In a surprising announcement, Democratic Rep. Anna Eshoo declared her retirement after serving 16 terms and representing Silicon Valley in Congress. The news, initially reported by San Jose Spotlight, has set off a flurry of activity as potential successors prepare to enter the race to replace her in California's deep blue 16th District.

With the retirement of Eshoo, who was once described as "one of my dearest friends in the world" by Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, a crowded and expensive race is expected to take place. The top-two primary, scheduled for March 5 and coinciding with the state's presidential primary, will determine the candidates who will compete in the general election on November 5.

Considering the district's strong Democratic lean, it is highly likely that both spots in the general election will be claimed by Democratic candidates. In the 2020 election, Joe Biden secured a resounding victory, winning over this Bay Area constituency by a margin of 75-22.

This race poses a tight timeline for potential candidates to decide and enter the fray. While the candidate filing deadline is set for December 8, an unusual state law grants them an extended period until December 13 in races where no incumbent files for reelection.

One Democratic politician, Santa Clara County Supervisor Joe Simitian, seems ready to jump into the race without hesitation. Simitian, who already possesses a substantial war chest of $680,000, made it known that a "formal announcement" will be forthcoming. He accumulated his funds primarily from a 2009 special election that never materialized, when he was raising money in anticipation of former Rep. Mike Honda potentially joining the Obama administration.

Another local Democrat, Assemblyman Evan Low, is also expected to join the race. Both Low and Simitian are speculated to make announcements in the coming week. Low, who at 40 is much younger than Simitian, may emphasize his age as a factor, while Simitian might highlight his deep roots in the local community.

There are indications that state Sen. Josh Becker is also considering entering the race. Becker, who represents a significant portion of Eshoo's constituents, has not confirmed his intentions, but expressed the need to celebrate Eshoo's years of service before rushing to find her successor, according to reports.

Former San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo, despite previously stating he wouldn't run this cycle, now reveals that he is contemplating joining the race. Liccardo, known for his cameo appearance on the HBO comedy "Silicon Valley," ended his mayoral term early this year and is considering making a return to public office.

Anna Eshoo's departure marks the end of a storied career in local politics, one that began at a time when Silicon Valley was far from the Democratic stronghold it is today. Despite losing her first House race to a Republican, she persevered and eventually became the first Democratic representative in the area in over five decades. Eshoo's ties to Nancy Pelosi provided some advantages throughout her tenure, although she faced stiff competition in her most recent elections due to the top-two primary system.

As contenders gear up for what promises to be a fierce and closely watched race, the stage is set for a pivotal moment in California's 16th District. The primary election in March will be crucial in determining the Democratic candidate who will ultimately succeed Rep. Anna Eshoo and represent Silicon Valley in Congress.