The first of a series of debates between Sups. Scott Wiener and Jane Kim, who are both seeking a state Senate seat, set the tone for the race last night, with some sharp difference on policy issues and a few sharp elbows....

And the essential message came from Kim at the end: “There are plenty of moderate Democrats in Sacramento,” she said. “The last thing San Francisco should do is send another moderate to the Legislature.”...

Kim talked about how San Francisco has always been a city of refuge, a place for people who are different, who have been forced to leave their families, who wanted a chance to live their lives in a supportive world. “But people can’t afford to come to a city of refuge anymore.”...

So we are starting to see this campaign emerge. The June primary is only round one, and both of the candidates know it. In the fall, Kim will say that San Francisco needs to send someone to Sacramento who will push the envelope and lead the way on progressive issues. Wiener will say that moderates get things done.