Becerra Favored in California Race as Democrats Eye House Gains

While in-person voting is available, all California active registered voters are sent a vote-by-mail ballot. The gubernatorial contest features former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, a Democrat, against Republican Steve Hilton, a former Fox News host, as term-limited Gavin Newsom departs office.

Housing Costs and Policy Debates Shape the Gubernatorial Race

The cost of housing, fuel, and insurance sits at the center of the campaign. Hilton argues for a change from ongoing Democratic control of state offices. Becerra emphasizes health care and firm opposition to Trump administration policies. Becerra enters the contest heavily favored in the Democratic-leaning state.

Congressional Maps Expand Democratic Advantage

California maintains 52 congressional districts, the most of any state in the nation. Democrats hold a 43-9 advantage over Republicans heading into the election, following a three-seat gain in 2024. This election cycle is expected to make that substantial gap even wider.

Voters approved Proposition 50 in November 2025 to implement a new congressional map following redistricting shifts in Texas. That map remains in place until after the 2030 Census. Districts 1, 6, and 48 are expected to be picked up by Democrats, with District 22 leaning toward a flip.

Redistricting prompted several incumbent shifts. Republican-turned-independent Kevin Kiley runs in District 6 instead of District 3 to avoid a more difficult reelection fight. Democrat Ami Bera moved to District 3. Linda Sanchez shifted from District 38 to District 41, while Ken Calvert moved from District 41 to run in District 40.

Same-Party Contests in the Top-Two Primary System

Nine districts feature two candidates from the same party due to the state’s top-two primary system. District 7 features a generational challenge between long-time incumbent Doris Matsui and Mai Vang. District 11 voters choose a successor for former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who is retiring after three decades in office.

District 34 features a competitive contest between Representative Jimmy Gomez and Angela Gonzales-Torres. District 40 hosts the lone Republican same-party race, where incumbents Young Kim and Ken Calvert compete for a single seat.

Democrats Maintain Strong Leads in California Legislature

Democrats hold a 29-10 advantage over Republicans in the California Senate, where members serve four-year staggered terms and even-numbered districts appear on the ballot. District 10 remains vacant after Democrat Aisha Wahab resigned following her victory in an August congressional special election. That seat will be decided on Tuesday.

In the California State Assembly, Democrats hold a 60-19 advantage over Republicans with one vacancy. All 80 seats are up for a two-year term. District 3 was vacated by Republican James Gallagher after his election to the U.S. House of Representatives.