Election 2024: California House Races to Watch

Golden State Could Be Key in Determining Control of Congress

The 2024 House elections in California will be crucial in determining which party controls the chamber. The Golden State has 53 House seats, the most of any state, and its voters have been trending Democratic in recent years. In 2022, Democrats won 42 of California’s House seats, while Republicans won 11.

Several key races to watch in 2024 include:

• CA-21: This Central Valley district is currently held by Republican David Valadao, who narrowly defeated Democrat Rudy Salas in 2022. Valadao is a moderate Republican who has broken with his party on some issues, such as gun control. Salas is a former state assemblyman and farmer who is running on a progressive platform.
• CA-27: This Los Angeles-area district is currently held by Democrat Mike Garcia, who defeated Democrat Christy Smith in a special election in 2021. Garcia is a former Navy pilot and businessman who is running on a conservative platform. Smith is a former state assemblywoman and environmental activist who is running on a progressive platform.
• CA-40: This Orange County district is currently held by Republican Young Kim, who defeated Democrat Asif Mahmood in 2022. Kim is a former state assemblywoman and businesswoman who is running on a conservative platform. Mahmood is a physician and businessman who is running on a progressive platform.

The outcome of these races could have a significant impact on the balance of power in the House. If Democrats can win back some of the seats they lost in 2022, they could regain control of the chamber. If Republicans can hold on to their gains, they could maintain their majority.

California’s Changing Demographics Could Impact Election Outcomes

California’s changing demographics could also impact the outcome of the 2024 House elections. The state is becoming increasingly diverse, with a growing number of Latino and Asian American voters. These voters are more likely to vote for Democratic candidates, which could give Democrats an edge in some races.

However, Republicans are also making inroads with some minority voters. In 2022, Republican Yesli Vega came close to defeating Democratic Rep. Mike Levin in a district that is majority Latino. Vega’s strong performance suggests that Republicans could make gains with Latino voters in the future.

Money Will Play a Major Role in 2024 House Races

Money will also play a major role in the 2024 House races. Both parties are expected to spend heavily in California, which is home to some of the most expensive media markets in the country. Outside groups are also likely to spend millions of dollars on independent expenditures in the state.

The 2024 House elections in California will be closely watched by both parties. The outcome of these races could have a significant impact on the balance of power in the House and the future of California politics.