Progressive Voters Guide Powered by Courage California
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Democrat

Alex Mohajer

Website Endorsements

Elect Alex Mohajer for State Senate to put SD-37 on the right track for progress. 



Alex Mohajer’s policy positions demonstrate that he will be a progressive voice for the constituents of SD-37 and will govern effectively in the best interests of this diverse district.

Progressive endorsements: Mohajer has the endorsement of some progressive groups, including California Working Families Party, Sunrise Movement, Chispa, Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund, CA Democratic Renters Council, Stonewall Democrats, and Safer California. 

Electoral history: Mohajer has not run for office previously.

Top issues: Public education, political representation, mental health and health care, workers’ rights, and the environment.

Governance and community leadership experience: Alex Mohajer is a political journalist, civil service advocate, and organizer, which he does because of his desire to make the world more just. As a civil service advocate for LA County, he investigates reports of sexual harassment and discrimination. He is a longtime supporter of political advocacy, frequently mobilizing younger voters through digital organizing. He produced the National Vote-at-Home Initiative in 2019, a voter-registration effort that registered 30,000 voters in swing states. He is proudly gay and has advocated for LGBTQIA+ rights, and was the first ever Iranian American elected as president of the Stonewall Democrats, one of the oldest LGBT political organizations in the country.

Other background: Mohajer is from Irvine. He is a first-generation American, the son of Iranian immigrants. He earned his BA from UC Berkeley and a law degree from Chapman University. 

 

The Race


Primary election: There are 10 candidates running in the March 5 primary, including Alex Mohajer (D), Senator Josh Newman (D), Steve Choi (R), Crystal Miles (R), and Guy Selleck (R). The top two vote recipients will advance to the general election on November 5.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Mohajer’s campaign has raised $184,167 and is not funded by corporate PACs, the fossil fuel industry, the real estate industry, or the police. His campaign is almost entirely funded by small donations from individual voters.

Opposing candidate: Senator Josh Newman
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Sen. Newman’s campaign has raised $2.1 million as of December 2023, and is funded by police, fossil fuel, corporate PAC, and real estate interests. Notably, Sen. Josh Newman is the current representative for SD-29, and has transitioned to run for this seat as a result of redistricting. Sen. Newman maintains some constituents in this new district, and has been backed by many labor unions, and members of party leadership. Sen. Newman has a lifetime score of 54 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting record, for opposing or not voting on key bills.

Opposing candidate: Republicans Crystal Miles, Steve Choi, Guy Selleck
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Miles’ campaign has raised $162,245 and is funded by the real estate industry. Selleck’s campaign has raised $146,770, although he has loaned close to $120,000 to his own campaign. He has also accepted donations from corporate PACs. Choi’s campaign has raised $40,070 and is also funded by the real estate industry. 

 

The District


Counties in district: California’s 37th State Senate District includes parts of Orange County.

Voter registration: 37% Democrat, 33% Republican, and 25% No Party Preference. This is typically a swing district, but has more often been won by Republicans.

District demographics: 18% Latino, 21% Asian, and 2% Black. 

Recent election results: SD-37 voted for Joe Biden for president in 2020 by 13 points and Gavin Newsom for governor in 2022 by 1 point.

 

The Position


State senators represent and advocate for the needs of their district constituents at the California State Capitol. They are responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation that addresses issues within their district.

The California State Senate has 40 districts. Each represents a population of about 930,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Senate for a four-year term. Every two years, half of the Senate’s 40 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to two four-year terms (eight years) in the Senate. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the state Senate or Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 31 seats in the California State Senate, while Republicans hold 9 seats.


 

Elect Alex Mohajer for State Senate to put SD-37 on the right track for progress. 



Alex Mohajer’s policy positions demonstrate that he will be a progressive voice for the constituents of SD-37 and will govern effectively in the best interests of this diverse district.

Progressive endorsements: Mohajer has the endorsement of some progressive groups, including California Working Families Party, Sunrise Movement, Chispa, Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund, CA Democratic Renters Council, Stonewall Democrats, and Safer California. 

Electoral history: Mohajer has not run for office previously.

Top issues: Public education, political representation, mental health and health care, workers’ rights, and the environment.

Governance and community leadership experience: Alex Mohajer is a political journalist, civil service advocate, and organizer, which he does because of his desire to make the world more just. As a civil service advocate for LA County, he investigates reports of sexual harassment and discrimination. He is a longtime supporter of political advocacy, frequently mobilizing younger voters through digital organizing. He produced the National Vote-at-Home Initiative in 2019, a voter-registration effort that registered 30,000 voters in swing states. He is proudly gay and has advocated for LGBTQIA+ rights, and was the first ever Iranian American elected as president of the Stonewall Democrats, one of the oldest LGBT political organizations in the country.

Other background: Mohajer is from Irvine. He is a first-generation American, the son of Iranian immigrants. He earned his BA from UC Berkeley and a law degree from Chapman University. 

 

The Race


Primary election: There are 10 candidates running in the March 5 primary, including Alex Mohajer (D), Senator Josh Newman (D), Steve Choi (R), Crystal Miles (R), and Guy Selleck (R). The top two vote recipients will advance to the general election on November 5.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Mohajer’s campaign has raised $184,167 and is not funded by corporate PACs, the fossil fuel industry, the real estate industry, or the police. His campaign is almost entirely funded by small donations from individual voters.

Opposing candidate: Senator Josh Newman
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Sen. Newman’s campaign has raised $2.1 million as of December 2023, and is funded by police, fossil fuel, corporate PAC, and real estate interests. Notably, Sen. Josh Newman is the current representative for SD-29, and has transitioned to run for this seat as a result of redistricting. Sen. Newman maintains some constituents in this new district, and has been backed by many labor unions, and members of party leadership. Sen. Newman has a lifetime score of 54 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting record, for opposing or not voting on key bills.

Opposing candidate: Republicans Crystal Miles, Steve Choi, Guy Selleck
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Miles’ campaign has raised $162,245 and is funded by the real estate industry. Selleck’s campaign has raised $146,770, although he has loaned close to $120,000 to his own campaign. He has also accepted donations from corporate PACs. Choi’s campaign has raised $40,070 and is also funded by the real estate industry. 

 

The District


Counties in district: California’s 37th State Senate District includes parts of Orange County.

Voter registration: 37% Democrat, 33% Republican, and 25% No Party Preference. This is typically a swing district, but has more often been won by Republicans.

District demographics: 18% Latino, 21% Asian, and 2% Black. 

Recent election results: SD-37 voted for Joe Biden for president in 2020 by 13 points and Gavin Newsom for governor in 2022 by 1 point.

 

The Position


State senators represent and advocate for the needs of their district constituents at the California State Capitol. They are responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation that addresses issues within their district.

The California State Senate has 40 districts. Each represents a population of about 930,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Senate for a four-year term. Every two years, half of the Senate’s 40 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to two four-year terms (eight years) in the Senate. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the state Senate or Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 31 seats in the California State Senate, while Republicans hold 9 seats.


 

37th Senate District

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President and Vice President

Joe Biden and Kamala Harris photo
Democrat

Joe Biden and Kamala Harris

Website

Re-elect President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris to keep America on track. 



President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have a track record and policy positions that demonstrate that they will continue to govern effectively in the best interests of this diverse nation.

Progressive endorsements: President Biden and Vice President Harris have the endorsement of some progressive groups, including the Sierra Club, Reproductive Freedom for All America, League of Conservation Voters, National Center for Transgender Equality, and Students Demand Action. They have also received the endorsement of a significant number of labor unions, including United Auto Workers, Actors’ Equity Association, AFL-CIO, IATSE, National Nurses United, and the American Federation of Teachers. President Biden and Vice President Harris also have the backing of the Democratic National Committee and a significant number of current and former Democratic officials, including former President Barack Obama, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, former Climate Envoy John Kerry, 14 current governors, 30 sitting U.S. senators, and over 70 members of the House of Representatives. This list includes California’s elected leaders Gov. Gavin Newsom, Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, Sen. Alex Padilla, Rep. Katie Porter, Rep. Eric Swalwell, and LA Mayor Karen Bass. 

Priority policies: The Biden administration has had policy successes across a diversity of issue areas during their first term. Immediately after taking office during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, President Biden worked to move the American Rescue Plan through Congress and successfully passed legislation to provide stimulus checks, boosts to unemployment payments, and increased funds for education and small-business loans. The plan also ramped up the distribution and administration of vaccines. This legislative effort was followed by the Bi-Partisan Infrastructure Law that made a $1 billion investment in electric vehicle infrastructure, national road and bridge repair, clean drinking water modifications, and power grid updates. In addition to these investments, the administration passed President Biden’s signature Inflation Reduction Act, an expansive bill to provide needed funding to cap prescription drug costs for the elderly, increase corporate taxes, invest in clean energy and climate protections, reduce the federal deficit, and increase tax accountability by provided additional funding to the IRS. The White House has indicated that nearly 170,000 clean energy jobs have been created by this legislation, clean energy investments have increased by $110 billion, and insulin has been capped at $35 a month. After years of inaction from the federal government, President Biden signed a significant gun-safety bill into law, which strengthens background check laws, incentivizes state-based red flag laws, and expands limitations on the acquisition of firearms by perpetrators of domestic abuse. President Biden also signed the CHIPS Act into law to increase domestic production of the semiconductors used in the manufacturing of many of the products Americans use daily. 

The Biden administration’s economic policies have contributed to the lowest unemployment rate in over 50 years, at 3.4% as of January 2024, economic growth of 3.1% in 2023, and an inflation rate that dropped below 3% at the end of December. The administration has led the U.S. back into the Paris Climate Accord, forgiven $136 billion in education debt, and provided consistent support to striking labor unions across the country. While many of these accomplishments came during the first two years of the administration, when Democrats controlled both chambers of Congress, President Biden and Vice President Harris have worked across the aisle to move impactful legislation forward for the American people with a divided Congress.

While the administration’s legislative successes have been substantial, they have been subject to significant criticism from progressives during this first term. While President Biden has maintained strong support for Israel during the October 7 Hamas attacks and the Israeli government’s retaliatory attacks on Palestinians in Gaza, the electorate and congressional representatives have expressed concerns about the U.S. government providing continued funding to the Israeli military, and activists and leaders have called on the Biden administration to advocate for a ceasefire in Gaza. On immigration and the southern border, the federal government’s failure to act has effectively continued the anti-immigrant policies enacted under the Trump administration and caused big city mayors and Democratic governors to publicly request that the White House and Congress pass meaningful legislation to reform an increasingly overwhelmed asylum and immigration system. Under Republican control, Congress has not passed any immigration reforms, and Republican leaders have advocated for more punitive and inhumane immigration policies.  

Governance and community leadership experience: President Biden and Vice President Harris have served in the White House since 2020, when they were elected on a joint ticket with 306 electoral votes and over 51% of the national popular vote. Their campaign won six critical swing states—Michigan, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Georgia, Nevada, and Arizona—to secure the electoral college victory.

Prior to his election, President Biden had a long and prominent political career. He served two terms as former President Barack Obama’s vice president and was responsible for managing the 2009 economic recovery, helping to expand health care through the Affordable Care Act, and acting as the administration’s liaison to the Senate. Before joining the Obama administration, he spent 36 years representing Delaware in the Senate. He was often critiqued as being an unremarkable, status quo Democrat, and mid-career votes in favor of the Defense of Marriage Act, anti-drug legislation, and the Iraq War reaffirm that characterization. In 1991, Vice President Biden was the chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee and presided over the Supreme Court confirmation hearings for Justice Clarence Thomas, who had been credibly accused of sexual harassment by a former colleague, Anita Hill. Vice President Biden’s mismanagement of the hearing resulted in a targeted and unfair character assassination of Anita Hill and remains a reminder of his complicity in the patriarchal and racist systems on which our American government is built. 

Prior to her election, Vice President Harris was the first woman of color elected to represent California in the United States Senate. She sponsored legislation on climate and environmental protections, rental and housing protections, women’s health, and pandemic relief. She was also an original cosponsor of the progressive Green New Deal authored by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio Cortez and Sen. Ed Markey.  Before serving in the Senate, Vice President Harris had a long legal career in California, serving for 8 years in the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office before transitioning to a role as a prosecutor in the San Francisco District Attorney’s Office. In 2003, she won her bid to become district attorney of the City and County of San Francisco, where she served two terms before being elected as the attorney general for the state of California in 2010. She was the first woman and the first person of color to hold this seat. Vice President Harris’s record was both progressive for the time and complicated by her moderate approach to policing and criminal justice. She has been criticized for failing to institute comprehensive police accountability measures, for not establishing meaningful prison reform, and for taking a hands-off approach to cases related to police misconduct. However, her lenient approach to policing was often punctuated by decidedly progressive support for social justice issues, including the establishment of an education and workforce reentry program designed to diminish recidivism. 

Other background: President Biden is from Scranton, PA, and moved to Delaware with his family when he was 10 years old. He has been a resident of Wilmington, Delaware, for most of his adult life. Vice President Harris grew up in Berkeley, CA, and was a longtime resident of Los Angeles. She is the daughter of a Jamaican father and an Indian mother, who both emigrated to the Bay Area in the 1960s.

 

The Race


Primary election: Eight candidates are running in the March 5 Democratic primary, including incumbent President Joe Biden (D), Rep. Dean Phillips (D), and Marianne Williamson (D). The candidate who receives the most delegates in the national Democratic primary will formally become the party’s designated Presidential candidate in August 2024.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: President Biden’s campaign has raised $56 million as of December 2023, and is not funded by police, real estate, corporate PAC, or fossil fuel interests.

Opposing candidate: Rep. Dean Phillips
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Rep. Phillips’s campaign has not filed any campaign fundraising receipts with the FEC as of December 2023.

Opposing candidate: Marianne Williamson
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Williamson’s campaign has raised $2.6 million as of December 2023, and is funded by corporate PAC interests. A significant amount of her campaign funding has been through candidate donations and loans taken out by the candidate.

 

The Position


The President of the United States is the head of the executive branch of the federal government, and the commander-in-chief for all branches of the armed forces. A president has the power to make diplomatic, executive, and judicial appointments, and can sign into law or veto legislation. Presidential administrations are responsible for both foreign and domestic policy priorities. Presidents are limited to serving two four-year terms in office.


 

Re-elect President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris to keep America on track. 



President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have a track record and policy positions that demonstrate that they will continue to govern effectively in the best interests of this diverse nation.

Progressive endorsements: President Biden and Vice President Harris have the endorsement of some progressive groups, including the Sierra Club, Reproductive Freedom for All America, League of Conservation Voters, National Center for Transgender Equality, and Students Demand Action. They have also received the endorsement of a significant number of labor unions, including United Auto Workers, Actors’ Equity Association, AFL-CIO, IATSE, National Nurses United, and the American Federation of Teachers. President Biden and Vice President Harris also have the backing of the Democratic National Committee and a significant number of current and former Democratic officials, including former President Barack Obama, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, former Climate Envoy John Kerry, 14 current governors, 30 sitting U.S. senators, and over 70 members of the House of Representatives. This list includes California’s elected leaders Gov. Gavin Newsom, Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, Sen. Alex Padilla, Rep. Katie Porter, Rep. Eric Swalwell, and LA Mayor Karen Bass. 

Priority policies: The Biden administration has had policy successes across a diversity of issue areas during their first term. Immediately after taking office during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, President Biden worked to move the American Rescue Plan through Congress and successfully passed legislation to provide stimulus checks, boosts to unemployment payments, and increased funds for education and small-business loans. The plan also ramped up the distribution and administration of vaccines. This legislative effort was followed by the Bi-Partisan Infrastructure Law that made a $1 billion investment in electric vehicle infrastructure, national road and bridge repair, clean drinking water modifications, and power grid updates. In addition to these investments, the administration passed President Biden’s signature Inflation Reduction Act, an expansive bill to provide needed funding to cap prescription drug costs for the elderly, increase corporate taxes, invest in clean energy and climate protections, reduce the federal deficit, and increase tax accountability by provided additional funding to the IRS. The White House has indicated that nearly 170,000 clean energy jobs have been created by this legislation, clean energy investments have increased by $110 billion, and insulin has been capped at $35 a month. After years of inaction from the federal government, President Biden signed a significant gun-safety bill into law, which strengthens background check laws, incentivizes state-based red flag laws, and expands limitations on the acquisition of firearms by perpetrators of domestic abuse. President Biden also signed the CHIPS Act into law to increase domestic production of the semiconductors used in the manufacturing of many of the products Americans use daily. 

The Biden administration’s economic policies have contributed to the lowest unemployment rate in over 50 years, at 3.4% as of January 2024, economic growth of 3.1% in 2023, and an inflation rate that dropped below 3% at the end of December. The administration has led the U.S. back into the Paris Climate Accord, forgiven $136 billion in education debt, and provided consistent support to striking labor unions across the country. While many of these accomplishments came during the first two years of the administration, when Democrats controlled both chambers of Congress, President Biden and Vice President Harris have worked across the aisle to move impactful legislation forward for the American people with a divided Congress.

While the administration’s legislative successes have been substantial, they have been subject to significant criticism from progressives during this first term. While President Biden has maintained strong support for Israel during the October 7 Hamas attacks and the Israeli government’s retaliatory attacks on Palestinians in Gaza, the electorate and congressional representatives have expressed concerns about the U.S. government providing continued funding to the Israeli military, and activists and leaders have called on the Biden administration to advocate for a ceasefire in Gaza. On immigration and the southern border, the federal government’s failure to act has effectively continued the anti-immigrant policies enacted under the Trump administration and caused big city mayors and Democratic governors to publicly request that the White House and Congress pass meaningful legislation to reform an increasingly overwhelmed asylum and immigration system. Under Republican control, Congress has not passed any immigration reforms, and Republican leaders have advocated for more punitive and inhumane immigration policies.  

Governance and community leadership experience: President Biden and Vice President Harris have served in the White House since 2020, when they were elected on a joint ticket with 306 electoral votes and over 51% of the national popular vote. Their campaign won six critical swing states—Michigan, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Georgia, Nevada, and Arizona—to secure the electoral college victory.

Prior to his election, President Biden had a long and prominent political career. He served two terms as former President Barack Obama’s vice president and was responsible for managing the 2009 economic recovery, helping to expand health care through the Affordable Care Act, and acting as the administration’s liaison to the Senate. Before joining the Obama administration, he spent 36 years representing Delaware in the Senate. He was often critiqued as being an unremarkable, status quo Democrat, and mid-career votes in favor of the Defense of Marriage Act, anti-drug legislation, and the Iraq War reaffirm that characterization. In 1991, Vice President Biden was the chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee and presided over the Supreme Court confirmation hearings for Justice Clarence Thomas, who had been credibly accused of sexual harassment by a former colleague, Anita Hill. Vice President Biden’s mismanagement of the hearing resulted in a targeted and unfair character assassination of Anita Hill and remains a reminder of his complicity in the patriarchal and racist systems on which our American government is built. 

Prior to her election, Vice President Harris was the first woman of color elected to represent California in the United States Senate. She sponsored legislation on climate and environmental protections, rental and housing protections, women’s health, and pandemic relief. She was also an original cosponsor of the progressive Green New Deal authored by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio Cortez and Sen. Ed Markey.  Before serving in the Senate, Vice President Harris had a long legal career in California, serving for 8 years in the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office before transitioning to a role as a prosecutor in the San Francisco District Attorney’s Office. In 2003, she won her bid to become district attorney of the City and County of San Francisco, where she served two terms before being elected as the attorney general for the state of California in 2010. She was the first woman and the first person of color to hold this seat. Vice President Harris’s record was both progressive for the time and complicated by her moderate approach to policing and criminal justice. She has been criticized for failing to institute comprehensive police accountability measures, for not establishing meaningful prison reform, and for taking a hands-off approach to cases related to police misconduct. However, her lenient approach to policing was often punctuated by decidedly progressive support for social justice issues, including the establishment of an education and workforce reentry program designed to diminish recidivism. 

Other background: President Biden is from Scranton, PA, and moved to Delaware with his family when he was 10 years old. He has been a resident of Wilmington, Delaware, for most of his adult life. Vice President Harris grew up in Berkeley, CA, and was a longtime resident of Los Angeles. She is the daughter of a Jamaican father and an Indian mother, who both emigrated to the Bay Area in the 1960s.

 

The Race


Primary election: Eight candidates are running in the March 5 Democratic primary, including incumbent President Joe Biden (D), Rep. Dean Phillips (D), and Marianne Williamson (D). The candidate who receives the most delegates in the national Democratic primary will formally become the party’s designated Presidential candidate in August 2024.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: President Biden’s campaign has raised $56 million as of December 2023, and is not funded by police, real estate, corporate PAC, or fossil fuel interests.

Opposing candidate: Rep. Dean Phillips
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Rep. Phillips’s campaign has not filed any campaign fundraising receipts with the FEC as of December 2023.

Opposing candidate: Marianne Williamson
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Williamson’s campaign has raised $2.6 million as of December 2023, and is funded by corporate PAC interests. A significant amount of her campaign funding has been through candidate donations and loans taken out by the candidate.

 

The Position


The President of the United States is the head of the executive branch of the federal government, and the commander-in-chief for all branches of the armed forces. A president has the power to make diplomatic, executive, and judicial appointments, and can sign into law or veto legislation. Presidential administrations are responsible for both foreign and domestic policy priorities. Presidents are limited to serving two four-year terms in office.


 

U.S. Senator

No Recommendation

There are 22 candidates running for California’s open U.S. Senate seat. Based on our analysis, three qualified candidates for this position have a distinct vision for the state. We recommend that you choose the candidate who best aligns to your values in this race.



The Race


Primary election: In October 2022, Governor Newsom appointed labor leader, political advisor, and former Emily’s List President Laphonza Butler to serve the remainder of the six-year term of Sen. Dianne Feinstein, who died September 2022 after serving in the U.S. Senate since 1992. There are 22 candidates running in the March 5 primary, including Rep. Barbara Lee (D), Rep. Katie Porter (D), and Rep. Adam Schiff (D). The top two vote recipients will advance to the general election on November 5.

The Candidates


Key Initiatives: Representative Barbara Lee is a longtime Congresswoman and has been a consistent progressive voice in Congress. She has been a prolific author of legislation related to ending AIDS/HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis, has moved efforts to reduce poverty forward, and was the only member of Congress to vote against the authorization for the use of military force after the attacks on September 11, 2001, a controversial position at the time. In recent legislative sessions, she has authored and sponsored legislation to curtail CEO overpay, improve research and public awareness of sickle cell disease, address the national backlog of unprocessed rape kits, and improve mental health resources for students. Prior to her election to the House of Representatives, Rep. Lee worked as a social worker and founded a mental-health service organization, Community Health Alliance for Neighborhood Growth and Education, to benefit her local East Bay community. She then spent eleven years working on the staff of Rep. Ron Dellums, eventually serving as his chief of staff. After her tenure in congressional staffing, she founded a facilities-management company. A few years later, in 1990, Rep. Lee launched a successful bid for a seat in the California Assembly, where she served for six years, before she was elected to the state Senate.

Representative Katie Porter is an attorney and public servant and has been a strong advocate for consumer protection, corporate accountability, and government transparency. She has gained notoriety for her meticulous and expert style of questioning in congressional hearings, and exercises this skill during Oversight and Reform Committee sessions. Her legislative successes include bills to lower prescription drug prices, increase the fee oil and gas companies pay to drill on public lands, lower the income threshold for out-of-pocket healthcare costs, and extend mental healthcare coverage. She has also recently supported efforts to ban members of Congress and their families from trading stocks. Prior to her election to Congress, Rep. Porter spent twenty years as a consumer-protection attorney. Ahead of the housing crisis in 2008, she issued early warnings of the financial system’s predatory lending, and has a strong track record of winning cases related to financial regulation. In 2012, then California Attorney General Kamala Harris appointed Rep. Porter to oversee banks as they returned over $18 billion to cheated homeowners in the state. 

Representative Adam Schiff is an attorney and public official and has been a consistent legislator on issues of government accountability, voting access, healthcare, and voting access. He rose to prominence as the Chair of the House Intelligence Committee who led the first impeachment inquiry of the Trump Administration. He has had legislative success on bills to increase pension payments for teachers, expand labor organizing protections, secure nearly $200 million in funding to address affordable housing development and homelessness in the state, create the patient bill of rights, and limit corporate spending to influence elections. He is also the lead author of legislation to end the NRA and the gun industry’s immunity from liability, which prevented victims and their families from seeking legal recourse. Prior to his election to Congress, Rep. Schiff worked as a law clerk and then as Assistant United States Attorney before being elected to California’s State Senate in 1996. He is a longtime supporter of progressive education, immigration, and environmental policies, but has cast unfavorable votes on issues pertaining to military spending and the use of military force, including a 2002 vote in favor of authorizing the use of military force against Iraq. 

Community Leadership Experience, Fundraising, and Endorsements: Rep. Lee has served in Congress since 1998, when she was elected with over 66% of the vote. In 2022, she won her reelection to CD-12 over a Republican challenger by 81 points. Her campaign has raised $3.3 million as of December 2023, and is not funded by police, fossil fuel, or corporate PAC interests. Rep. Lee has the endorsement of many progressive groups, including California Working Families Party, Black Women Organized for Political Action PAC, Gen Z for Change, Feminist Majority PAC, Our Revolution, and Reproductive Freedom for All California (formerly NARAL Pro-Choice California). She has also received the endorsement of some community and elected leaders, including Dolores Huerta, State Attorney General Rob Bonta, State Controller Malia Cohen, California Secretary of State Dr. Shirley Weber, Rep. Ro Khanna, Rep. Pramila Jayapal, State Senator Lola Smallwood-Cuevas, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, and San Francisco Mayor London Breed. 

Rep. Porter has served in Congress since 2018, when she was elected with over 52% of the vote. In 2022, she won her reelection against a Republican challenger by 3 points. Her campaign has raised $22 million as of December 2023, and is not funded by police, fossil fuel, or real estate interests. Rep. Porter has the endorsement of many progressive groups, including California Labor Federation, National Union of Healthcare Workers, and Women in Leadership PAC. She has also received the endorsement of many elected leaders, including Sen. Elizabeth Warren, Attorney General Rob Bonta, Assm. Alex Lee, State Sen. Scott Wiener, Rep. Robert Garcia, and State Sen. Catherine Blakespear.

Rep. Schiff has served in Congress since 2000, when he was elected with over 52% of the vote. In 2022, he won his reelection against a Democratic challenger by 42 points. His campaign has raised $21 million as of December 2023, and is not funded by police, or fossil fuel interests. Rep. Schiff has the endorsement of some labor groups, including IATSE California Council, IAFF, and Amalgamated Transit Union. He has also received the endorsement of many elected officials, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Rep. Kamlager-Dove, State Sen. Maria Elena Durazo, Assm. Tina McKinnor, Assm. Rick Chavez Zbur, and San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria.

Other background: Rep. Lee is from El Paso, TX, and moved to the San Fernando Valley when she was a child. She attended Mills College, where she served as president of the Black Student Union and invited Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm to speak on campus. Her interaction with Rep. Chisholm was an early inspiration for her pursuit of a career in public service. 

Rep. Porter is from Fort Dodge, IA, and now resides in Irvine, CA. Along with her legal practice, she is a longtime tenured professor of law at University of California-Irvine.

Rep. Schiff is from the Bay Area. He holds a law degree from Harvard University.

The District


State: California is the most populous state in the United States, and includes 58 counties and 39 million residents.

Voter registration: Of the 22 million registered voters in the state, 47% are Democrat, 24% are Republican, and 22% have no party preference. Democrats have held the Governor’s seat in the state since 2011.

District demographics: 40% Latino, 16% Asian, and 7% Black

Recent election results: California voted for Joe Biden for president in 2020 by 29 points and Gavin Newsom for governor in 2022 by 18 points. Sen. Feinstein won her 2018 reelection against now-Los Angeles City Councilmember Kevin de León by 8 points. 

The Position


Members of the Senate represent and advocate for the needs of their state constituency and share legislative responsibility with the House of Representatives. They are responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation that addresses issues of national importance. Senators have the exclusive responsibility of providing advice and consent to the executive branch on treaties, and on the nomination and approval of cabinet secretaries, ambassadors, and federal judges. The Senate also has the sole authority to bring and try an impeachment of a high official, up to and including removal from office with a two-thirds majority vote.

Each state, regardless of population, is represented by two senators. Senate elections are statewide, and senators are elected to serve a six-year term. There is no term limit for this position.

There are 22 candidates running for California’s open U.S. Senate seat. Based on our analysis, three qualified candidates for this position have a distinct vision for the state. We recommend that you choose the candidate who best aligns to your values in this race.



The Race


Primary election: In October 2022, Governor Newsom appointed labor leader, political advisor, and former Emily’s List President Laphonza Butler to serve the remainder of the six-year term of Sen. Dianne Feinstein, who died September 2022 after serving in the U.S. Senate since 1992. There are 22 candidates running in the March 5 primary, including Rep. Barbara Lee (D), Rep. Katie Porter (D), and Rep. Adam Schiff (D). The top two vote recipients will advance to the general election on November 5.

The Candidates


Key Initiatives: Representative Barbara Lee is a longtime Congresswoman and has been a consistent progressive voice in Congress. She has been a prolific author of legislation related to ending AIDS/HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis, has moved efforts to reduce poverty forward, and was the only member of Congress to vote against the authorization for the use of military force after the attacks on September 11, 2001, a controversial position at the time. In recent legislative sessions, she has authored and sponsored legislation to curtail CEO overpay, improve research and public awareness of sickle cell disease, address the national backlog of unprocessed rape kits, and improve mental health resources for students. Prior to her election to the House of Representatives, Rep. Lee worked as a social worker and founded a mental-health service organization, Community Health Alliance for Neighborhood Growth and Education, to benefit her local East Bay community. She then spent eleven years working on the staff of Rep. Ron Dellums, eventually serving as his chief of staff. After her tenure in congressional staffing, she founded a facilities-management company. A few years later, in 1990, Rep. Lee launched a successful bid for a seat in the California Assembly, where she served for six years, before she was elected to the state Senate.

Representative Katie Porter is an attorney and public servant and has been a strong advocate for consumer protection, corporate accountability, and government transparency. She has gained notoriety for her meticulous and expert style of questioning in congressional hearings, and exercises this skill during Oversight and Reform Committee sessions. Her legislative successes include bills to lower prescription drug prices, increase the fee oil and gas companies pay to drill on public lands, lower the income threshold for out-of-pocket healthcare costs, and extend mental healthcare coverage. She has also recently supported efforts to ban members of Congress and their families from trading stocks. Prior to her election to Congress, Rep. Porter spent twenty years as a consumer-protection attorney. Ahead of the housing crisis in 2008, she issued early warnings of the financial system’s predatory lending, and has a strong track record of winning cases related to financial regulation. In 2012, then California Attorney General Kamala Harris appointed Rep. Porter to oversee banks as they returned over $18 billion to cheated homeowners in the state. 

Representative Adam Schiff is an attorney and public official and has been a consistent legislator on issues of government accountability, voting access, healthcare, and voting access. He rose to prominence as the Chair of the House Intelligence Committee who led the first impeachment inquiry of the Trump Administration. He has had legislative success on bills to increase pension payments for teachers, expand labor organizing protections, secure nearly $200 million in funding to address affordable housing development and homelessness in the state, create the patient bill of rights, and limit corporate spending to influence elections. He is also the lead author of legislation to end the NRA and the gun industry’s immunity from liability, which prevented victims and their families from seeking legal recourse. Prior to his election to Congress, Rep. Schiff worked as a law clerk and then as Assistant United States Attorney before being elected to California’s State Senate in 1996. He is a longtime supporter of progressive education, immigration, and environmental policies, but has cast unfavorable votes on issues pertaining to military spending and the use of military force, including a 2002 vote in favor of authorizing the use of military force against Iraq. 

Community Leadership Experience, Fundraising, and Endorsements: Rep. Lee has served in Congress since 1998, when she was elected with over 66% of the vote. In 2022, she won her reelection to CD-12 over a Republican challenger by 81 points. Her campaign has raised $3.3 million as of December 2023, and is not funded by police, fossil fuel, or corporate PAC interests. Rep. Lee has the endorsement of many progressive groups, including California Working Families Party, Black Women Organized for Political Action PAC, Gen Z for Change, Feminist Majority PAC, Our Revolution, and Reproductive Freedom for All California (formerly NARAL Pro-Choice California). She has also received the endorsement of some community and elected leaders, including Dolores Huerta, State Attorney General Rob Bonta, State Controller Malia Cohen, California Secretary of State Dr. Shirley Weber, Rep. Ro Khanna, Rep. Pramila Jayapal, State Senator Lola Smallwood-Cuevas, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, and San Francisco Mayor London Breed. 

Rep. Porter has served in Congress since 2018, when she was elected with over 52% of the vote. In 2022, she won her reelection against a Republican challenger by 3 points. Her campaign has raised $22 million as of December 2023, and is not funded by police, fossil fuel, or real estate interests. Rep. Porter has the endorsement of many progressive groups, including California Labor Federation, National Union of Healthcare Workers, and Women in Leadership PAC. She has also received the endorsement of many elected leaders, including Sen. Elizabeth Warren, Attorney General Rob Bonta, Assm. Alex Lee, State Sen. Scott Wiener, Rep. Robert Garcia, and State Sen. Catherine Blakespear.

Rep. Schiff has served in Congress since 2000, when he was elected with over 52% of the vote. In 2022, he won his reelection against a Democratic challenger by 42 points. His campaign has raised $21 million as of December 2023, and is not funded by police, or fossil fuel interests. Rep. Schiff has the endorsement of some labor groups, including IATSE California Council, IAFF, and Amalgamated Transit Union. He has also received the endorsement of many elected officials, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Rep. Kamlager-Dove, State Sen. Maria Elena Durazo, Assm. Tina McKinnor, Assm. Rick Chavez Zbur, and San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria.

Other background: Rep. Lee is from El Paso, TX, and moved to the San Fernando Valley when she was a child. She attended Mills College, where she served as president of the Black Student Union and invited Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm to speak on campus. Her interaction with Rep. Chisholm was an early inspiration for her pursuit of a career in public service. 

Rep. Porter is from Fort Dodge, IA, and now resides in Irvine, CA. Along with her legal practice, she is a longtime tenured professor of law at University of California-Irvine.

Rep. Schiff is from the Bay Area. He holds a law degree from Harvard University.

The District


State: California is the most populous state in the United States, and includes 58 counties and 39 million residents.

Voter registration: Of the 22 million registered voters in the state, 47% are Democrat, 24% are Republican, and 22% have no party preference. Democrats have held the Governor’s seat in the state since 2011.

District demographics: 40% Latino, 16% Asian, and 7% Black

Recent election results: California voted for Joe Biden for president in 2020 by 29 points and Gavin Newsom for governor in 2022 by 18 points. Sen. Feinstein won her 2018 reelection against now-Los Angeles City Councilmember Kevin de León by 8 points. 

The Position


Members of the Senate represent and advocate for the needs of their state constituency and share legislative responsibility with the House of Representatives. They are responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation that addresses issues of national importance. Senators have the exclusive responsibility of providing advice and consent to the executive branch on treaties, and on the nomination and approval of cabinet secretaries, ambassadors, and federal judges. The Senate also has the sole authority to bring and try an impeachment of a high official, up to and including removal from office with a two-thirds majority vote.

Each state, regardless of population, is represented by two senators. Senate elections are statewide, and senators are elected to serve a six-year term. There is no term limit for this position.

Congress

Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below congressional districts on your ballot.

40th Congressional District

Member of the House of Representatives

Allyson Muñiz Damikolas photo
Democrat

Allyson Muñiz Damikolas

Website Endorsements

Elect Allyson Muñiz Damikolas for Congress to put CD-40 on the right track for progress.



Allyson Muñiz Damikolas’s track record and policy positions demonstrate that she will be a progressive voice for the constituents of CD-40 and will govern effectively in the best interests of this diverse district. The DCCC has designated this district as a priority flip in 2024.

Progressive endorsements: Muñiz Damikolas has the endorsement of some progressive groups, including EMILYs List, Women for American Values and Ethics PAC, and Women in Leadership PAC. She has also received the endorsement of many local leaders, including OC Supervisor Katrina Foley, OC Supervisor Vincente Sarmiento, Costa Mesa Mayor John Stephens, and Irvine Mayor Farrah Khan. 

Electoral history: Muñiz Damikolas ran for the Tustin Unified School District (TUSD) Board in 2020, and won the Area 1 seat against two challengers with 49% of the vote. 

Top issues: Gun safety, reproductive justice, health-care access, and education.

Priority bills: As a member of the TUSD Board, she has been a strong supporter of initiatives to improve the academic performance and graduation rates at Title 1 schools, elevate the ethnic studies curriculum, and increase mental-health and nurse staffing across the district. In 2022, three Board members, including Muñiz Damikolas, were targeted for recall by local conservatives who claimed that their support for the district’s ethnic studies curriculum was a covert effort to provide critical race theory instruction to students. This bad-faith effort to upend Muñiz Damikolas’s first term failed to gather enough petition support to qualify for the ballot. Although TUSD now has a student population that is 47% Latino, Muñiz Damikolas is only the second Latina member of the Board. 

Governance and community leadership experience: Muñiz Damikolas is a local elected leader, which she pursued after her two daughters re-enrolled in school following life-threatening health diagnoses. Prior to joining the school board, she served on the Special Education Community Advisory Committee and as PTO president for Columbus Tustin Middle School and Beckman High School, where she worked to advocate for students and the resources needed for them to be successful in the classroom. Prior to her involvement in public education, Muñiz Damikolas completed her degree in chemical engineering and worked as an environmental science consultant. 

Other background: Muñiz Damikolas is from southern California and has lived in Tustin for over 10 years. She is of Mexican and Puerto Rican descent.

The Race


Primary election: There are three candidates running in the March 5 primary, including Allyson Muñiz Damikolas (D), Joe Kerr (D), and incumbent Rep. Young Kim (R). The top two vote recipients will advance to the general election on November 5.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Muñiz Damikolas’s campaign has raised $308,000 as of October 2023, and is not funded by police, real estate, fossil fuel, or corporate PAC interests.

Opposing candidate: Democrat Joe Kerr
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Kerr’s campaign has raised $478,000 as of October 2023, and is not funded by police, real estate, fossil fuel, or corporate PAC interests.

Opposing candidate: Republican incumbent Rep. Young Kim
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Rep. Kim’s campaign has raised $2.9 million as of October 2023, and is funded by fossil fuel, corporate PAC, and real estate interests.

The District


Counties in district: California’s 40th Congressional District includes parts of Orange, San Bernardino, and Riverside Counties.

Voter registration: 34% Democrat, 38% Republican, and 23% No Party Preference. Prior to redistricting, Democrats typically held this seat.

District demographics: 19% Latino, 17% Asian, and 2% Black.

Recent election results: CD-40 voted for Joe Biden for president in 2020 by 2 points and Brian Dahle for governor in 2022 by 10 points.

The Position


Congressmembers represent and advocate for the needs of their district constituents at the United States Capitol. They are responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation that addresses issues within their district.

The United States is divided into 435 congressional districts, each with a population of about 710,000 individuals. Each district elects a representative to the House of Representatives for a two-year term. California has 52 congressional representatives, the largest delegation in the country. There is no term limit for this position.


Elect Allyson Muñiz Damikolas for Congress to put CD-40 on the right track for progress.



Allyson Muñiz Damikolas’s track record and policy positions demonstrate that she will be a progressive voice for the constituents of CD-40 and will govern effectively in the best interests of this diverse district. The DCCC has designated this district as a priority flip in 2024.

Progressive endorsements: Muñiz Damikolas has the endorsement of some progressive groups, including EMILYs List, Women for American Values and Ethics PAC, and Women in Leadership PAC. She has also received the endorsement of many local leaders, including OC Supervisor Katrina Foley, OC Supervisor Vincente Sarmiento, Costa Mesa Mayor John Stephens, and Irvine Mayor Farrah Khan. 

Electoral history: Muñiz Damikolas ran for the Tustin Unified School District (TUSD) Board in 2020, and won the Area 1 seat against two challengers with 49% of the vote. 

Top issues: Gun safety, reproductive justice, health-care access, and education.

Priority bills: As a member of the TUSD Board, she has been a strong supporter of initiatives to improve the academic performance and graduation rates at Title 1 schools, elevate the ethnic studies curriculum, and increase mental-health and nurse staffing across the district. In 2022, three Board members, including Muñiz Damikolas, were targeted for recall by local conservatives who claimed that their support for the district’s ethnic studies curriculum was a covert effort to provide critical race theory instruction to students. This bad-faith effort to upend Muñiz Damikolas’s first term failed to gather enough petition support to qualify for the ballot. Although TUSD now has a student population that is 47% Latino, Muñiz Damikolas is only the second Latina member of the Board. 

Governance and community leadership experience: Muñiz Damikolas is a local elected leader, which she pursued after her two daughters re-enrolled in school following life-threatening health diagnoses. Prior to joining the school board, she served on the Special Education Community Advisory Committee and as PTO president for Columbus Tustin Middle School and Beckman High School, where she worked to advocate for students and the resources needed for them to be successful in the classroom. Prior to her involvement in public education, Muñiz Damikolas completed her degree in chemical engineering and worked as an environmental science consultant. 

Other background: Muñiz Damikolas is from southern California and has lived in Tustin for over 10 years. She is of Mexican and Puerto Rican descent.

The Race


Primary election: There are three candidates running in the March 5 primary, including Allyson Muñiz Damikolas (D), Joe Kerr (D), and incumbent Rep. Young Kim (R). The top two vote recipients will advance to the general election on November 5.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Muñiz Damikolas’s campaign has raised $308,000 as of October 2023, and is not funded by police, real estate, fossil fuel, or corporate PAC interests.

Opposing candidate: Democrat Joe Kerr
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Kerr’s campaign has raised $478,000 as of October 2023, and is not funded by police, real estate, fossil fuel, or corporate PAC interests.

Opposing candidate: Republican incumbent Rep. Young Kim
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Rep. Kim’s campaign has raised $2.9 million as of October 2023, and is funded by fossil fuel, corporate PAC, and real estate interests.

The District


Counties in district: California’s 40th Congressional District includes parts of Orange, San Bernardino, and Riverside Counties.

Voter registration: 34% Democrat, 38% Republican, and 23% No Party Preference. Prior to redistricting, Democrats typically held this seat.

District demographics: 19% Latino, 17% Asian, and 2% Black.

Recent election results: CD-40 voted for Joe Biden for president in 2020 by 2 points and Brian Dahle for governor in 2022 by 10 points.

The Position


Congressmembers represent and advocate for the needs of their district constituents at the United States Capitol. They are responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation that addresses issues within their district.

The United States is divided into 435 congressional districts, each with a population of about 710,000 individuals. Each district elects a representative to the House of Representatives for a two-year term. California has 52 congressional representatives, the largest delegation in the country. There is no term limit for this position.


45th Congressional District

Member of the House of Representatives

No Recommendation

Based on our analysis, two of the Democratic candidates for this position have distinct visions for the district. The DCCC has designated this district as a priority flip in 2024, and we recommend that you choose the candidate who best aligns to your values in this race.



Endorsements: Kim Nguyen-Penaloza has the endorsement of some groups, including National Women’s Political Caucus, California Teachers Association, National Education Association, and Orange County Labor Federation. She has also received the endorsement of some elected leaders, including Rep. Katie Porter, Rep. Lou Correa, Rep. Sara Jacobs, State Sen. Monique Limón, and OC Supervisor Katrina Foley. In previous campaigns, Nguyen-Penaloza has had the endorsement and support of several law enforcement groups, and was criticized for some of her pro-carceral policy positions.

Derek Tran has the endorsement of a few groups, including New Democrat Coalition Action Fund. He has also received the endorsement of some elected leaders, including Rep. Mark Takano, Rep. Judy Chu, Attorney General Rob Bonta, and Santa Ana Mayor Pro Tem Jessie Lopez.

Key initiatives: Nguyen-Penaloza supported the establishment of Be Well OC, a mobile response team that provides deescalation, crisis support, and case management for individuals experiencing mental health issues and homelessness. She has championed economic development, improvements to local parks and infrastructure, and initiatives to ease the transition for new immigrants in the region. In 2020, she was appointed by Gov. Gavin Newsom to serve on the state’s California Film Commission, and serves as the city’s liaison to the League of California Cities. She is the youngest person ever elected to the City Council. 

Tran is a personal injury, employment, and discrimination attorney in private practice, which he does to provide representation to immigrants, victims of discrimination, and other marginalized groups. Tran was appointed to serve as a member of the Orange Traffic Commission, where he provides support to ongoing efforts to decrease traffic pollution, streamline infrastructure projects, and support highway planning.  In addition to these roles, he also co-owns a local pharmacy with his pharmacist wife. He is a board member with the Consumer Attorneys Association of Los Angeles, and chairs the organization’s Education Committee.

Governance and community leadership experience: Nguyen-Penaloza ran for Garden Grove City Council in 2016, and won with over 56% of the vote. In 2020, she won re-election with over 75% of the vote. She has also run for the Orange County Board of Supervisors twice. In 2020, she failed to advance out of the primary. In 2022, she lost in the general election by four points. 

In addition to her work on the City Council, Nguyen-Penaloza is a health insurance program manager with Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan. During college, she served as a legislative intern for Rep. Lou Correa. Prior to joining the Garden Grove City Council, she observed that the local district maps were inequitable, and drafted a redistricting plan to present to the council. Her proposal was ultimately adopted and implemented by the city. 

Tran has not run for public office before.

Prior to running for office, Tran served in the Army during Operation Enduring Freedom before enrolling in law school at Glendale College of Law. Tran volunteers with at-risk youth through Sunburst Academy, and is an active member of Rotary International. 

Other background: Nguyen-Penaloza is a lifelong resident of this district. She is the daughter of Vietnamese and Mexican immigrants.  

Tran is from southern California. He is the son of Vietnamese refugees. 

 

The Race


Primary election: There are five candidates running in the March 5 primary, including Kim Nguyen-Penaloza (D), Derek Tran (D), Cheyenne Hunt (D), Aditya Paj (D), and incumbent Rep. Michelle Steel (R). The top two vote recipients will advance to the general election on November 5.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Nguyen-Penaloza’s campaign has raised $206,000 as of December 2023, and is not funded by police, fossil fuel, corporate PAC, or real estate interests. 

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Tran’s campaign has raised $535,000 as of December 2023, and is not funded by police, fossil fuel, corporate PAC, or real estate interests.

Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Hunt’s campaign has raised $327,000 as of December 2023, and is not funded by police, fossil fuel, corporate PAC, or real estate interests.

Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Paj’s campaign has not filed any campaign fundraising receipts with the FEC as of December 2023.

Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Rep. Steel’s campaign has raised $3.2 million as of December 2023, and is funded by real estate, corporate PAC, and fossil fuel interests.

 

The District


Counties in district: California’s 45th Congressional District includes parts of Orange and Los Angeles Counties.

Voter registration: 38% Democrat, 32% Republican, and 24% No Party Preference. Partisan control of this seat has flipped several times over the last ten years.

District demographics: 23% Latino, 37% Asian, and 3% Black. 

Recent election results: CD-45 voted for Joe Biden for president in 2020 by 6 points and Brian Dahle for governor in 2022 by 2 points.

 

The Position


Congressmembers represent and advocate for the needs of their district constituents at the United States Capitol. They are responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation that addresses issues within their district.

The United States is divided into 435 congressional districts, each with a population of about 710,000 individuals. Each district elects a representative to the House of Representatives for a two-year term. California has 53 congressional representatives, the largest delegation in the country. There is no term limit for this position.


 

Based on our analysis, two of the Democratic candidates for this position have distinct visions for the district. The DCCC has designated this district as a priority flip in 2024, and we recommend that you choose the candidate who best aligns to your values in this race.



Endorsements: Kim Nguyen-Penaloza has the endorsement of some groups, including National Women’s Political Caucus, California Teachers Association, National Education Association, and Orange County Labor Federation. She has also received the endorsement of some elected leaders, including Rep. Katie Porter, Rep. Lou Correa, Rep. Sara Jacobs, State Sen. Monique Limón, and OC Supervisor Katrina Foley. In previous campaigns, Nguyen-Penaloza has had the endorsement and support of several law enforcement groups, and was criticized for some of her pro-carceral policy positions.

Derek Tran has the endorsement of a few groups, including New Democrat Coalition Action Fund. He has also received the endorsement of some elected leaders, including Rep. Mark Takano, Rep. Judy Chu, Attorney General Rob Bonta, and Santa Ana Mayor Pro Tem Jessie Lopez.

Key initiatives: Nguyen-Penaloza supported the establishment of Be Well OC, a mobile response team that provides deescalation, crisis support, and case management for individuals experiencing mental health issues and homelessness. She has championed economic development, improvements to local parks and infrastructure, and initiatives to ease the transition for new immigrants in the region. In 2020, she was appointed by Gov. Gavin Newsom to serve on the state’s California Film Commission, and serves as the city’s liaison to the League of California Cities. She is the youngest person ever elected to the City Council. 

Tran is a personal injury, employment, and discrimination attorney in private practice, which he does to provide representation to immigrants, victims of discrimination, and other marginalized groups. Tran was appointed to serve as a member of the Orange Traffic Commission, where he provides support to ongoing efforts to decrease traffic pollution, streamline infrastructure projects, and support highway planning.  In addition to these roles, he also co-owns a local pharmacy with his pharmacist wife. He is a board member with the Consumer Attorneys Association of Los Angeles, and chairs the organization’s Education Committee.

Governance and community leadership experience: Nguyen-Penaloza ran for Garden Grove City Council in 2016, and won with over 56% of the vote. In 2020, she won re-election with over 75% of the vote. She has also run for the Orange County Board of Supervisors twice. In 2020, she failed to advance out of the primary. In 2022, she lost in the general election by four points. 

In addition to her work on the City Council, Nguyen-Penaloza is a health insurance program manager with Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan. During college, she served as a legislative intern for Rep. Lou Correa. Prior to joining the Garden Grove City Council, she observed that the local district maps were inequitable, and drafted a redistricting plan to present to the council. Her proposal was ultimately adopted and implemented by the city. 

Tran has not run for public office before.

Prior to running for office, Tran served in the Army during Operation Enduring Freedom before enrolling in law school at Glendale College of Law. Tran volunteers with at-risk youth through Sunburst Academy, and is an active member of Rotary International. 

Other background: Nguyen-Penaloza is a lifelong resident of this district. She is the daughter of Vietnamese and Mexican immigrants.  

Tran is from southern California. He is the son of Vietnamese refugees. 

 

The Race


Primary election: There are five candidates running in the March 5 primary, including Kim Nguyen-Penaloza (D), Derek Tran (D), Cheyenne Hunt (D), Aditya Paj (D), and incumbent Rep. Michelle Steel (R). The top two vote recipients will advance to the general election on November 5.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Nguyen-Penaloza’s campaign has raised $206,000 as of December 2023, and is not funded by police, fossil fuel, corporate PAC, or real estate interests. 

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Tran’s campaign has raised $535,000 as of December 2023, and is not funded by police, fossil fuel, corporate PAC, or real estate interests.

Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Hunt’s campaign has raised $327,000 as of December 2023, and is not funded by police, fossil fuel, corporate PAC, or real estate interests.

Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Paj’s campaign has not filed any campaign fundraising receipts with the FEC as of December 2023.

Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Rep. Steel’s campaign has raised $3.2 million as of December 2023, and is funded by real estate, corporate PAC, and fossil fuel interests.

 

The District


Counties in district: California’s 45th Congressional District includes parts of Orange and Los Angeles Counties.

Voter registration: 38% Democrat, 32% Republican, and 24% No Party Preference. Partisan control of this seat has flipped several times over the last ten years.

District demographics: 23% Latino, 37% Asian, and 3% Black. 

Recent election results: CD-45 voted for Joe Biden for president in 2020 by 6 points and Brian Dahle for governor in 2022 by 2 points.

 

The Position


Congressmembers represent and advocate for the needs of their district constituents at the United States Capitol. They are responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation that addresses issues within their district.

The United States is divided into 435 congressional districts, each with a population of about 710,000 individuals. Each district elects a representative to the House of Representatives for a two-year term. California has 53 congressional representatives, the largest delegation in the country. There is no term limit for this position.


 

46th Congressional District

Member of the House of Representatives

Lou Correa photo
Democrat

Lou Correa

Website

Re-elect Congressional Representative Lou Correa to keep CD-46 on the right track for progress. 



Rep. Lou Correa maintains an independent and centrist track record in Congress, and has been a frequent recipient of donations from problematic corporate, real estate, and fossil fuel funders. Given these associations, it is critical that voters continue to hold him accountable to ensure that his legislative efforts remain in the best interests of the district and constituents. Based on our analysis, Rep. Correa’s policy positions demonstrate that he will continue to be a representative leader for the constituents of CD-46 and will govern effectively for this diverse district if he is subjected to increased community accountability.

Progressive endorsements: Rep. Correa has the endorsement of some progressive groups, including Equality California and California Environmental Voters. However, in previous election cycles, he has received problematic law enforcement support from California Police Chiefs’ Association, National Latino Peace Officers Association, and Association of Orange County Deputy Sheriffs. 

Top issues: Immigration, armed forces and veterans supports, human trafficking, and health care.

Priority bills: This year, Rep. Correa’s priorities for CD-46 have included 15 bills about youth mental health care, and ending human trafficking. All of these bills remain in committee. He has sponsored legislation to provide improved mental health-care access for students, recognize the accomplishments and contributions of Vietnamese Americans, promote a reduction in emissions from landscaping equipment, and create international law enforcement partnerships to combat human trafficking across borders.

Member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus?: No.

Committee leadership/membership: Rep. Correa currently sits on the Judiciary and Homeland Security committees. He is a member of the Hispanic Caucus.

Governance and community leadership experience: Rep. Correa has served in this congressional seat since 2016, when he was elected with over 70% of the vote. In 2022, he won his re-election against a Republican challenger by 24 points.

Prior to his election to Congress, Rep. Correa served two terms in the state Senate, one term on the Orange County Board of Supervisors, and three terms in the State Assembly. The son of an immigrant family, Rep. Correa has been a longtime supporter of immigration reform and creating a path to citizenship, although his policy approach stops short of calling for the abolishment of ICE. He has been a consistent recipient of Big Pharma donations, and was one of only a few members of Congress who urged changes to President Biden’s Build Back Better legislation to limit drug price negotiation. Similarly, as a member of the state legislature, he voted in opposition to a Democrat-led overhaul of the health-care system. Notably, Rep. Correa has demonstrated some evolution on social issues during his time in public service. As a state senator, he logged the lowest legislative score from Equality California for his stance on LGBTQIA+ issues, but voted in favor of the Equality Act, co-sponsored the recent Respect for Marriage Act as a member of Congress, and is a sitting member of the House LGBT Equality Caucus.

Other background: Rep. Correa is from Anaheim, and lived part of his early childhood in Zacatecas, Mexico. He has been a resident of Orange County for most of his life. He grew up in a working-class family, and attended public schools in Anaheim before matriculating to California State-Fullerton and UCLA for undergraduate studies and law school, respectively. He was a private-sector lawyer and real estate broker before entering public service. 

The Race


Primary election: There are two candidates running in the March 5 primary, including Rep. Lou Correa (D), and David Pan (R). The top two vote recipients will advance to the general election on November 5.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Rep. Correa’s campaign has raised $475,000 as of October 2023, and is not funded by police interests.

Opposing candidate: Republican David Pan
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Pan’s campaign has raised $10,000 as of October 2023, and is entirely self-funded.

The District


Counties in district: California’s 46th Congressional District includes parts of Orange County.

Voter registration: 49% Democrat, 22% Republican, and 24% No Party Preference. Republicans held this district until 2012 when former Rep. Loretta Sanchez won and flipped it from red to blue.

District demographics: 51% Latino, 19% Asian, and 3% Black. This district is considered to be one of the 16 strong Latino seats in the California congressional delegation.

Recent election results: CD-46 voted for Joe Biden for president in 2020 by 30 points and Gavin Newsom for governor in 2022 by 20 points.

The Position


Congressmembers represent and advocate for the needs of their district constituents at the United States Capitol. They are responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation that addresses issues within their district.

The United States is divided into 435 congressional districts, each with a population of about 710,000 individuals. Each district elects a representative to the House of Representatives for a two-year term. California has 52 congressional representatives, the largest delegation in the country. There is no term limit for this position.


Re-elect Congressional Representative Lou Correa to keep CD-46 on the right track for progress. 



Rep. Lou Correa maintains an independent and centrist track record in Congress, and has been a frequent recipient of donations from problematic corporate, real estate, and fossil fuel funders. Given these associations, it is critical that voters continue to hold him accountable to ensure that his legislative efforts remain in the best interests of the district and constituents. Based on our analysis, Rep. Correa’s policy positions demonstrate that he will continue to be a representative leader for the constituents of CD-46 and will govern effectively for this diverse district if he is subjected to increased community accountability.

Progressive endorsements: Rep. Correa has the endorsement of some progressive groups, including Equality California and California Environmental Voters. However, in previous election cycles, he has received problematic law enforcement support from California Police Chiefs’ Association, National Latino Peace Officers Association, and Association of Orange County Deputy Sheriffs. 

Top issues: Immigration, armed forces and veterans supports, human trafficking, and health care.

Priority bills: This year, Rep. Correa’s priorities for CD-46 have included 15 bills about youth mental health care, and ending human trafficking. All of these bills remain in committee. He has sponsored legislation to provide improved mental health-care access for students, recognize the accomplishments and contributions of Vietnamese Americans, promote a reduction in emissions from landscaping equipment, and create international law enforcement partnerships to combat human trafficking across borders.

Member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus?: No.

Committee leadership/membership: Rep. Correa currently sits on the Judiciary and Homeland Security committees. He is a member of the Hispanic Caucus.

Governance and community leadership experience: Rep. Correa has served in this congressional seat since 2016, when he was elected with over 70% of the vote. In 2022, he won his re-election against a Republican challenger by 24 points.

Prior to his election to Congress, Rep. Correa served two terms in the state Senate, one term on the Orange County Board of Supervisors, and three terms in the State Assembly. The son of an immigrant family, Rep. Correa has been a longtime supporter of immigration reform and creating a path to citizenship, although his policy approach stops short of calling for the abolishment of ICE. He has been a consistent recipient of Big Pharma donations, and was one of only a few members of Congress who urged changes to President Biden’s Build Back Better legislation to limit drug price negotiation. Similarly, as a member of the state legislature, he voted in opposition to a Democrat-led overhaul of the health-care system. Notably, Rep. Correa has demonstrated some evolution on social issues during his time in public service. As a state senator, he logged the lowest legislative score from Equality California for his stance on LGBTQIA+ issues, but voted in favor of the Equality Act, co-sponsored the recent Respect for Marriage Act as a member of Congress, and is a sitting member of the House LGBT Equality Caucus.

Other background: Rep. Correa is from Anaheim, and lived part of his early childhood in Zacatecas, Mexico. He has been a resident of Orange County for most of his life. He grew up in a working-class family, and attended public schools in Anaheim before matriculating to California State-Fullerton and UCLA for undergraduate studies and law school, respectively. He was a private-sector lawyer and real estate broker before entering public service. 

The Race


Primary election: There are two candidates running in the March 5 primary, including Rep. Lou Correa (D), and David Pan (R). The top two vote recipients will advance to the general election on November 5.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Rep. Correa’s campaign has raised $475,000 as of October 2023, and is not funded by police interests.

Opposing candidate: Republican David Pan
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Pan’s campaign has raised $10,000 as of October 2023, and is entirely self-funded.

The District


Counties in district: California’s 46th Congressional District includes parts of Orange County.

Voter registration: 49% Democrat, 22% Republican, and 24% No Party Preference. Republicans held this district until 2012 when former Rep. Loretta Sanchez won and flipped it from red to blue.

District demographics: 51% Latino, 19% Asian, and 3% Black. This district is considered to be one of the 16 strong Latino seats in the California congressional delegation.

Recent election results: CD-46 voted for Joe Biden for president in 2020 by 30 points and Gavin Newsom for governor in 2022 by 20 points.

The Position


Congressmembers represent and advocate for the needs of their district constituents at the United States Capitol. They are responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation that addresses issues within their district.

The United States is divided into 435 congressional districts, each with a population of about 710,000 individuals. Each district elects a representative to the House of Representatives for a two-year term. California has 52 congressional representatives, the largest delegation in the country. There is no term limit for this position.


47th Congressional District

Member of the House of Representatives

No Recommendation

Based on our analysis, two of the Democratic candidates for this position have distinct visions for the district. We recommend that you choose the candidate who best aligns to your values in this race. This is a top priority Democratic seat to hold. 



Progressive endorsements: Joanna Weiss has the endorsement of some progressive groups, including Emily’s List, Women for American Values and Ethics (WAVE), and OC Action, as well as labor unions like UA 250. She has also been endorsed by Democratic elected officials like Lt. Governor Eleni Kounalakis, former Congressman Harley Rouda, Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley, and Anaheim Mayor Ashleigh Aitken.

State Senator Dave Min has the endorsement of some progressive groups, including California Environmental Voters, NeverAgain California, and Equality California, as well as labor unions like SEIU, California Labor Federation, OC Labor Federation, California Federation of Teachers, LiUNA, and National Union of Healthcare Workers, and publications like the Los Angeles Times. He has been endorsed by Democratic Officials like Reps. Katie Porter, Judy Chu, and Mark Takano, Attorney General Rob Bonta, and Assms. Buffy Wicks, Sharon Quirk-Silva, and Ash Kalra. He has also received endorsements from problematic stakeholders, including the Los Angeles Police Protective League, Police Officers Research Association of California, and Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs. 

Key initiatives: Joanna Weiss has provided leadership in moving the county forward to mobilize Democratic women voters.

Senator Dave Min has successfully secured millions of dollars in funding to increase climate resilience and ban gun shows in Orange County fairgrounds as a member of the state Senate. He has provided leadership in moving the county forward on gun safety and climate protections. However, he has opposed progressive action on several issues, and has consistently not supported criminal justice reforms like reducing solitary confinement in California prisons or strengthening requirements for police service and access to military equipment.

Governance and community leadership experience: Weiss has not run for public office previously.

Joanna Weiss is a nonprofit founder and former lawyer. She founded the nonprofit Women for American Values and Ethics (WAVE), a grassroots group that aims to advance progressive values through campaign and policy organizing. While working as a lawyer, she received accolades for her service from the ACLU, the Women’s Journey Foundation, and the Anti-Defamation League. 

Sen. Min has served in the state Senate since 2020, when he was elected with 51% of the vote.

Prior to his election to the state Senate, Sen. Dave Min was a law professor at UC Irvine, focusing his research on economic equity. Min spent his early career working for the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to break up fraud operations, and was a senior policy advisor to Senator Chuck Schumer. He also served as the deputy staff director on the Joint Economic Committee.

Other background: Weiss was born and raised in Orange County. 

Sen. Min is from California. 

 

The Race


Primary election: There are 13 candidates running in the March 5 primary, including Joanna Weiss (D), Senator Dave Min (D), Scott Baugh (R), and Max Ukropina (R). The top two vote recipients will advance to the general election on November 5.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Weiss’s campaign has raised $1,005,888 and is not funded by the fossil fuel industry, the real estate industry, corporate PACs, or the police. She has contributed $231,600 to her own campaign.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Min’s campaign has raised $1,236,179 and is not funded by the fossil fuel industry, the real estate industry, corporate PACs, or the police.

Opposing candidate: Republican Scott Baugh
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Baugh’s campaign has raised $1,483,668 and is funded by corporate PACs. He has also received nearly $150,000 in donations from leadership PACs of other Republican politicians.

 

The District


Counties in district: California’s 47th Congressional District includes parts of Orange County.

Voter registration: 36% Democrat, 34% Republican, and 24% No Party Preference. This district is typically competitive.

District demographics: 14% Latino, 19% Asian, and 2% Black. 

Recent election results: CD-47 voted for Joe Biden for president in 2020 by 11 points and Brian Dahle for governor in 2022 by 1 point.

 

The Position


Congressmembers represent and advocate for the needs of their district constituents at the United States Capitol. They are responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation that addresses issues within their district.

The United States is divided into 435 congressional districts, each with a population of about 710,000 individuals. Each district elects a representative to the House of Representatives for a two-year term. California has 53 congressional representatives, the largest delegation in the country. There is no term limit for this position.


 

Based on our analysis, two of the Democratic candidates for this position have distinct visions for the district. We recommend that you choose the candidate who best aligns to your values in this race. This is a top priority Democratic seat to hold. 



Progressive endorsements: Joanna Weiss has the endorsement of some progressive groups, including Emily’s List, Women for American Values and Ethics (WAVE), and OC Action, as well as labor unions like UA 250. She has also been endorsed by Democratic elected officials like Lt. Governor Eleni Kounalakis, former Congressman Harley Rouda, Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley, and Anaheim Mayor Ashleigh Aitken.

State Senator Dave Min has the endorsement of some progressive groups, including California Environmental Voters, NeverAgain California, and Equality California, as well as labor unions like SEIU, California Labor Federation, OC Labor Federation, California Federation of Teachers, LiUNA, and National Union of Healthcare Workers, and publications like the Los Angeles Times. He has been endorsed by Democratic Officials like Reps. Katie Porter, Judy Chu, and Mark Takano, Attorney General Rob Bonta, and Assms. Buffy Wicks, Sharon Quirk-Silva, and Ash Kalra. He has also received endorsements from problematic stakeholders, including the Los Angeles Police Protective League, Police Officers Research Association of California, and Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs. 

Key initiatives: Joanna Weiss has provided leadership in moving the county forward to mobilize Democratic women voters.

Senator Dave Min has successfully secured millions of dollars in funding to increase climate resilience and ban gun shows in Orange County fairgrounds as a member of the state Senate. He has provided leadership in moving the county forward on gun safety and climate protections. However, he has opposed progressive action on several issues, and has consistently not supported criminal justice reforms like reducing solitary confinement in California prisons or strengthening requirements for police service and access to military equipment.

Governance and community leadership experience: Weiss has not run for public office previously.

Joanna Weiss is a nonprofit founder and former lawyer. She founded the nonprofit Women for American Values and Ethics (WAVE), a grassroots group that aims to advance progressive values through campaign and policy organizing. While working as a lawyer, she received accolades for her service from the ACLU, the Women’s Journey Foundation, and the Anti-Defamation League. 

Sen. Min has served in the state Senate since 2020, when he was elected with 51% of the vote.

Prior to his election to the state Senate, Sen. Dave Min was a law professor at UC Irvine, focusing his research on economic equity. Min spent his early career working for the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to break up fraud operations, and was a senior policy advisor to Senator Chuck Schumer. He also served as the deputy staff director on the Joint Economic Committee.

Other background: Weiss was born and raised in Orange County. 

Sen. Min is from California. 

 

The Race


Primary election: There are 13 candidates running in the March 5 primary, including Joanna Weiss (D), Senator Dave Min (D), Scott Baugh (R), and Max Ukropina (R). The top two vote recipients will advance to the general election on November 5.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Weiss’s campaign has raised $1,005,888 and is not funded by the fossil fuel industry, the real estate industry, corporate PACs, or the police. She has contributed $231,600 to her own campaign.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Min’s campaign has raised $1,236,179 and is not funded by the fossil fuel industry, the real estate industry, corporate PACs, or the police.

Opposing candidate: Republican Scott Baugh
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Baugh’s campaign has raised $1,483,668 and is funded by corporate PACs. He has also received nearly $150,000 in donations from leadership PACs of other Republican politicians.

 

The District


Counties in district: California’s 47th Congressional District includes parts of Orange County.

Voter registration: 36% Democrat, 34% Republican, and 24% No Party Preference. This district is typically competitive.

District demographics: 14% Latino, 19% Asian, and 2% Black. 

Recent election results: CD-47 voted for Joe Biden for president in 2020 by 11 points and Brian Dahle for governor in 2022 by 1 point.

 

The Position


Congressmembers represent and advocate for the needs of their district constituents at the United States Capitol. They are responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation that addresses issues within their district.

The United States is divided into 435 congressional districts, each with a population of about 710,000 individuals. Each district elects a representative to the House of Representatives for a two-year term. California has 53 congressional representatives, the largest delegation in the country. There is no term limit for this position.


 

49th Congressional District

Member of the House of Representatives

Mike Levin photo
Democrat

Mike Levin

Website

Re-elect Congressional Representative Mike Levin to keep CD-49 on the right track for progress. 



Rep. Mike Levin’s track record and policy positions demonstrate that he will continue to be a progressive voice for the constituents of CD-49 and will govern effectively in the best interests of this diverse district. This is a seat that Democrats have prioritized to protect to maintain control of the House. 

Progressive endorsements: Rep. Levin has the endorsement of some progressive groups, including Equality California, Planned Parenthood Action Fund, and California Environmental Voters. 

Top issues: Armed forces and national security, energy, public health, public lands and natural resources, gun safety, and agriculture and food.

Priority bills: This year, Rep. Levin’s priorities for CD-49 have included 18 bills about renewable energy, veteran support, gun safety, and water sustainability. All of these bills are currently in committee. He has sponsored legislation to develop renewable energy on public lands, build a unified global strategy for managing epidemics and pandemics, and protect the California coastline and the Pacific Ocean. Rep. Levin has also supported legislation to improve firearm safety by providing tax credits to retailers to incentivize the sale of gun storage cases.

Member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus?: Yes.

Committee leadership/membership: Rep. Levin currently sits on the Veterans’ Affairs and Natural Resources committees. He is a member of the Hispanic Caucus, and the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force.

Governance and community leadership experience: Rep. Levin has served in this congressional seat since 2018, when he was elected with over 56% of the vote. In 2022, he won his re-election against a Republican challenger by 6 points.

Prior to his election to Congress, Rep. Levin served as executive director of the Democratic Party of Orange County and on the board of the Center for Sustainable Energy. Rep. Levin also co-founded Sustain OC, helping to push the transition toward more sustainable power and transportation alternatives. Rep. Levin has been a longtime supporter of environmental protection. As a member of Congress, Levin has advanced legislation to support veterans, and championed efforts to expand access to affordable health care and to protect reproductive rights. He has supported bills to transition the country to zero-emissions cars, to ban new offshore-drilling leases along the coast of Southern California, and to develop renewable energy on public lands.  

Other background: Rep. Levin, an environmental and regulatory compliance attorney, was raised in south Orange County and now lives in San Juan Capistrano.

The Race


Primary election: There are five candidates running in the March 5 primary, including Rep. Mike Levin (D), Sheryl Adams (R), Matt Gunderson (R), Kate Monroe (R), and Margarita Wilkinson (R). The top two vote recipients will advance to the general election on November 5.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Rep. Levin’s campaign has raised $1.9 million as of October 2023, and is not funded by police, fossil fuel, or corporate PAC interests.

Opposing candidate: Republican Sheryl Adams
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Adams’s campaign has raised $213,000 as of October 2023, and is not funded by police, real estate, fossil fuel, or corporate PAC interests. She has donated over $150,000 to her own campaign. 

Opposing candidate: Republican Matt Gunderson
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Gunderson’s campaign has raised $873,000 as of October 2023, and is funded by real estate interests.

Opposing candidate: Republican Kate Monroe
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Monroe’s campaign has raised $175,000 as of October 2023, and is primarily self-funded.

Opposing candidate: Republican Margarita Wilkinson
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Wilkinson’s campaign has raised $1 million as of October 2023, and has loaned her campaign $825,000.

The District


Counties in district: California’s 49th Congressional District includes parts of San Diego and Orange Counties.

Voter registration: 37% Democrat, 33% Republican, and 23% No Party Preference. This seat was held by Republicans until 2018 when Rep. Mike Levin won and flipped it from red to blue. 

District demographics: 20% Latino, 7% Asian, and 3% Black. 

Recent election results: CD-49 voted for Joe for president in 2020 by 11 points and Gavin Newsom for governor in 2022 by less than one point.

The Position


Congressmembers represent and advocate for the needs of their district constituents at the United States Capitol. They are responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation that addresses issues within their district.

The United States is divided into 435 congressional districts, each with a population of about 710,000 individuals. Each district elects a representative to the House of Representatives for a two-year term. California has 52 congressional representatives, the largest delegation in the country. There is no term limit for this position.


Re-elect Congressional Representative Mike Levin to keep CD-49 on the right track for progress. 



Rep. Mike Levin’s track record and policy positions demonstrate that he will continue to be a progressive voice for the constituents of CD-49 and will govern effectively in the best interests of this diverse district. This is a seat that Democrats have prioritized to protect to maintain control of the House. 

Progressive endorsements: Rep. Levin has the endorsement of some progressive groups, including Equality California, Planned Parenthood Action Fund, and California Environmental Voters. 

Top issues: Armed forces and national security, energy, public health, public lands and natural resources, gun safety, and agriculture and food.

Priority bills: This year, Rep. Levin’s priorities for CD-49 have included 18 bills about renewable energy, veteran support, gun safety, and water sustainability. All of these bills are currently in committee. He has sponsored legislation to develop renewable energy on public lands, build a unified global strategy for managing epidemics and pandemics, and protect the California coastline and the Pacific Ocean. Rep. Levin has also supported legislation to improve firearm safety by providing tax credits to retailers to incentivize the sale of gun storage cases.

Member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus?: Yes.

Committee leadership/membership: Rep. Levin currently sits on the Veterans’ Affairs and Natural Resources committees. He is a member of the Hispanic Caucus, and the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force.

Governance and community leadership experience: Rep. Levin has served in this congressional seat since 2018, when he was elected with over 56% of the vote. In 2022, he won his re-election against a Republican challenger by 6 points.

Prior to his election to Congress, Rep. Levin served as executive director of the Democratic Party of Orange County and on the board of the Center for Sustainable Energy. Rep. Levin also co-founded Sustain OC, helping to push the transition toward more sustainable power and transportation alternatives. Rep. Levin has been a longtime supporter of environmental protection. As a member of Congress, Levin has advanced legislation to support veterans, and championed efforts to expand access to affordable health care and to protect reproductive rights. He has supported bills to transition the country to zero-emissions cars, to ban new offshore-drilling leases along the coast of Southern California, and to develop renewable energy on public lands.  

Other background: Rep. Levin, an environmental and regulatory compliance attorney, was raised in south Orange County and now lives in San Juan Capistrano.

The Race


Primary election: There are five candidates running in the March 5 primary, including Rep. Mike Levin (D), Sheryl Adams (R), Matt Gunderson (R), Kate Monroe (R), and Margarita Wilkinson (R). The top two vote recipients will advance to the general election on November 5.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Rep. Levin’s campaign has raised $1.9 million as of October 2023, and is not funded by police, fossil fuel, or corporate PAC interests.

Opposing candidate: Republican Sheryl Adams
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Adams’s campaign has raised $213,000 as of October 2023, and is not funded by police, real estate, fossil fuel, or corporate PAC interests. She has donated over $150,000 to her own campaign. 

Opposing candidate: Republican Matt Gunderson
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Gunderson’s campaign has raised $873,000 as of October 2023, and is funded by real estate interests.

Opposing candidate: Republican Kate Monroe
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Monroe’s campaign has raised $175,000 as of October 2023, and is primarily self-funded.

Opposing candidate: Republican Margarita Wilkinson
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Wilkinson’s campaign has raised $1 million as of October 2023, and has loaned her campaign $825,000.

The District


Counties in district: California’s 49th Congressional District includes parts of San Diego and Orange Counties.

Voter registration: 37% Democrat, 33% Republican, and 23% No Party Preference. This seat was held by Republicans until 2018 when Rep. Mike Levin won and flipped it from red to blue. 

District demographics: 20% Latino, 7% Asian, and 3% Black. 

Recent election results: CD-49 voted for Joe for president in 2020 by 11 points and Gavin Newsom for governor in 2022 by less than one point.

The Position


Congressmembers represent and advocate for the needs of their district constituents at the United States Capitol. They are responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation that addresses issues within their district.

The United States is divided into 435 congressional districts, each with a population of about 710,000 individuals. Each district elects a representative to the House of Representatives for a two-year term. California has 52 congressional representatives, the largest delegation in the country. There is no term limit for this position.


State Assembly

Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below State Assembly races on your ballot.

State Assembly, 59th District

Member of the State Assembly

No Recommendation

Based on our analysis, this district will be a safe Republican seat in the 2024 election cycle. While a Democratic candidate is unlikely to win, we recommend that you choose the candidate who best aligns to your values in this race. 



Governance, community leadership experience, and background: Democrat Dave Obrand has not previously run for public office.

Obrand is a litigation attorney, and spent the early years of his legal career in private practice, working primarily on cases related to public education, employment, contracts, and personal injury. He is currently serving as deputy county counsel for Orange County. 

The Race


Primary election: There are two candidates running in the March 5 primary, including Dave Obrand (D), and incumbent Assm. Phillip Chen (R). The top two vote recipients will advance to the general election on November 5.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Obrand’s campaign has raised $5,000 as of December 2023, and is not funded by police, real estate, fossil fuel, or corporate PAC interests.

Opposing candidate: Republican Assm. Phillip Chen
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Assm. Chen’s campaign has raised $492,000 as of December 2023, and is funded by police, real estate, fossil fuel, and corporate PAC interests.

The District


Counties in district: California’s 59th Assembly District includes parts of Orange and San Bernardino Counties.

Voter registration: 33% Democrat, 39% Republican, and 22% No Party Preference. Democrats held this district until 2020 when redistricting resulted in it flipping from blue to red. 

District demographics: 23% Latino, 20% Asian, and 2% Black. 

Recent election results: AD-59 voted for Donald Trump for president in 2020 by 1 point and Brian Dahle for governor in 2022 by 16 points.

The Position


State assemblymembers represent and advocate for the needs of their district constituents at the California State Capitol. They are responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation that addresses issues within their district.

The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the state Senate or Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a three-quarters supermajority of 60 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 19 seats and one seat is held by an Independent.


Based on our analysis, this district will be a safe Republican seat in the 2024 election cycle. While a Democratic candidate is unlikely to win, we recommend that you choose the candidate who best aligns to your values in this race. 



Governance, community leadership experience, and background: Democrat Dave Obrand has not previously run for public office.

Obrand is a litigation attorney, and spent the early years of his legal career in private practice, working primarily on cases related to public education, employment, contracts, and personal injury. He is currently serving as deputy county counsel for Orange County. 

The Race


Primary election: There are two candidates running in the March 5 primary, including Dave Obrand (D), and incumbent Assm. Phillip Chen (R). The top two vote recipients will advance to the general election on November 5.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Obrand’s campaign has raised $5,000 as of December 2023, and is not funded by police, real estate, fossil fuel, or corporate PAC interests.

Opposing candidate: Republican Assm. Phillip Chen
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Assm. Chen’s campaign has raised $492,000 as of December 2023, and is funded by police, real estate, fossil fuel, and corporate PAC interests.

The District


Counties in district: California’s 59th Assembly District includes parts of Orange and San Bernardino Counties.

Voter registration: 33% Democrat, 39% Republican, and 22% No Party Preference. Democrats held this district until 2020 when redistricting resulted in it flipping from blue to red. 

District demographics: 23% Latino, 20% Asian, and 2% Black. 

Recent election results: AD-59 voted for Donald Trump for president in 2020 by 1 point and Brian Dahle for governor in 2022 by 16 points.

The Position


State assemblymembers represent and advocate for the needs of their district constituents at the California State Capitol. They are responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation that addresses issues within their district.

The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the state Senate or Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a three-quarters supermajority of 60 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 19 seats and one seat is held by an Independent.


State Assembly, 67th District

Member of the State Assembly

Sharon Quirk-Silva photo
Democrat

Sharon Quirk-Silva

Website Endorsements

Re-elect Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva to keep AD-67 on the right track for progress. 



Based on our analysis, Assm. Sharon Quirk-Silva’s track record and policy positions demonstrate that she will continue to be a representative leader for the constituents of AD-67 and will govern effectively for this diverse district if she is subjected to increased community accountability.

Progressive endorsements: Assm. Quirk-Silva has the endorsement of some groups, including Equality California, California Legislative Women’s Caucus, and Orange County Labor Federation. She has also received the endorsement of many elected officials, including Gov. Gavin Newsom, Attorney General Rob Bonta, State Sen. María Elena Durazo, and Assm. Isaac Bryan. However, she has also received the endorsement of problematic stakeholders, including Association of Orange County Deputy Sheriffs, California Association of Highway Patrolmen, and Peace Officers Research Association of California.

Top issues: Mental health, education, building and development, and tourism.

Priority bills: This year, Assm. Quirk-Silva’s priorities for AD-67 have included 37 bills about building and development codes, improvement and standardization of mental health services, educational regulations, and services and parental rights for students with special needs. Of these, 11 have been successfully chaptered into law, one was vetoed, and most others remain in committee. She has sponsored and passed legislation to allow parents and guardians of students with special needs to record meetings with school staff, bolstering school aides for blind students, and increasing awareness of student mental health needs. She scores a Lifetime Courage Score of 41 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Assm. Quirk-Silva has supported few progressive bills that made it to a vote. This year, she failed to cast a vote on bills to prohibit the use of facial recognition software in police body cameras, strengthen the authority of the State Water Resources Control Board, restore personal visits to individuals who are incarcerated, and prohibit caste based discrimination. She is a member of the Problem Solvers Caucus, a bipartisan and bicameral group that claims that their collaborative work allows them to take a more holistic approach to evaluating legislation. In reality, the Problem Solvers Caucus actively works with problematic industries against progressive policies.

Committee leadership/membership: Assm. Quirk-Silva currently sits on 4 committees, including the Housing and Community Development committee. She chairs the committee on Arts, Entertainment, Sports, and Tourism. 

Governance and community leadership experience: Assm. Quirk-Silva began her service in the Assembly in 2012, when she defeated a Republican incumbent with 52% of the vote. She lost her reelection bid in 2014, but returned to the Assembly in 2016. In 2020, she won her re-election against Republican challenger Cynthia Thacker by 16 points.

Prior to her election to the Assembly, Assm. Quirk-Silva was a member of the Fullerton City Council and served two terms as mayor. Along with her public service, she had a 30-year career as a teacher, and has been a longtime supporter of education initiatives. She credits her time in the classroom as being the foundation of her collaborative approach to legislating, and her interest in listening to concerns and finding solutions. 

Other background: Assm. Quirk-Silva is a lifelong resident of Fullerton. 

The Race


Primary election: There are three candidates running in the March 5 primary, including incumbent Assm. Sharon Quirk-Silva (D), Jacob Woo Ho Lee (NPP), and Beth Culver (R). The top two vote recipients will advance to the general election on November 5.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Assm. Quirk-Silva’s campaign has raised $547,000 as of December 2023, and is funded by police, fossil fuel, corporate PAC, and real estate interests.

Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Neither of the challengers in this race have filed any campaign fundraising receipts with the Secretary of State’s office as of December 2023.

The District


Counties in district: California’s 67th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles and Orange Counties.

Voter registration: 44% Democrat, 26% Republican, and 25% No Party Preference. Democrats typically hold this district.

District demographics: 30% Latino, 32% Asian, and 5% Black. 

Recent election results: AD-67 voted for Joe Biden for president in 2020 by 20 points and Gavin Newsom for governor in 2022 by 8 points.

The Position


State assemblymembers represent and advocate for the needs of their district constituents at the California State Capitol. They are responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation that addresses issues within their district.

The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the state Senate or Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a three-quarters supermajority of 60 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 19 seats and one seat is held by an Independent.


Re-elect Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva to keep AD-67 on the right track for progress. 



Based on our analysis, Assm. Sharon Quirk-Silva’s track record and policy positions demonstrate that she will continue to be a representative leader for the constituents of AD-67 and will govern effectively for this diverse district if she is subjected to increased community accountability.

Progressive endorsements: Assm. Quirk-Silva has the endorsement of some groups, including Equality California, California Legislative Women’s Caucus, and Orange County Labor Federation. She has also received the endorsement of many elected officials, including Gov. Gavin Newsom, Attorney General Rob Bonta, State Sen. María Elena Durazo, and Assm. Isaac Bryan. However, she has also received the endorsement of problematic stakeholders, including Association of Orange County Deputy Sheriffs, California Association of Highway Patrolmen, and Peace Officers Research Association of California.

Top issues: Mental health, education, building and development, and tourism.

Priority bills: This year, Assm. Quirk-Silva’s priorities for AD-67 have included 37 bills about building and development codes, improvement and standardization of mental health services, educational regulations, and services and parental rights for students with special needs. Of these, 11 have been successfully chaptered into law, one was vetoed, and most others remain in committee. She has sponsored and passed legislation to allow parents and guardians of students with special needs to record meetings with school staff, bolstering school aides for blind students, and increasing awareness of student mental health needs. She scores a Lifetime Courage Score of 41 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Assm. Quirk-Silva has supported few progressive bills that made it to a vote. This year, she failed to cast a vote on bills to prohibit the use of facial recognition software in police body cameras, strengthen the authority of the State Water Resources Control Board, restore personal visits to individuals who are incarcerated, and prohibit caste based discrimination. She is a member of the Problem Solvers Caucus, a bipartisan and bicameral group that claims that their collaborative work allows them to take a more holistic approach to evaluating legislation. In reality, the Problem Solvers Caucus actively works with problematic industries against progressive policies.

Committee leadership/membership: Assm. Quirk-Silva currently sits on 4 committees, including the Housing and Community Development committee. She chairs the committee on Arts, Entertainment, Sports, and Tourism. 

Governance and community leadership experience: Assm. Quirk-Silva began her service in the Assembly in 2012, when she defeated a Republican incumbent with 52% of the vote. She lost her reelection bid in 2014, but returned to the Assembly in 2016. In 2020, she won her re-election against Republican challenger Cynthia Thacker by 16 points.

Prior to her election to the Assembly, Assm. Quirk-Silva was a member of the Fullerton City Council and served two terms as mayor. Along with her public service, she had a 30-year career as a teacher, and has been a longtime supporter of education initiatives. She credits her time in the classroom as being the foundation of her collaborative approach to legislating, and her interest in listening to concerns and finding solutions. 

Other background: Assm. Quirk-Silva is a lifelong resident of Fullerton. 

The Race


Primary election: There are three candidates running in the March 5 primary, including incumbent Assm. Sharon Quirk-Silva (D), Jacob Woo Ho Lee (NPP), and Beth Culver (R). The top two vote recipients will advance to the general election on November 5.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Assm. Quirk-Silva’s campaign has raised $547,000 as of December 2023, and is funded by police, fossil fuel, corporate PAC, and real estate interests.

Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Neither of the challengers in this race have filed any campaign fundraising receipts with the Secretary of State’s office as of December 2023.

The District


Counties in district: California’s 67th Assembly District includes parts of Los Angeles and Orange Counties.

Voter registration: 44% Democrat, 26% Republican, and 25% No Party Preference. Democrats typically hold this district.

District demographics: 30% Latino, 32% Asian, and 5% Black. 

Recent election results: AD-67 voted for Joe Biden for president in 2020 by 20 points and Gavin Newsom for governor in 2022 by 8 points.

The Position


State assemblymembers represent and advocate for the needs of their district constituents at the California State Capitol. They are responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation that addresses issues within their district.

The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the state Senate or Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a three-quarters supermajority of 60 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 19 seats and one seat is held by an Independent.


State Assembly, 68th District

Member of the State Assembly

No Recommendation

Based on our analysis, the two candidates for this position have distinct visions for the district. We recommend that you choose the candidate who best aligns to your values in this race.



Endorsements: Assm. Avelino Valencia has the endorsement of some groups, including Equality California, Planned Parenthood Action Fund of Orange and San Bernardino Counties, and AFSCME California.

Mike Tardif has not received the endorsement of any progressive groups. He is endorsed by the California Republican Party and the Orange County Republican Party.

Key initiatives: Assm. Valencia has passed legislation to modify continuing medical education for doctors and surgeons, require school district budget information to be published on their website, and establish a Citizens Redistricting Commission in Orange County. He scores a CS of 34 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records, and has been designated as a member of the Hall of Shame. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Assm. Valencia has supported few progressive bills that made it to a vote, and frequently failed to cast any vote on significant legislation. This year, Assm. Valencia failed to support bills that would allow resentencing for individuals impacted by firearm enhancements, prohibit the use of facial-recognition software in police body cameras, and cap security deposit requirements for renters.

Tardif is a Republican and has called for increased funding for law enforcement, more charter schools and school choice for parents, and eliminating the gas tax. He has called for the repeal of two recent progressive criminal justice measures—Proposition 47, which reduced some low-level drug and property crimes to misdemeanors, and Proposition 57, which amended juvenile justice standards, allowed parole consideration for nonviolent offenders, and permitted sentence credits for good behavior. 

Governance and community leadership experience: Assm. Valencia has served in this assembly seat since 2020, when he was elected with 51% of the vote. In 2022, he won his re-election against a Republican challenger by 25 points.

Prior to his election to the Assembly, Assm. Valencia was an Anaheim City Councilmember and district director for Assemblymember Tom Daly. Assm. Daly scored an all-time score of 32 out of 100 and was regularly in our Hall of Shame on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records, for siding with big corporations over workers, the environment, and tenants. Assm. Valencia has received support from the same problematic stakeholders. 

Tardif ran for this seat in 2022, and lost to Valencia by 24 points.

Tardif is a small business owner and contractor. He has served on the Santa Ana Community Development Commission, the Santa Ana Historic Resources Commission, and the Santa Ana Chamber of Commerce. He has been a longtime supporter of charter schools and increasing funding to the police.

Other background: Assm. Valencia is from Anaheim. He briefly played football in the NFL.

Tardif is from Orange County. 

 

The Race


Primary election: There are two candidates running in the March 5 primary: incumbent Assm. Avelino Valencia (D) and Mike Tardif (R). The top two vote recipients will advance to the general election on November 5.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Assm. Valencia’s campaign has raised $800,000, and is funded by police, fossil fuel, real estate, and corporate PAC interests.

Candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Tardif’s campaign has raised $2,000.

 

The District


Counties in district: California’s 68th Assembly District includes parts of Orange County.

Voter registration: 51% Democrat, 21% Republican, and 23% No Party Preference. Democrats typically hold this district.

District demographics: 56% Latino, 12% Asian, and 2% Black. This district is considered to be one of the strong Latino seats in the California Assembly delegation.

Recent election results: AD-68 voted for Joe Biden for president in 2020 by 36 points and Gavin Newsom for governor in 2022 by 22 points.

 

The Position


State assemblymembers represent and advocate for the needs of their district constituents at the California State Capitol. They are responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation that addresses issues within their district.

The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the state Senate or Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a three-quarters supermajority of 60 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 19 seats and one seat is held by an Independent.


 

Based on our analysis, the two candidates for this position have distinct visions for the district. We recommend that you choose the candidate who best aligns to your values in this race.



Endorsements: Assm. Avelino Valencia has the endorsement of some groups, including Equality California, Planned Parenthood Action Fund of Orange and San Bernardino Counties, and AFSCME California.

Mike Tardif has not received the endorsement of any progressive groups. He is endorsed by the California Republican Party and the Orange County Republican Party.

Key initiatives: Assm. Valencia has passed legislation to modify continuing medical education for doctors and surgeons, require school district budget information to be published on their website, and establish a Citizens Redistricting Commission in Orange County. He scores a CS of 34 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records, and has been designated as a member of the Hall of Shame. Based on our Courage Score analysis, Assm. Valencia has supported few progressive bills that made it to a vote, and frequently failed to cast any vote on significant legislation. This year, Assm. Valencia failed to support bills that would allow resentencing for individuals impacted by firearm enhancements, prohibit the use of facial-recognition software in police body cameras, and cap security deposit requirements for renters.

Tardif is a Republican and has called for increased funding for law enforcement, more charter schools and school choice for parents, and eliminating the gas tax. He has called for the repeal of two recent progressive criminal justice measures—Proposition 47, which reduced some low-level drug and property crimes to misdemeanors, and Proposition 57, which amended juvenile justice standards, allowed parole consideration for nonviolent offenders, and permitted sentence credits for good behavior. 

Governance and community leadership experience: Assm. Valencia has served in this assembly seat since 2020, when he was elected with 51% of the vote. In 2022, he won his re-election against a Republican challenger by 25 points.

Prior to his election to the Assembly, Assm. Valencia was an Anaheim City Councilmember and district director for Assemblymember Tom Daly. Assm. Daly scored an all-time score of 32 out of 100 and was regularly in our Hall of Shame on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records, for siding with big corporations over workers, the environment, and tenants. Assm. Valencia has received support from the same problematic stakeholders. 

Tardif ran for this seat in 2022, and lost to Valencia by 24 points.

Tardif is a small business owner and contractor. He has served on the Santa Ana Community Development Commission, the Santa Ana Historic Resources Commission, and the Santa Ana Chamber of Commerce. He has been a longtime supporter of charter schools and increasing funding to the police.

Other background: Assm. Valencia is from Anaheim. He briefly played football in the NFL.

Tardif is from Orange County. 

 

The Race


Primary election: There are two candidates running in the March 5 primary: incumbent Assm. Avelino Valencia (D) and Mike Tardif (R). The top two vote recipients will advance to the general election on November 5.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Assm. Valencia’s campaign has raised $800,000, and is funded by police, fossil fuel, real estate, and corporate PAC interests.

Candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Tardif’s campaign has raised $2,000.

 

The District


Counties in district: California’s 68th Assembly District includes parts of Orange County.

Voter registration: 51% Democrat, 21% Republican, and 23% No Party Preference. Democrats typically hold this district.

District demographics: 56% Latino, 12% Asian, and 2% Black. This district is considered to be one of the strong Latino seats in the California Assembly delegation.

Recent election results: AD-68 voted for Joe Biden for president in 2020 by 36 points and Gavin Newsom for governor in 2022 by 22 points.

 

The Position


State assemblymembers represent and advocate for the needs of their district constituents at the California State Capitol. They are responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation that addresses issues within their district.

The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the state Senate or Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a three-quarters supermajority of 60 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 19 seats and one seat is held by an Independent.


 

State Assembly, 71st District

Member of the State Assembly

No Recommendation

Based on our analysis, this district will be a safe Republican seat in the 2024 election cycle. While a Democratic candidate is unlikely to win, we recommend that you choose the candidate who best aligns to your values in this race. 



Governance, community leadership experience, and background: Gary Kephart has run for both the Assembly and the state Senate previously. In 2010, he lost his bid for AD-71 by 32 points. In 2014, he lost his bid for SD-36 by 32 points. 

Kephart is a software engineer. He served for six years on the Ladera Ranch Civic Council, which is a locally created organization that liaises with the county on public safety, public services, and business development. 

The Race


Primary election: There are three candidates running in the March 5 primary, including Gary Kephart (D), incumbent Assm. Kate Sanchez (R), and Babar Khan (PAF). The top two vote recipients will advance to the general election on November 5.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Kephart’s campaign has not filed any campaign fundraising receipts with the Secretary of State’s office as of December 2023.

Opposing candidate: Assm. Kate Sanchez
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Assm. Sanchez’s campaign has raised $186,000 as of December 2023, and is funded by police, real estate, fossil fuel, and corporate PAC interests.

The District


Counties in district: California’s 71st Assembly District includes parts of Riverside and Orange Counties.

Voter registration: 31% Democrat, 40% Republican, and 21% No Party Preference. Republicans typically hold this district.

District demographics: 20% Latino, 11% Asian, and 4% Black.

Recent election results: AD-71 voted for Donald Trump for president in 2020 by 7 points and Brian Dahle for governor in 2022 by 20 points.

The Position


State assemblymembers represent and advocate for the needs of their district constituents at the California State Capitol. They are responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation that addresses issues within their district.

The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the state Senate or Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a three-quarters supermajority of 60 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 19 seats and one seat is held by an Independent.


Based on our analysis, this district will be a safe Republican seat in the 2024 election cycle. While a Democratic candidate is unlikely to win, we recommend that you choose the candidate who best aligns to your values in this race. 



Governance, community leadership experience, and background: Gary Kephart has run for both the Assembly and the state Senate previously. In 2010, he lost his bid for AD-71 by 32 points. In 2014, he lost his bid for SD-36 by 32 points. 

Kephart is a software engineer. He served for six years on the Ladera Ranch Civic Council, which is a locally created organization that liaises with the county on public safety, public services, and business development. 

The Race


Primary election: There are three candidates running in the March 5 primary, including Gary Kephart (D), incumbent Assm. Kate Sanchez (R), and Babar Khan (PAF). The top two vote recipients will advance to the general election on November 5.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Kephart’s campaign has not filed any campaign fundraising receipts with the Secretary of State’s office as of December 2023.

Opposing candidate: Assm. Kate Sanchez
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Assm. Sanchez’s campaign has raised $186,000 as of December 2023, and is funded by police, real estate, fossil fuel, and corporate PAC interests.

The District


Counties in district: California’s 71st Assembly District includes parts of Riverside and Orange Counties.

Voter registration: 31% Democrat, 40% Republican, and 21% No Party Preference. Republicans typically hold this district.

District demographics: 20% Latino, 11% Asian, and 4% Black.

Recent election results: AD-71 voted for Donald Trump for president in 2020 by 7 points and Brian Dahle for governor in 2022 by 20 points.

The Position


State assemblymembers represent and advocate for the needs of their district constituents at the California State Capitol. They are responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation that addresses issues within their district.

The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the state Senate or Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a three-quarters supermajority of 60 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 19 seats and one seat is held by an Independent.


State Assembly, 72nd District

Member of the State Assembly

No Recommendation

Based on our analysis, this district will be a safe Republican seat in the 2024 election cycle. While a Democratic candidate is unlikely to win, we recommend that you choose the candidate who best aligns to your values in this race. 



Governance, community leadership experience, and background: Dom Jones was a candidate for the CD-47 seat being vacated by Rep. Katie Porter, but withdrew from that race to run for AD-72. 

Jones is a local small-business owner and activist. She co-founded the non-profits DemocraShe and You Matter Global Movement, and has contributed to initiatives intended to create more equity and representation in local leadership. She has established herself as a local leader through membership with the Democratic Party of Orange County’s Central Committee and the United Nations Association’s Orange County Chapter. Jones has owned a cycling and fitness studio for six years, and has worked as a local educator with special needs students. Jones is from Compton.

The Race


Primary election: There are two candidates running in the March 5 primary, including Dom Jones (D), and incumbent Assm. Diane Dixon (R). The top two vote recipients will advance to the general election on November 5.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Jones’s campaign has not filed any campaign fundraising receipts with the Secretary of State’s office as of December 2023.

Opposing candidate: Republican Assm. Diane Dixon
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Assm. Dixon’s campaign has raised $395,000 as of December 2023, and is funded by police, real estate, fossil fuel, and corporate PAC interests.

The District


Counties in district: California’s 72nd Assembly District includes parts of Orange County.

Voter registration: 33% Democrat, 39% Republican, and 22% No Party Preference. Republicans typically hold this district.

District demographics: 13% Latino, 13% Asian, and 2% Black. 
Recent election results: AD-72 voted for Joe Biden for president in 2020 by 2 points and Brian Dahle for governor in 2022 by 10 points.

The Position


State assemblymembers represent and advocate for the needs of their district constituents at the California State Capitol. They are responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation that addresses issues within their district.

The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the state Senate or Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a three-quarters supermajority of 60 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 19 seats and one seat is held by an Independent.


Based on our analysis, this district will be a safe Republican seat in the 2024 election cycle. While a Democratic candidate is unlikely to win, we recommend that you choose the candidate who best aligns to your values in this race. 



Governance, community leadership experience, and background: Dom Jones was a candidate for the CD-47 seat being vacated by Rep. Katie Porter, but withdrew from that race to run for AD-72. 

Jones is a local small-business owner and activist. She co-founded the non-profits DemocraShe and You Matter Global Movement, and has contributed to initiatives intended to create more equity and representation in local leadership. She has established herself as a local leader through membership with the Democratic Party of Orange County’s Central Committee and the United Nations Association’s Orange County Chapter. Jones has owned a cycling and fitness studio for six years, and has worked as a local educator with special needs students. Jones is from Compton.

The Race


Primary election: There are two candidates running in the March 5 primary, including Dom Jones (D), and incumbent Assm. Diane Dixon (R). The top two vote recipients will advance to the general election on November 5.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Jones’s campaign has not filed any campaign fundraising receipts with the Secretary of State’s office as of December 2023.

Opposing candidate: Republican Assm. Diane Dixon
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Assm. Dixon’s campaign has raised $395,000 as of December 2023, and is funded by police, real estate, fossil fuel, and corporate PAC interests.

The District


Counties in district: California’s 72nd Assembly District includes parts of Orange County.

Voter registration: 33% Democrat, 39% Republican, and 22% No Party Preference. Republicans typically hold this district.

District demographics: 13% Latino, 13% Asian, and 2% Black. 
Recent election results: AD-72 voted for Joe Biden for president in 2020 by 2 points and Brian Dahle for governor in 2022 by 10 points.

The Position


State assemblymembers represent and advocate for the needs of their district constituents at the California State Capitol. They are responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation that addresses issues within their district.

The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the state Senate or Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a three-quarters supermajority of 60 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 19 seats and one seat is held by an Independent.


State Assembly, 73rd District

Member of the State Assembly

No Recommendation

Based on our analysis, the three candidates for this position have distinct visions for the district. We recommend that you choose the candidate who best aligns to your values in this race.



Endorsements: Assm. Cottie Petrie-Norris has the endorsement of some progressive groups, including Equality California, AFSCME California, and California Teachers Association. She has also received endorsements from many problematic stakeholders, including California Association of Highway Patrolmen, Peace Officers Research Association of California, and California Correctional Peace Officers Association.

Scotty Peotter has not received the endorsement of any progressive groups. 

Hengameh “Henny” Abraham has not received the endorsement of any progressive groups.

Key initiatives: Assm. Petrie Norris’s priorities for AD-73 this year have included 18 bills about workforce development, drug regulation and safety, and income tax law. Of these, five have been chaptered into law, and the rest remain in committee. This session, she has successfully passed legislation designed to prohibit insurers from withholding medical malpractice insurance from doctors providing abortion or gender-affirming care, and create new penalties for using social media to distribute fentanyl. However, Assm. Petrie-Norris scored a CS of 48 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, she failed to support the majority of progressive bills that made it to a vote, and has been designated as a member of the Hall of Shame. A frequent recipient of police donations, she has consistently voted against or failed to cast a vote on law-enforcement policies that would increase accountability, including AB1034 to ban the use of facial-recognition software in body cameras, AB93 to ban warrantless searches, and AB1310 to allow resentencing for individuals impacted by firearm enhancements. Although she serves as chair of the Select Committee on Green Innovation and Entrepreneurship, she has also failed to support recent climate-justice legislation, including skipping votes for AB460 to strengthen the authority of the State Water Resources Control Board, and AB985 to strengthen emissions-reduction enforcement in the San Joaquin Valley.

Peotter had a controversial term on the Newport Beach City Council, and was targeted for an unsuccessful recall effort in 2017 after he made homophobic comments during a public council meeting. He also drew criticism from constituents for his support of a private condominium project and opposition of city building projects, like a new library and a fire station.

Abraham has been active in local political and advocacy campaigns in recent years. She served as a campaign manager for former Assm. Steven Choi in 2022 as he unsuccessfully challenged Assm. Petrie-Norris for the newly redrawn AD-73 seat. An Iranian-American, she has also been active in organizing local protests and supporting Orange County cities as they drafted and passed resolutions condemning misogynistic human-rights abuses in the country after the death of Mahsa Amini.

Governance and community leadership experience: Assm. Petrie-Norris has served in the Assembly since 2018, when she was elected with over 52% of the vote. In 2022, she won re-election against a Republican challenger by 12 points. 

Prior to her election, Assm. Petrie Norris was a business leader, working primarily in finance and technology. 

Peotter was elected to the Newport Beach City Council in 2014 after winning over 51% of the vote. He served one term. 

Peotter is president of Aslan Companies, a building and development firm that provides project management from land acquisition to architectural services. 

Abraham ran for Costa Mesa City Council in 2020, but lost after earning just 19% of the vote.

Abraham is the co-owner of a wellness business. She is also a homeschool teacher for her son, who she pulled from the local school system in 2022 because of her concerns about mask mandates, HPV vaccination requirements, and curriculum issues. 

Other background: Assm. Petrie-Norris is from San Diego. 

Peotter is a longtime resident of Newport Beach.

Abraham is a longtime resident of Costa Mesa.

The Race


Primary election: There are three candidates running in the March 5 primary, including incumbent Assm. Cottie Petrie-Norris (D), Scotty Peotter (R), and Hengameh “Henny” Abraham (R). The top two vote recipients will advance to the general election on November 5.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Assm. Petrie-Norris’s campaign has raised $608,000 as of December 2023, and is funded by police, real estate, corporate PAC, and fossil fuel interests.

Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: The challengers in this race have not filed any campaign fundraising receipts with the Secretary of State’s office as of December 2023.

The District


Counties in district: California’s 73rd Assembly District includes parts of Orange County.

Voter registration: 40% Democrat, 27% Republican, and 27% No Party Preference. Republicans held this district until 2020, when Assm. Petrie-Norris won and flipped it from red to blue. 

District demographics: 28% Latino, 17% Asian, and 2% Black. 

Recent election results: AD-73 voted for Joe Biden for president in 2020 by 26 points and Brian Dahle for governor in 2022 by 16 points.

The Position


State assemblymembers represent and advocate for the needs of their district constituents at the California State Capitol. They are responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation that addresses issues within their district.

The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the state Senate or Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a three-quarters supermajority of 60 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 19 seats and one seat is held by an Independent.


Based on our analysis, the three candidates for this position have distinct visions for the district. We recommend that you choose the candidate who best aligns to your values in this race.



Endorsements: Assm. Cottie Petrie-Norris has the endorsement of some progressive groups, including Equality California, AFSCME California, and California Teachers Association. She has also received endorsements from many problematic stakeholders, including California Association of Highway Patrolmen, Peace Officers Research Association of California, and California Correctional Peace Officers Association.

Scotty Peotter has not received the endorsement of any progressive groups. 

Hengameh “Henny” Abraham has not received the endorsement of any progressive groups.

Key initiatives: Assm. Petrie Norris’s priorities for AD-73 this year have included 18 bills about workforce development, drug regulation and safety, and income tax law. Of these, five have been chaptered into law, and the rest remain in committee. This session, she has successfully passed legislation designed to prohibit insurers from withholding medical malpractice insurance from doctors providing abortion or gender-affirming care, and create new penalties for using social media to distribute fentanyl. However, Assm. Petrie-Norris scored a CS of 48 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting records. Based on our Courage Score analysis, she failed to support the majority of progressive bills that made it to a vote, and has been designated as a member of the Hall of Shame. A frequent recipient of police donations, she has consistently voted against or failed to cast a vote on law-enforcement policies that would increase accountability, including AB1034 to ban the use of facial-recognition software in body cameras, AB93 to ban warrantless searches, and AB1310 to allow resentencing for individuals impacted by firearm enhancements. Although she serves as chair of the Select Committee on Green Innovation and Entrepreneurship, she has also failed to support recent climate-justice legislation, including skipping votes for AB460 to strengthen the authority of the State Water Resources Control Board, and AB985 to strengthen emissions-reduction enforcement in the San Joaquin Valley.

Peotter had a controversial term on the Newport Beach City Council, and was targeted for an unsuccessful recall effort in 2017 after he made homophobic comments during a public council meeting. He also drew criticism from constituents for his support of a private condominium project and opposition of city building projects, like a new library and a fire station.

Abraham has been active in local political and advocacy campaigns in recent years. She served as a campaign manager for former Assm. Steven Choi in 2022 as he unsuccessfully challenged Assm. Petrie-Norris for the newly redrawn AD-73 seat. An Iranian-American, she has also been active in organizing local protests and supporting Orange County cities as they drafted and passed resolutions condemning misogynistic human-rights abuses in the country after the death of Mahsa Amini.

Governance and community leadership experience: Assm. Petrie-Norris has served in the Assembly since 2018, when she was elected with over 52% of the vote. In 2022, she won re-election against a Republican challenger by 12 points. 

Prior to her election, Assm. Petrie Norris was a business leader, working primarily in finance and technology. 

Peotter was elected to the Newport Beach City Council in 2014 after winning over 51% of the vote. He served one term. 

Peotter is president of Aslan Companies, a building and development firm that provides project management from land acquisition to architectural services. 

Abraham ran for Costa Mesa City Council in 2020, but lost after earning just 19% of the vote.

Abraham is the co-owner of a wellness business. She is also a homeschool teacher for her son, who she pulled from the local school system in 2022 because of her concerns about mask mandates, HPV vaccination requirements, and curriculum issues. 

Other background: Assm. Petrie-Norris is from San Diego. 

Peotter is a longtime resident of Newport Beach.

Abraham is a longtime resident of Costa Mesa.

The Race


Primary election: There are three candidates running in the March 5 primary, including incumbent Assm. Cottie Petrie-Norris (D), Scotty Peotter (R), and Hengameh “Henny” Abraham (R). The top two vote recipients will advance to the general election on November 5.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Assm. Petrie-Norris’s campaign has raised $608,000 as of December 2023, and is funded by police, real estate, corporate PAC, and fossil fuel interests.

Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: The challengers in this race have not filed any campaign fundraising receipts with the Secretary of State’s office as of December 2023.

The District


Counties in district: California’s 73rd Assembly District includes parts of Orange County.

Voter registration: 40% Democrat, 27% Republican, and 27% No Party Preference. Republicans held this district until 2020, when Assm. Petrie-Norris won and flipped it from red to blue. 

District demographics: 28% Latino, 17% Asian, and 2% Black. 

Recent election results: AD-73 voted for Joe Biden for president in 2020 by 26 points and Brian Dahle for governor in 2022 by 16 points.

The Position


State assemblymembers represent and advocate for the needs of their district constituents at the California State Capitol. They are responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation that addresses issues within their district.

The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the state Senate or Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a three-quarters supermajority of 60 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 19 seats and one seat is held by an Independent.


State Assembly, 74th District

Member of the State Assembly

Chris Duncan photo
Democrat

Chris Duncan

Website Endorsements

Elect Chris Duncan to put AD-74 on the right track for progress. 



Chris Duncan’s track record and policy positions demonstrate that he will be a progressive voice for the constituents of AD-74 and will govern effectively in the best interests of this diverse district.

Progressive endorsements: Duncan has the endorsement of some progressive groups, including SEIU California, Planned Parenthood Action Fund of Orange and San Bernardino Counties, and California Teachers Association. He has also received the endorsement of some elected leaders, including Speaker Robert Rivas, State Sen. Josh Becker, Assm. Rebecca Bauer-Kahan, Laguna Beach Mayor Bob Whalen, and many local council members.

Electoral history: Duncan was elected to the San Clemente City Council in 2020 after earning 19% of the vote. This is his third run for State Assembly. In 2020, he failed to advance out of the primary after earning only 18% of the vote. In 2022, he lost in the general election to incumbent Assm. Laurie Davies by 5 points. 

Top issues: Growth of the middle class, public safety, and government transparency.

Governance and community leadership experience: Duncan is a local public official and an attorney, which he does to support  a stronger focus on building the middle class and eliminating government corruption that weakens communities. He was inspired to this work after 9/11, and spent over 15 years as a prosecutor for the Department of Homeland Security where he worked on corruption, immigration, and terrorism cases. He was elected to the San Clemente City Council in 2020, and currently serves as mayor. During his time on the council, Duncan has supported initiatives to protect the coastline, North Beach revitalization, and address homelessness. 

Other background: Duncan is a third-generation Californian. 

The Race


Primary election: There are two candidates running in the March 5 primary, including Chris Duncan (D), and incumbent Assm. Laurie Davies (R). The two candidates will advance to the general election on November 5.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Duncan’s campaign has raised $352,000 as of December 2023, and is not funded by police, real estate, or fossil fuel interests.

Opposing candidate: Republican Assm. Laurie Davies
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Assm. Davies’s campaign has raised $494,000 as of December 2023, and is funded by police, corporate PAC, fossil fuel, and real estate interests.

The District


Counties in district: California’s 74th Assembly District includes parts of San Diego and Orange Counties.

Voter registration: 35% Democrat, 34% Republican, and 22% No Party Preference. Partisan control of this district has changed several times over the last 10 years. 

District demographics: 24% Latino, 7% Asian, and 4% Black. 

Recent election results: AD-74 voted for Joe Biden for president in 2020 by 6 points and Brian Dahle for governor in 2022 by 4 points.

The Position


State assemblymembers represent and advocate for the needs of their district constituents at the California State Capitol. They are responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation that addresses issues within their district.

The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the state Senate or Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a three-quarters supermajority of 60 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 19 seats and one seat is held by an Independent.


Elect Chris Duncan to put AD-74 on the right track for progress. 



Chris Duncan’s track record and policy positions demonstrate that he will be a progressive voice for the constituents of AD-74 and will govern effectively in the best interests of this diverse district.

Progressive endorsements: Duncan has the endorsement of some progressive groups, including SEIU California, Planned Parenthood Action Fund of Orange and San Bernardino Counties, and California Teachers Association. He has also received the endorsement of some elected leaders, including Speaker Robert Rivas, State Sen. Josh Becker, Assm. Rebecca Bauer-Kahan, Laguna Beach Mayor Bob Whalen, and many local council members.

Electoral history: Duncan was elected to the San Clemente City Council in 2020 after earning 19% of the vote. This is his third run for State Assembly. In 2020, he failed to advance out of the primary after earning only 18% of the vote. In 2022, he lost in the general election to incumbent Assm. Laurie Davies by 5 points. 

Top issues: Growth of the middle class, public safety, and government transparency.

Governance and community leadership experience: Duncan is a local public official and an attorney, which he does to support  a stronger focus on building the middle class and eliminating government corruption that weakens communities. He was inspired to this work after 9/11, and spent over 15 years as a prosecutor for the Department of Homeland Security where he worked on corruption, immigration, and terrorism cases. He was elected to the San Clemente City Council in 2020, and currently serves as mayor. During his time on the council, Duncan has supported initiatives to protect the coastline, North Beach revitalization, and address homelessness. 

Other background: Duncan is a third-generation Californian. 

The Race


Primary election: There are two candidates running in the March 5 primary, including Chris Duncan (D), and incumbent Assm. Laurie Davies (R). The two candidates will advance to the general election on November 5.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Duncan’s campaign has raised $352,000 as of December 2023, and is not funded by police, real estate, or fossil fuel interests.

Opposing candidate: Republican Assm. Laurie Davies
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Assm. Davies’s campaign has raised $494,000 as of December 2023, and is funded by police, corporate PAC, fossil fuel, and real estate interests.

The District


Counties in district: California’s 74th Assembly District includes parts of San Diego and Orange Counties.

Voter registration: 35% Democrat, 34% Republican, and 22% No Party Preference. Partisan control of this district has changed several times over the last 10 years. 

District demographics: 24% Latino, 7% Asian, and 4% Black. 

Recent election results: AD-74 voted for Joe Biden for president in 2020 by 6 points and Brian Dahle for governor in 2022 by 4 points.

The Position


State assemblymembers represent and advocate for the needs of their district constituents at the California State Capitol. They are responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation that addresses issues within their district.

The California State Assembly has 80 districts. Each represents a population of at least 465,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Assembly for a two-year term. Every two years, all 80 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to three two-year terms (six years) in the Assembly. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the state Senate or Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a three-quarters supermajority of 60 seats in the California State Assembly, while Republicans hold 19 seats and one seat is held by an Independent.


State Senator, 37th District

Member of the State Senate

Alex Mohajer photo
Democrat

Alex Mohajer

Website Endorsements

Elect Alex Mohajer for State Senate to put SD-37 on the right track for progress. 



Alex Mohajer’s policy positions demonstrate that he will be a progressive voice for the constituents of SD-37 and will govern effectively in the best interests of this diverse district.

Progressive endorsements: Mohajer has the endorsement of some progressive groups, including California Working Families Party, Sunrise Movement, Chispa, Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund, CA Democratic Renters Council, Stonewall Democrats, and Safer California. 

Electoral history: Mohajer has not run for office previously.

Top issues: Public education, political representation, mental health and health care, workers’ rights, and the environment.

Governance and community leadership experience: Alex Mohajer is a political journalist, civil service advocate, and organizer, which he does because of his desire to make the world more just. As a civil service advocate for LA County, he investigates reports of sexual harassment and discrimination. He is a longtime supporter of political advocacy, frequently mobilizing younger voters through digital organizing. He produced the National Vote-at-Home Initiative in 2019, a voter-registration effort that registered 30,000 voters in swing states. He is proudly gay and has advocated for LGBTQIA+ rights, and was the first ever Iranian American elected as president of the Stonewall Democrats, one of the oldest LGBT political organizations in the country.

Other background: Mohajer is from Irvine. He is a first-generation American, the son of Iranian immigrants. He earned his BA from UC Berkeley and a law degree from Chapman University. 

 

The Race


Primary election: There are 10 candidates running in the March 5 primary, including Alex Mohajer (D), Senator Josh Newman (D), Steve Choi (R), Crystal Miles (R), and Guy Selleck (R). The top two vote recipients will advance to the general election on November 5.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Mohajer’s campaign has raised $184,167 and is not funded by corporate PACs, the fossil fuel industry, the real estate industry, or the police. His campaign is almost entirely funded by small donations from individual voters.

Opposing candidate: Senator Josh Newman
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Sen. Newman’s campaign has raised $2.1 million as of December 2023, and is funded by police, fossil fuel, corporate PAC, and real estate interests. Notably, Sen. Josh Newman is the current representative for SD-29, and has transitioned to run for this seat as a result of redistricting. Sen. Newman maintains some constituents in this new district, and has been backed by many labor unions, and members of party leadership. Sen. Newman has a lifetime score of 54 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting record, for opposing or not voting on key bills.

Opposing candidate: Republicans Crystal Miles, Steve Choi, Guy Selleck
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Miles’ campaign has raised $162,245 and is funded by the real estate industry. Selleck’s campaign has raised $146,770, although he has loaned close to $120,000 to his own campaign. He has also accepted donations from corporate PACs. Choi’s campaign has raised $40,070 and is also funded by the real estate industry. 

 

The District


Counties in district: California’s 37th State Senate District includes parts of Orange County.

Voter registration: 37% Democrat, 33% Republican, and 25% No Party Preference. This is typically a swing district, but has more often been won by Republicans.

District demographics: 18% Latino, 21% Asian, and 2% Black. 

Recent election results: SD-37 voted for Joe Biden for president in 2020 by 13 points and Gavin Newsom for governor in 2022 by 1 point.

 

The Position


State senators represent and advocate for the needs of their district constituents at the California State Capitol. They are responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation that addresses issues within their district.

The California State Senate has 40 districts. Each represents a population of about 930,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Senate for a four-year term. Every two years, half of the Senate’s 40 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to two four-year terms (eight years) in the Senate. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the state Senate or Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 31 seats in the California State Senate, while Republicans hold 9 seats.


 

Elect Alex Mohajer for State Senate to put SD-37 on the right track for progress. 



Alex Mohajer’s policy positions demonstrate that he will be a progressive voice for the constituents of SD-37 and will govern effectively in the best interests of this diverse district.

Progressive endorsements: Mohajer has the endorsement of some progressive groups, including California Working Families Party, Sunrise Movement, Chispa, Center for Biological Diversity Action Fund, CA Democratic Renters Council, Stonewall Democrats, and Safer California. 

Electoral history: Mohajer has not run for office previously.

Top issues: Public education, political representation, mental health and health care, workers’ rights, and the environment.

Governance and community leadership experience: Alex Mohajer is a political journalist, civil service advocate, and organizer, which he does because of his desire to make the world more just. As a civil service advocate for LA County, he investigates reports of sexual harassment and discrimination. He is a longtime supporter of political advocacy, frequently mobilizing younger voters through digital organizing. He produced the National Vote-at-Home Initiative in 2019, a voter-registration effort that registered 30,000 voters in swing states. He is proudly gay and has advocated for LGBTQIA+ rights, and was the first ever Iranian American elected as president of the Stonewall Democrats, one of the oldest LGBT political organizations in the country.

Other background: Mohajer is from Irvine. He is a first-generation American, the son of Iranian immigrants. He earned his BA from UC Berkeley and a law degree from Chapman University. 

 

The Race


Primary election: There are 10 candidates running in the March 5 primary, including Alex Mohajer (D), Senator Josh Newman (D), Steve Choi (R), Crystal Miles (R), and Guy Selleck (R). The top two vote recipients will advance to the general election on November 5.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Mohajer’s campaign has raised $184,167 and is not funded by corporate PACs, the fossil fuel industry, the real estate industry, or the police. His campaign is almost entirely funded by small donations from individual voters.

Opposing candidate: Senator Josh Newman
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Sen. Newman’s campaign has raised $2.1 million as of December 2023, and is funded by police, fossil fuel, corporate PAC, and real estate interests. Notably, Sen. Josh Newman is the current representative for SD-29, and has transitioned to run for this seat as a result of redistricting. Sen. Newman maintains some constituents in this new district, and has been backed by many labor unions, and members of party leadership. Sen. Newman has a lifetime score of 54 out of 100 on Courage Score, our annual analysis of legislators’ progressive voting record, for opposing or not voting on key bills.

Opposing candidate: Republicans Crystal Miles, Steve Choi, Guy Selleck
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Miles’ campaign has raised $162,245 and is funded by the real estate industry. Selleck’s campaign has raised $146,770, although he has loaned close to $120,000 to his own campaign. He has also accepted donations from corporate PACs. Choi’s campaign has raised $40,070 and is also funded by the real estate industry. 

 

The District


Counties in district: California’s 37th State Senate District includes parts of Orange County.

Voter registration: 37% Democrat, 33% Republican, and 25% No Party Preference. This is typically a swing district, but has more often been won by Republicans.

District demographics: 18% Latino, 21% Asian, and 2% Black. 

Recent election results: SD-37 voted for Joe Biden for president in 2020 by 13 points and Gavin Newsom for governor in 2022 by 1 point.

 

The Position


State senators represent and advocate for the needs of their district constituents at the California State Capitol. They are responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation that addresses issues within their district.

The California State Senate has 40 districts. Each represents a population of about 930,000 Californians. Representatives are elected to the Senate for a four-year term. Every two years, half of the Senate’s 40 seats are subject to election. Members elected before 2012 are restricted to two four-year terms (eight years) in the Senate. Those elected in or after 2012 are allowed to serve 12 years total across both the state Senate or Assembly. This term, Democrats currently hold a two-thirds supermajority of 31 seats in the California State Senate, while Republicans hold 9 seats.


 

Orange County, District 3

Depending on where you live, you may have the below county-districted races on your ballot.

Orange County Board of Supervisors, District 3

Farrah Khan photo
Non-Partisan

Farrah Khan

Website

Elect Farrah Khan to put Orange County on the right track for progress. 



Farrah Khan’s track record and policy positions demonstrate that she will be a progressive voice for the constituents of Orange County and will govern effectively in the best interests of this diverse district.

Progressive endorsements: Khan has the endorsement of some local groups, including Planned Parenthood Community Action Fund of Orange & San Bernardino Counties, Orange County Labor Federation, the Democratic Party of Orange County, and the Irvine Democratic Club.

Electoral history: Khan ran for Irvine City Council in 2016, but lost after only earning 11% of the vote. In 2018, she ran again for Irvine City Council and won her seat with nearly 16% of the vote. In 2020, she ran for Irvine mayor, and won the race with over 47% of the vote. She was reelected to the mayor’s office in 2022 with over 37% of the vote. 

Top issues: Economic investment and development, homelessness and housing, mental health and substance abuse programs, expand health-care access, open-space protection, transportation equity, and public education.

Governance and community leadership experience: Khan is the mayor of Irvine, which she does to bring focused leadership to improve the city’s growth and innovation. Since her election in 2018, she has made a measurable impact on a variety of local initiatives, including a ban on smoking in public places, partnering with Be Well OC to provide mental health resources, expanding transit development and bike and pedestrian infrastructure, and addressing zoning limitations to expand affordable housing development. She was also instrumental in guiding the city’s proactive response to COVID-19 and the vaccine rollout. Prior to her election to city government, Khan was a biotech professional, holding managerial positions at Northview Pacific Labs and Chiron Corporation before spending 10 years as the co-owner of Sequoia Foods LLC, a food manufacturing and packing plant. 

Other background: Khan is from northern California, and has lived in Irvine for 20 years. She is the first woman of color and the first Muslim woman to serve as mayor of Irvine.

The Race


Primary election: There are two candidates running in the nonpartisan March 5 primary, including Farrah Khan, and incumbent OC Supervisor Don Wagner. A candidate can win this race outright in the March 5 primary if they receive more than 50% of the vote.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Khan’s campaign has raised $49,000 as of December 2023, and is not funded by police corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or real estate interests.

Opposing candidate: Sup. Don Wagner
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Sup. Wagner’s campaign has raised $185,000 as of December 2023, and is funded by police and real estate interests.

The District


County: Orange County is California’s third most populous county. District 3 includes 630,000 people residing in the areas of Anaheim Hills, Irvine, Lake Forest, Tustin, North Tustin, Villa Park, Orange, Mission Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, Yorba Linda, and some unincorporated areas.

Governance structure: Orange County’s Board of Supervisors oversees the needs of 3.1 million people and manages an estimated budget of $9.3 billion annually. According to the County Charter, Orange County is governed by a five-person Board of Supervisors with the support of the county executive officer who acts as their agent.

The Position


Each of the 58 counties in California is governed by a five-person Board of Supervisors. A Board of Supervisors has legislative and executive power to manage county services and resources, including courts, jails, public health, and public lands. They also have quasi-judicial powers, which gives them the right to hold hearings, conduct investigations, and make decisions in a manner similar to judicial courts. Laws passed by Boards of Supervisors are generally called ordinances. Because counties include both incorporated cities, which are administered by their own city councils, and unincorporated areas, which are directly administered by the county, ordinances may or may not apply in different areas of the county. Orange County Supervisors are ‎limited to 2 terms, or 8 years in office total. 


Elect Farrah Khan to put Orange County on the right track for progress. 



Farrah Khan’s track record and policy positions demonstrate that she will be a progressive voice for the constituents of Orange County and will govern effectively in the best interests of this diverse district.

Progressive endorsements: Khan has the endorsement of some local groups, including Planned Parenthood Community Action Fund of Orange & San Bernardino Counties, Orange County Labor Federation, the Democratic Party of Orange County, and the Irvine Democratic Club.

Electoral history: Khan ran for Irvine City Council in 2016, but lost after only earning 11% of the vote. In 2018, she ran again for Irvine City Council and won her seat with nearly 16% of the vote. In 2020, she ran for Irvine mayor, and won the race with over 47% of the vote. She was reelected to the mayor’s office in 2022 with over 37% of the vote. 

Top issues: Economic investment and development, homelessness and housing, mental health and substance abuse programs, expand health-care access, open-space protection, transportation equity, and public education.

Governance and community leadership experience: Khan is the mayor of Irvine, which she does to bring focused leadership to improve the city’s growth and innovation. Since her election in 2018, she has made a measurable impact on a variety of local initiatives, including a ban on smoking in public places, partnering with Be Well OC to provide mental health resources, expanding transit development and bike and pedestrian infrastructure, and addressing zoning limitations to expand affordable housing development. She was also instrumental in guiding the city’s proactive response to COVID-19 and the vaccine rollout. Prior to her election to city government, Khan was a biotech professional, holding managerial positions at Northview Pacific Labs and Chiron Corporation before spending 10 years as the co-owner of Sequoia Foods LLC, a food manufacturing and packing plant. 

Other background: Khan is from northern California, and has lived in Irvine for 20 years. She is the first woman of color and the first Muslim woman to serve as mayor of Irvine.

The Race


Primary election: There are two candidates running in the nonpartisan March 5 primary, including Farrah Khan, and incumbent OC Supervisor Don Wagner. A candidate can win this race outright in the March 5 primary if they receive more than 50% of the vote.

Candidate fundraising and pledges: Khan’s campaign has raised $49,000 as of December 2023, and is not funded by police corporate PAC, fossil fuel, or real estate interests.

Opposing candidate: Sup. Don Wagner
Opposing candidate’s fundraising and pledges: Sup. Wagner’s campaign has raised $185,000 as of December 2023, and is funded by police and real estate interests.

The District


County: Orange County is California’s third most populous county. District 3 includes 630,000 people residing in the areas of Anaheim Hills, Irvine, Lake Forest, Tustin, North Tustin, Villa Park, Orange, Mission Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, Yorba Linda, and some unincorporated areas.

Governance structure: Orange County’s Board of Supervisors oversees the needs of 3.1 million people and manages an estimated budget of $9.3 billion annually. According to the County Charter, Orange County is governed by a five-person Board of Supervisors with the support of the county executive officer who acts as their agent.

The Position


Each of the 58 counties in California is governed by a five-person Board of Supervisors. A Board of Supervisors has legislative and executive power to manage county services and resources, including courts, jails, public health, and public lands. They also have quasi-judicial powers, which gives them the right to hold hearings, conduct investigations, and make decisions in a manner similar to judicial courts. Laws passed by Boards of Supervisors are generally called ordinances. Because counties include both incorporated cities, which are administered by their own city councils, and unincorporated areas, which are directly administered by the county, ordinances may or may not apply in different areas of the county. Orange County Supervisors are ‎limited to 2 terms, or 8 years in office total. 


Statewide Ballot Measures

Proposition #1

No Position

Vote on Proposition 1

Proposition 1 will establish a $6.4 billion bond to fund an increase in the number of treatment beds and housing units the state provides to individuals struggling with mental health and addiction, and to direct counties to reallocate their Mental Health Services Act funding to address the local housing shortage.



In an effort to address an ongoing housing shortage and addiction crisis in the state, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed two bills—SB326 and AB531—to send a $6.4 billion bond measure to voters in March. This bond would be used to increase capacity in health care and housing across the state by adding 6,800 behavioral health treatment beds, building 4,300 housing units, and creating 26,000 outpatient treatment slots for Californians. Proposition 1 would also require each county to redirect 30% of its Mental Health Services Act funding to housing, including creating new real estate development, and the provision of rental subsidies. Mental Health Services Act funds are raised through a tax on millionaires in the state, and the reallocated portion is expected to total $1 billion annually across the state. Overall, Proposition 1 aims to reduce homelessness and tent encampments, and provide support to individuals who do not have the resources to address behavioral health challenges. 

Top support for Proposition 1:


- The legislation that sent Proposition 1 to voters received overwhelming support from the state legislature. SB326 received a unanimous floor vote in the Senate, and earned 68 floor votes in the Assembly. AB531 received 35 floor votes in the Senate, and 66 floor votes in the Assembly. 
- YES ON 1 has received over $10.7 million in donations, primarily through Yes on Prop 1—Governor Newsom’s Ballot Measure Committee. The committee has received donations from police, fossil fuel, real estate, and corporate PAC interests, including from California Correctional Peace Officers Association Truth in American Government Fund, AirBnB, Google, and PG&E. 
- Gov. Gavin Newsom has enthusiastically supported Proposition 1, arguing that the establishment of more treatment options and housing units has the potential to have a significant impact on marginalized populations within the state over time, and is a humane approach to this ongoing public health crisis. 

Top opposition to Proposition 1:


- Groups like Disability Rights California and the League of Women Voters California are concerned that this policy could be interpreted to permit involuntary treatment of mental health and addiction patients in locked facilities. They argue that this aspect of the bill is regressive and is the result of hasty passage, a lack of meaningful legislative debate, and limited input from community groups. Republican activist Carl DeMaio, his conservative PAC Reform California, and the anti-tax Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association are also opposing Proposition 1.
- Some housing and homeless advocates have criticized Proposition 1’s narrow projected impact on a statewide homeless population that is estimated to include 180,000 people. With over half of the proposed new housing units earmarked for veterans, the number of homeless civilians who will benefit from this program is statistically insignificant.
- Proposition 1 has raised concerns among opponents—including several counties and county leaders—around its mandate that 30% of county Mental Health Services Act funding be allocated to address local housing shortages. Stripping funding out of this budget line to fund housing programs will disrupt existing and effective county mental health programs, many of which are tailored to serve marginalized local populations, including Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and people of color. 

Proposition 1 will establish a $6.4 billion bond to fund an increase in the number of treatment beds and housing units the state provides to individuals struggling with mental health and addiction, and to direct counties to reallocate their Mental Health Services Act funding to address the local housing shortage.



In an effort to address an ongoing housing shortage and addiction crisis in the state, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed two bills—SB326 and AB531—to send a $6.4 billion bond measure to voters in March. This bond would be used to increase capacity in health care and housing across the state by adding 6,800 behavioral health treatment beds, building 4,300 housing units, and creating 26,000 outpatient treatment slots for Californians. Proposition 1 would also require each county to redirect 30% of its Mental Health Services Act funding to housing, including creating new real estate development, and the provision of rental subsidies. Mental Health Services Act funds are raised through a tax on millionaires in the state, and the reallocated portion is expected to total $1 billion annually across the state. Overall, Proposition 1 aims to reduce homelessness and tent encampments, and provide support to individuals who do not have the resources to address behavioral health challenges. 

Top support for Proposition 1:


- The legislation that sent Proposition 1 to voters received overwhelming support from the state legislature. SB326 received a unanimous floor vote in the Senate, and earned 68 floor votes in the Assembly. AB531 received 35 floor votes in the Senate, and 66 floor votes in the Assembly. 
- YES ON 1 has received over $10.7 million in donations, primarily through Yes on Prop 1—Governor Newsom’s Ballot Measure Committee. The committee has received donations from police, fossil fuel, real estate, and corporate PAC interests, including from California Correctional Peace Officers Association Truth in American Government Fund, AirBnB, Google, and PG&E. 
- Gov. Gavin Newsom has enthusiastically supported Proposition 1, arguing that the establishment of more treatment options and housing units has the potential to have a significant impact on marginalized populations within the state over time, and is a humane approach to this ongoing public health crisis. 

Top opposition to Proposition 1:


- Groups like Disability Rights California and the League of Women Voters California are concerned that this policy could be interpreted to permit involuntary treatment of mental health and addiction patients in locked facilities. They argue that this aspect of the bill is regressive and is the result of hasty passage, a lack of meaningful legislative debate, and limited input from community groups. Republican activist Carl DeMaio, his conservative PAC Reform California, and the anti-tax Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association are also opposing Proposition 1.
- Some housing and homeless advocates have criticized Proposition 1’s narrow projected impact on a statewide homeless population that is estimated to include 180,000 people. With over half of the proposed new housing units earmarked for veterans, the number of homeless civilians who will benefit from this program is statistically insignificant.
- Proposition 1 has raised concerns among opponents—including several counties and county leaders—around its mandate that 30% of county Mental Health Services Act funding be allocated to address local housing shortages. Stripping funding out of this budget line to fund housing programs will disrupt existing and effective county mental health programs, many of which are tailored to serve marginalized local populations, including Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and people of color.