Payam Javan: California, often seen as a Democratic stronghold, is playing a crucial role in the 2024 congressional races, with millions of Republican and independent voters potentially influencing the outcome. The state’s 52 House of Representatives seats, currently split between 40 Democrats and 12 Republicans, are key to determining which party controls Congress. While Democrats maintain a significant lead in state government, many districts remain competitive, especially in regions like the Central Valley and Orange County, which have flipped between parties in recent years.
Several high-stakes rematches are drawing national attention, including District 13, where incumbent Republican Rep. John Duarte will again face Democrat Adam Gray. Duarte’s narrow victory in 2022, marking the first time the district turned red since 1974, highlights the region’s volatile political landscape. Duarte, a farmer and businessman, emphasizes affordability and resource policies, while Gray, a former state assemblyman, stresses bipartisan solutions and support for local issues like homelessness and water management.
Other notable races include District 22, where Republican Rep. David Valadao faces off against Democrat Rudy Salas in another close contest. Though more Democrats are registered in the district, Valadao has maintained his seat with a focus on agricultural and local economic issues, while Salas aims to expand public safety and workforce development. District 27 in northern Los Angeles County is also fiercely contested, with Republican Rep. Mike Garcia, a military veteran, running against aerospace executive George Whitesides, who promises to bring business expertise to Congress.
In addition to House races, the special election for the Senate seat left vacant by the late Sen. Dianne Feinstein is drawing significant attention. Governor Gavin Newsom appointed Laphonza Butler as interim senator, but she has chosen not to run for the full term. The race now features Rep. Adam Schiff and Republican Steve Garvey, with Californians set to decide who will represent them in both the short and long term in the U.S. Senate. These elections in the Golden State will be critical in shaping the future political landscape of both California and the country.
