Martha Abraham continues to lead incumbent Henry Foster III in the San Diego City Council District 4 race, according to the latest detailed vote totals published by NBC 7.

Abraham, a neonatal intensive care unit nurse and political newcomer, has received 12,258 votes, or 53.46%, compared with 10,673 votes, or 46.54%, for Foster. That puts Abraham ahead by 1,585 votes.

The results remain unofficial as San Diego County election officials continue counting ballots. The county's next results update is scheduled for 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 5, with additional updates planned for Friday, Nov. 6, and Monday, Nov. 9. The official canvass is expected to be completed by Dec. 3.

A closely watched District 4 contest

The race represents a significant challenge to Foster, who took office in 2024 after winning a special election. Abraham finished just 12 votes behind him in the June primary before advancing to the November general election.

District 4 includes southeastern San Diego neighborhoods such as Encanto, Skyline, Paradise Hills, Oak Park, Lincoln Park, Chollas View, Valencia Park and Webster. Although the district does not include La Jolla, its councilmember has a vote on citywide policies affecting residents throughout San Diego.

Abraham entered the race as a community activist with a background in nursing. She became involved in local politics through opposition to development proposals in the district and has argued that City Hall needs to do more to address public health, infrastructure and economic disparities.

Foster, a former construction industry professional, has emphasized his experience in public service and his work on issues affecting District 4. He has also been a prominent critic of the city's use of automated license plate reader technology operated by Flock Safety.

The candidates have differed over development and public safety, including the city's approach to surveillance technology. Abraham has raised privacy concerns about license plate readers, while Foster has pushed to end the city's use of the technology.

What happens next

The vote totals could change as additional ballots are processed. San Diego County has said results remain unofficial until the completion of the canvass, which is due by Dec. 3.

Readers can follow the San Diego County Registrar of Voters for official election updates. NBC 7 is also tracking the San Diego City Council election results.

This article was updated Nov. 5, 2026, with the latest detailed vote totals available at the time of publication.