcohol sales, mirroring the efforts of the city’s beleaguered football team.