California's 1st Congressional District election, 2026

The boundaries of this district will change as a result of California Proposition 50, which voters approved on November 5, 2025. Click here to read more about the mid-decade redistricting effort in California and other states.

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California's 1st Congressional District
General election
Election details
Filing deadline: March 6, 2026
Primary: June 2, 2026 General: November 3, 2026
How to vote
Poll times: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Voting in California
Race ratings
Cook Political Report: Solid Democratic DDHQ and The Hill: Pending Inside Elections: Solid Democratic Sabato's Crystal Ball: Likely Democratic
Ballotpedia analysis
U.S. Senate battlegrounds U.S. House battlegrounds Federal and state primary competitiveness Ballotpedia's Election Analysis Hub, 2026
See also
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All U.S. House districts, including the 1st Congressional District of California, are holding elections in 2026. The general election is November 3, 2026. To learn more about other elections on the ballot, click here.

Candidates and election results

Note: The following list includes official candidates only. Ballotpedia defines official candidates as people who:

• Register with a federal or state campaign finance agency before the candidate filing deadline
• Appear on candidate lists released by government election agencies

Note: At this time, Ballotpedia is combining all declared candidates for this election into one list under a general election heading. As primary election dates are published, this information will be updated to separate general election candidates from primary candidates as appropriate.

General election

The general election will occur on November 3, 2026.

General election for U.S. House California District 1

The following candidates are running in the general election for U.S. House California District 1 on November 3, 2026.

		Candidate
		Doug LaMalfa (R)
		Audrey Denney (D)
		Mike McGuire (D)
	Submit photo	James Salegui (D)
	Submit photo	Casey Stewart (D)
		Kyle Wilson (D)
		Rose Penelope Yee (D)

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined.
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
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Candidate profiles

This section includes candidate profiles that may be created in one of two ways: either the candidate completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey, or Ballotpedia staff may compile a profile based on campaign websites, advertisements, and public statements after identifying the candidate as noteworthy. For more on how we select candidates to include, click here.

Kyle Wilson

Party: Democratic Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography:  "

I’m Kyle Wilson, a workers’ rights attorney, first-generation college graduate, and independent candidate for Congress in California’s 2nd District. I grew up in a working-class family in Santa Rosa and earned my law degree from Columbia University. I’ve spent my career standing up for people who’ve been mistreated on the job, fighting against corporate power, and teaching legal writing to the next generation of advocates.

I’m running because I believe the political system is broken, captured by wealthy donors, career politicians, and corporate lobbyists. I’m not here to climb the ladder or play party games. I’m here to fight for the working class and restore integrity, accountability, and economic fairness to our government."

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Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

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1. Building an Economy That Works for the Working Class

Too many Americans are working harder than ever and still falling behind. I’m fighting for tax relief for working families, fair wages, stronger union rights, and an end to corporate tax loopholes. We need an economy that rewards hard work, not just wealth and connections. Whether you’re a conservative small business owner or a progressive union worker, we all want a fair shot. I’m running as an independent because building a strong middle class isn’t a partisan issue, it’s a priority all Americans can get behind.

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2. Fixing a Broken Political System

The system is rigged, and both parties helped rig it. It’s time for term limits, a ban on dark money, and real accountability in Congress. I’m not taking corporate PAC money, and I’m not beholden to party bosses. I’m running to serve the people, not a political machine. Whether you're a Republican frustrated by career politicians or a Democrat tired of performative politics, we have common ground: we want a government that works for us. Reform isn't left or right, it's long overdue.

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3. Making Housing and Healthcare Affordable

The cost of living is out of control. We need to take on corporate landlords, expand first-time homebuyer support, and offer a public option for healthcare so families aren’t one medical bill away from disaster. These aren’t partisan ideas, they’re practical solutions to everyday struggles. I’ve talked with voters from across the political spectrum, and the message is clear: people want stability, dignity, and a fair shot at building a life. Let’s come together to make it happen.

Voting information

See also: Voting in California

Ballotpedia will publish the dates and deadlines related to this election as they are made available.

Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey responses

Ballotpedia asks all federal, state, and local candidates to complete a survey and share what motivates them on political and personal levels. The section below shows responses from candidates in this race who completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Survey responses from candidates in this race

Click on a candidate's name to visit their Ballotpedia page.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

Expand all | Collapse all

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Kyle Wilson (D)

1. Building an Economy That Works for the Working ClassToo many Americans are working harder than ever and still falling behind. I’m fighting for tax relief for working families, fair wages, stronger union rights, and an end to corporate tax loopholes. We need an economy that rewards hard work, not just wealth and connections. Whether you’re a conservative small business owner or a progressive union worker, we all want a fair shot. I’m running as an independent because building a strong middle class isn’t a partisan issue, it’s a priority all Americans can get behind.

2. Fixing a Broken Political SystemThe system is rigged, and both parties helped rig it. It’s time for term limits, a ban on dark money, and real accountability in Congress. I’m not taking corporate PAC money, and I’m not beholden to party bosses. I’m running to serve the people, not a political machine. Whether you're a Republican frustrated by career politicians or a Democrat tired of performative politics, we have common ground: we want a government that works for us. Reform isn't left or right, it's long overdue.

3. Making Housing and Healthcare AffordableThe cost of living is out of control. We need to take on corporate landlords, expand first-time homebuyer support, and offer a public option for healthcare so families aren’t one medical bill away from disaster. These aren’t partisan ideas, they’re practical solutions to everyday struggles. I’ve talked with voters from across the political spectrum, and the message is clear: people want stability, dignity, and a fair shot at building a life. Let’s come together to make it happen.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Kyle Wilson (D)

I’m passionate about public policy that puts working people first and restores integrity to our democracy. That means fighting for economic justice , including tax reform, stronger labor protections, and affordable housing. I care deeply about breaking the grip of money in politics through term limits, campaign finance reform, and ending corporate PAC influence. I'm also committed to ensuring univeral healthcare access and ensurign that no one goes bankrupt because of medical bills. Ultimately, I’m driven by a belief that government should work for all of us, not just the wealthy and well-connected, and that real progress requires bringing people together across party lines to focus on shared values and practical solutions.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

Kyle Wilson (D)

I look up to my grandfather, who served as a battalion chief with the Santa Rosa Fire Department. He grew up in a poor farming family in the aftermath of the Great Depression and spent his early years working the land before dedicating his life to public service. He was the kind of leader who always put others before himself. Calm in crisis, steady under pressure, and deeply committed to his community. He never sought the spotlight, but he earned respect through his actions. His life taught me that leadership isn’t about ego or titles, it’s about service, sacrifice, and showing up for others when it matters most. That’s the example I try to follow: to lead with humility, to work hard, and to always remember who I’m here to serve.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

Kyle Wilson (D)

One book that deeply influences my political philosophy is Meditations by Marcus Aurelius. It’s not a political manifesto, it’s a personal journal of a leader striving to act with integrity, humility, and discipline in a chaotic world. Aurelius reminds us that power should be exercised with restraint and purpose, and that true leadership means putting service above ego. In today’s political climate, that kind of inner strength and moral clarity is sorely lacking. I believe elected officials should lead with the same mindset: stay grounded, speak the truth, resist corruption, and fight for justice not for power’s sake, but for the people they represent.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Kyle Wilson (D)

The most important qualities in an elected official are rooted in integrity, justice, unity, liberty, and empowerment.

Integrity means being honest, accountable, and doing the right thing, even when it's not politically convenient.

Justice means fighting for a system that treats all people fairly, especially the working class and those historically left behind.

Unity is about bridging divides and focusing on shared goals instead of partisan labels. Liberty means defending individual rights and ensuring everyone has the freedom to thrive.

And empowerment means giving people the tools, voice, and opportunity to shape their own future.

These values guide every decision I make, and they’re the foundation of the kind of leadership I believe we need.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

Kyle Wilson (D)

I bring a combination of real-world experience, integrity, and a deep commitment to justice. As a workers’ rights attorney, I’ve fought for people who were mistreated by powerful employers — and I’ve seen how the system too often fails ordinary Americans. I’m also a first-generation college graduate from a working-class family, so I understand the struggles people face not as talking points, but as lived reality. I’m independent, principled, and not afraid to speak hard truths , even when it’s uncomfortable. I listen more than I speak, and I believe leadership means serving the public, not protecting a party or chasing political ambition. I’m running not for personal glory, but to fight for the people who are too often ignored or overlooked.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

Kyle Wilson (D)

A member of Congress must do more than vote . They must lead. That means listening to the people they represent, but also having the courage to speak up, challenge the status quo, and fight for what’s right, even when it’s unpopular. The core responsibility of this office is to serve with integrity, uphold justice, and protect the liberty and dignity of every constituent. It also means working across divides to build unity, without compromising on principle. Too many elected officials go along to get along. I believe representatives should stand firm, tell the truth, and take action, not just follow party lines or protect their careers. Real leadership means being willing to fight for the people, not just fit in with the system.

What legacy would you like to leave?

Kyle Wilson (D)

I want to leave a legacy of kindness and integrity, a legacy of someone who led with heart, stood by their values, and never forgot who they were fighting for. In a system that often rewards cynicism and self-interest, I hope to be remembered as someone who chose service over ego, truth over convenience, and people over power. If I can inspire others to believe that politics can still be decent, that public service can still be honest, and that real change is possible when we work together, I will have accomplished my goal.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

Kyle Wilson (D)

The first historical event I remember clearly is September 11, 2001. I was 8 years old, and even at that young age, I could sense that something enormous had happened. I remember the fear in the adults around me, the nonstop news coverage, and the feeling that the world had suddenly become less safe. As I grew older, I began to understand how 9/11 reshaped our country, not just in terms of foreign policy, but in how much power we gave the government, how we treated civil liberties, and how fear was used to justify endless war. That early experience helped shape my belief that we must hold power accountable, protect constitutional rights, and never let fear override justice or integrity.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

Kyle Wilson (D)

My very first job was as a dishwasher at the Bohemian Grove during the summer when I was a teenager. It was hot, messy, and humbling. But it taught me the value of hard work and the reality of how different the lives of the powerful can be from the people who clean up after them. I worked that job for a summer, and the experience has stuck with me ever since. It’s part of what drives my commitment to stand up for working people and challenge concentrated power because I’ve seen both sides of the kitchen door.

What is your favorite book? Why?

Kyle Wilson (D)

My favorite book is East of Eden by John Steinbeck. It’s a deeply Californian story rooted in the soil, spirit, and complexity of this state. Set in the Salinas Valley, it wrestles with big themes: family, morality, and the struggle to choose between good and evil. What’s always stayed with me is the word “Timshel,” meaning “thou mayest.” It’s the idea that we are not bound by our past. We have the power to choose our path. That message has shaped my life and my politics. I even have “Timshel” tattooed over my heart as a reminder that no matter how broken the system may seem, we still have the power, and the responsibility, to choose justice, compassion, and change. That’s what this campaign is about. And to me, that’s what California is about too.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

Kyle Wilson (D)

If I could be any fictional character, I’d choose Jon Snow from Game of Thrones. He’s not flashy, not hungry for power, but he leads with integrity, loyalty, and a deep sense of duty. He speaks up when it matters, even when it puts him at odds with the establishment, and he’s willing to make hard choices for the good of uniting the people. Plus, let’s be honest, the guy rocks a cape, commands a wolf, and still manages to stay humble. I relate to that tension between doing what’s right and doing what’s easy. And like Jon, I’d rather lead with purpose than chase a throne.

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

Kyle Wilson (D)

The last song that got stuck in my head was “Moonbeam” by Benson Boone — I’ve had it looping in my brain for days. I got the chance to see him live at BottleRock, and his energy was just infectious. Plus, I’m low-key inspired by his on-stage flips. I’ve been telling myself I’ll learn how to do one someday… maybe after the campaign, when I’m not at risk of flipping into a podium.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

Kyle Wilson (D)

One of the biggest struggles in my life came during the 2008 financial crisis. My dad was laid off from his construction job, and we lost our home. During my junior year of high school, my family was homeless, living in a single hotel room while I studied for AP exams and tried to hold onto hope for the future. It was a painful and defining time. What made it even harder was watching the government bail out Wall Street while families like mine were left to fend for ourselves. The banks got rescued while we got evicted. That experience shaped how I see the world and why I’m running: to build an economy that works for the working class, not just the wealthy and well-connected. I’ve lived the consequences of a system that protects power instead of people.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for holders of this office to have previous experience in government or politics?

Kyle Wilson (D)

A basic understanding of how government works is definitely helpful, especially knowledge of lawmaking, systems of power, and how to navigate bureaucracy. But I don’t believe career experience in politics should be a requirement. In fact, too much time in government can become a liability. It often leads to complacency, loyalty to party machinery, and disconnect from the realities everyday people face. What we need are leaders who combine a working knowledge of the system with the courage to challenge it. People with real-world experience, strong values, and the independence to put constituents first. That’s why I’m running as an outsider with a deep respect for how government should work, and a strong desire to fix where it’s gone wrong.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Kyle Wilson (D)

One of the greatest challenges facing the United States over the next decade is the fraying of our social fabric. Economic inequality, political polarization, and institutional distrust are pulling us apart. As wealth continues to concentrate in the hands of a few, too many Americans are being left behind struggling to afford housing, healthcare, and basic stability. But the deeper issue is a sense of disconnection: from each other, from our leaders, and from the belief that government can still work for us. If we don’t address wealth disparity and rebuild social trust and national unity, we risk not just economic decline but democratic decay. Meeting this challenge will require bold policy and the courage to bring people together across divides to fight for a common future.

Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

Kyle Wilson (D)

I wouldn’t claim to model myself directly after any one politician, but I draw inspiration from leaders who had the courage to stand on principle even when it was unpopular. Abraham Lincoln believed in holding the nation together through dialogue, conviction, and a deep sense of justice. That spirit of leading with integrity in times of division is something I deeply admire. I also respect figures like Barbara Lee, who had the moral clarity to vote against war when few others would, and Justin Amash, who broke with his party to stand for the Constitution. I’m running as an independent because I believe leadership means serving the people, not the party and fighting for what’s right, even when it’s hard.

What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution?

Kyle Wilson (D)

The U.S. House of Representatives is unique because it is the closest and most responsive branch of the federal government to the people. With elections every two years and smaller districts compared to the Senate, House members are directly accountable to their constituents and can reflect the evolving needs and voices of local communities. The House also holds the power of the purse, giving it a central role in shaping the nation's budget and funding priorities. Its larger size allows for a wider range of perspectives and lived experiences, which should make it a diverse, dynamic forum for debate and reform. At its best, the House is a vehicle for grassroots democracy and a check against concentrated power. Our challenge is to make it live up to that promise.

Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives?

Kyle Wilson (D)

The two-year term for House representatives has both strengths and drawbacks. On the positive side, it keeps members directly accountable to the people. Voters can respond quickly if their representative isn’t doing the job, and it forces elected officials to stay connected to their constituents.

But there are serious downsides too. The constant campaign cycle can be a distraction from governing, and it often pushes representatives to prioritize short-term optics or fundraising over long-term solutions. It also makes them more dependent on party infrastructure and big donors just to stay competitive.

Overall, I think the principle of accountability is good, but the system we’ve built around two-year terms isn’t serving the public as well as it could. That’s why I support broader reforms, like term limits and campaign finance reform, to make our democracy more responsive and less driven by money and partisanship.

What are your thoughts on term limits?

Kyle Wilson (D)

Term limits are one of the central issues of my campaign. I believe no one should spend decades in Congress accumulating power while the needs of everyday people go ignored. Career politicians too often prioritize re-election, party loyalty, and donor interests over the public good. Term limits would help break that cycle, reduce corruption, and make space for new leaders with fresh ideas. This isn’t about one party or ideology. Voters across the spectrum are frustrated with a system that rewards seniority over service. If we want a government that’s responsive, accountable, and focused on results, we need to start by setting limits on those who hold power.

Tell us your favorite joke.

Kyle Wilson (D)

I started to write the punchline to a dad joke… …but I couldn’t get any father. 😅

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

Kyle Wilson (D)

Yes, I believe compromise is both necessary and desirable in policymaking, as long as it’s rooted in principle and aimed at delivering real results for the people. Progress doesn’t always come in one big leap. It often comes through difficult conversations, coalition-building, and finding common ground across differences. That said, compromise should never mean surrendering core values or watering down solutions until they’re meaningless. We need leaders who know when to stand firm, especially when it comes to justice, integrity, and protecting the vulnerable, but also when to reach across the aisle to get things done. I’m running as an independent because I believe most people, regardless of party, want practical solutions, not endless gridlock or political theater.

The Constitution says that all bills for raising revenue must originate in the House. What role would this power play in your priorities if elected?

Kyle Wilson (D)

The Constitution gives the House the unique power to originate all bills related to raising revenue — and I believe that power should be used to create a fairer, more just economy. If elected, I would push for a tax system that lifts up working families, not just the wealthy and well-connected. That includes restoring corporate tax rates to reasonable levels, closing loopholes for billionaires, and expanding tax credits for people struggling to get by. Revenue policy isn’t just about numbers. Our tax and spending policies ulimately reflect our values. I would use this power to champion policies that put the needs of everyday people first and challenge the influence of lobbyists and big donors who’ve rigged the system in their favor.

How should the U.S. House use its investigative powers?

Kyle Wilson (D)

The House’s investigative powers are essential to a functioning democracy. They should be used not just to score political points, but to root out systemic corruption and hold powerful institutions, both public and private, accountable. That means investigating corporate abuse, government waste, and the undue influence of money in politics, regardless of which party is in power. But investigation shouldn’t end at exposure. The House should also use its oversight role to understand complex problems and explore real, evidence-based solutions from the cost of healthcare and housing to economic inequality and environmental risk. When used responsibly, these powers can shine a light on injustice and pave the way for reform that actually improves people’s lives.

What committees interest you?

Kyle Wilson (D)

I’m especially interested in serving on committees that align with my core priorities: economic justice, government reform, and housing affordability. That includes the House Committee on Financial Services, where I can help tackle wealth inequality, corporate accountability, and consumer protection. I’d also be eager to serve on the Oversight and Accountability Committee to push for greater transparency and root out corruption in both parties. Given the housing crisis across California and the nation, the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, particularly its subcommittees on housing and public transit, also holds real potential for impact. My goal is to use any committee seat not just to participate, but to challenge the status quo and advocate for working people.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

Kyle Wilson (D)

I believe financial transparency and government accountability are non-negotiable in a healthy democracy. The public has a right to know how their tax dollars are being spent, who is influencing their representatives, and what interests are shaping policy behind the scenes. That’s why I support banning dark money in politics, requiring full disclosure of campaign contributions, and strengthening oversight of federal spending and contracting. We need elected officials who aren’t afraid to call out corruption even in their own party, and who will fight for systems that work for the people, not the powerful. I’m not taking corporate PAC money, and I’ll always put transparency over political convenience. If we want to rebuild trust in government, it starts with honesty, accountability, and a commitment to serve, not to self-enrich.

You can ask candidates in this race to fill out the survey by clicking their names below:

• Audrey Denney
• Doug LaMalfa
• Rose Penelope Yee

Campaign finance

Name	Party	Receipts*	Disbursements**	Cash on hand	Date
Doug LaMalfa	Republican Party	$365,648	$207,767	$842,323	As of September 30, 2025
Audrey Denney	Democratic Party	$0	$0	$0	Data not available***
Mike McGuire	Democratic Party	$0	$0	$0	Data not available***
James Salegui	Democratic Party	$8,694	$3,517	$5,177	As of September 30, 2025
Casey Stewart	Democratic Party	$0	$0	$0	Data not available***
Kyle Wilson	Democratic Party	$4,277	$3,326	$944	As of September 30, 2025
Rose Penelope Yee	Democratic Party	$0	$0	$0	Data not available***
Source: Federal Elections Commission, "Campaign finance data," 2026. This product uses the openFEC API but is not endorsed or certified by the Federal Election Commission (FEC). * According to the FEC, "Receipts are anything of value (money, goods, services or property) received by a political committee." ** According to the FEC, a disbursement "is a purchase, payment, distribution, loan, advance, deposit or gift of money or anything of value to influence a federal election," plus other kinds of payments not made to influence a federal election. *** Candidate either did not report any receipts or disbursements to the FEC, or Ballotpedia did not find an FEC candidate ID.

General election race ratings

See also: Race rating definitions and methods

Ballotpedia provides race ratings from four outlets: The Cook Political Report, Inside Elections, Sabato's Crystal Ball, and DDHQ/The Hill. Each race rating indicates if one party is perceived to have an advantage in the race and, if so, the degree of advantage:

• Safe and Solid ratings indicate that one party has a clear edge and the race is not competitive.
• Likely ratings indicate that one party has a clear edge, but an upset is possible.
• Lean ratings indicate that one party has a small edge, but the race is competitive.
• Toss-up ratings indicate that neither party has an advantage.

Race ratings are informed by a number of factors, including polling, candidate quality, and election result history in the race's district or state.

Race ratings: California's 1st Congressional District election, 2026
Race tracker	Race ratings
	12/23/2025	12/16/2025	12/9/2025	12/2/2025
The Cook Political Report with Amy Walter	Solid Democratic	Solid Democratic	Solid Democratic	Solid Democratic
Decision Desk HQ and The Hill	Pending	Pending	Pending	Pending
Inside Elections with Nathan L. Gonzales	Solid Democratic	Solid Democratic	Solid Democratic	Solid Democratic
Larry J. Sabato's Crystal Ball	Likely Democratic	Likely Democratic	Likely Democratic	Likely Democratic
Note: Ballotpedia reviews external race ratings every week throughout the election season and posts weekly updates even if the media outlets have not revised their ratings during that week.

Ballot access

The table below details filing requirements for U.S. House candidates in California in the 2026 election cycle. For additional information on candidate ballot access requirements in California, click here.

Filing requirements for U.S. House candidates, 2026
State	Office	Party	Signatures required	Filing fee	Filing deadline	Source
California	U.S. House	All candidates	40-60	$1,740	3/6/2026	Source

Republican-held U.S. House district that Harris won

See also: U.S. House districts represented by a Republican in 2026 and won by Kamala Harris in 2024

This is one of nine U.S. House districts Republicans are defending that Kamala Harris (D) won in 2024. The map below highlights those districts. Hover over or click a district to see information such as the incumbent and the presidential vote counts.

District history

The section below details election results for this office in elections dating back to 2020.

• 2024
• 2022
• 2020

General election

General election for U.S. House California District 1

Incumbent Doug LaMalfa (R) defeated Rose Penelope Yee (D) in the general election for U.S. House California District 1 on November 5, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Doug LaMalfa (R)	65.3	208,592
		Rose Penelope Yee (D)	34.7	110,636

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 319,228
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Nonpartisan primary

Nonpartisan primary election for U.S. House California District 1

Incumbent Doug LaMalfa (R) and Rose Penelope Yee (D) defeated Mike Doran (D) in the primary for U.S. House California District 1 on March 5, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Doug LaMalfa (R)	66.7	122,858
✔		Rose Penelope Yee (D)	22.6	41,669
		Mike Doran (D)	10.7	19,734

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 184,261
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

• Dominick Dorothy (D)
• Albert Vitela (D)
• Joanna Warrens (D)
• Aaron Webster (D)
• John Kelly (R)
• Ashkan Nazarian (R)
• Jeffrey Lavin (L)
• Janai Meeks (No party preference)
• Trenten Phillips (No party preference)

General election

General election for U.S. House California District 1

Incumbent Doug LaMalfa (R) defeated Max Steiner (D) in the general election for U.S. House California District 1 on November 8, 2022.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Doug LaMalfa (R)	62.1	152,839
		Max Steiner (D)	37.9	93,386

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 246,225
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Nonpartisan primary

Nonpartisan primary election for U.S. House California District 1

Incumbent Doug LaMalfa (R) and Max Steiner (D) defeated Tim Geist (R) and Rose Penelope Yee (Independent) in the primary for U.S. House California District 1 on June 7, 2022.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Doug LaMalfa (R)	57.1	96,858
✔		Max Steiner (D)	32.8	55,549
		Tim Geist (R)	6.7	11,408
		Rose Penelope Yee (Independent)	3.4	5,777

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 169,592
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

• Robert Lydon (D)
• David Zink (D)
• Jonathon Ramos (Federalist Party)
• Marcus Godfrey (L)

General election

General election for U.S. House California District 1

Incumbent Doug LaMalfa (R) defeated Audrey Denney (D) in the general election for U.S. House California District 1 on November 3, 2020.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Doug LaMalfa (R)	57.0	204,190
		Audrey Denney (D)	43.0	154,073

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 358,263
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Nonpartisan primary

Nonpartisan primary election for U.S. House California District 1

The following candidates ran in the primary for U.S. House California District 1 on March 3, 2020.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Doug LaMalfa (R)	54.6	128,613
✔		Audrey Denney (D)	39.4	92,655
	Submit photo	Rob Lydon (D)	3.7	8,745
		Joseph LeTourneau IV (Independent)	1.2	2,769
		Gregory Cheadle (Independent)	1.1	2,596
	Submit photo	Kenneth Swanson (R) (Write-in)	0.0	13

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 235,391
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

• Jason Cienkus (D)
• Selena Rose Martinez (D)
• Paul Saulsbury (R)

District analysis

Click the tabs below to view information about voter composition, past elections, and demographics in both the district and the state.

• District map - A map of the district before and after redistricting ahead of the 2026 election.
• Competitiveness - Information about the competitiveness of 2026 U.S. House elections in the state.
• Presidential elections - Information about presidential elections in the district and the state.
• State party control - The partisan makeup of the state's congressional delegation and state government.

• District map
• Competitiveness
• Presidential elections
• State party control

Below is the district map used in the 2024 election next to the map in place for the 2026 election. Click on a map below to enlarge it.

2024

2026

See also: Primary election competitiveness in state and federal government, 2026

Information about competitiveness will be added here as it becomes available.

Partisan Voter Index

See also: The Cook Political Report's Partisan Voter Index

Heading into the 2026 elections, based on results from the 2024 and 2020 presidential elections, the Cook Partisan Voter Index for this district is R+12. This meant that in those two presidential elections, this district's results were 12 percentage points more Republican than the national average. This made California's 1st the 97th most Republican district nationally.

2020 presidential election results

The table below shows what the vote in the 2024 presidential election was in this district. The presidential election data was compiled by The Downballot.

2024 presidential results in California's 1st Congressional District

Kamala Harris	Donald Trump
54.5%	42.3%

Presidential voting history

See also: Presidential election in California, 2024

California presidential election results (1900-2024)

• 16 Democratic wins
• 15 Republican wins
• 1 other win

Year	1900	1904	1908	1912	1916	1920	1924	1928	1932	1936	1940	1944	1948	1952	1956	1960	1964	1968	1972	1976	1980	1984	1988	1992	1996	2000	2004	2008	2012	2016	2020	2024
Winning Party	R	R	R	P	D	R	R	R	D	D	D	D	D	R	R	R	D	R	R	R	R	R	R	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D

See also: Party control of California state government

Congressional delegation

The table below displays the partisan composition of California's congressional delegation as of October 2025.

Congressional Partisan Breakdown from California
Party	U.S. Senate	U.S. House	Total
Democratic	2	43	45
Republican	0	9	9
Independent	0	0	0
Vacancies	0	0	0
Total	2	52	54

State executive

The table below displays the officeholders in California's top four state executive offices as of October 2025.

State executive officials in California, October 2025

Office	Officeholder
Governor	Gavin Newsom
Lieutenant Governor	Eleni Kounalakis
Secretary of State	Shirley Weber
Attorney General	Rob Bonta

State legislature

California State Senate

Party		As of October 2025
	Democratic Party	30
	Republican Party	10
	Other	0
	Vacancies	0
Total		40

California State Assembly

Party		As of October 2025
	Democratic Party	60
	Republican Party	20
	Other	0
	Vacancies	0
Total		80

Trifecta control

California Party Control: 1992-2025
Twenty years with Democratic trifectas  •  No Republican trifectas
Scroll left and right on the table below to view more years.

Year	92	93	94	95	96	97	98	99	00	01	02	03	04	05	06	07	08	09	10	11	12	13	14	15	16	17	18	19	20	21	22	23	24	25
Governor	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	D	D	D	D	D	R	R	R	R	R	R	R	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D
Senate	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D
Assembly	D	D	D	S	R	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D	D

See also

California	2026 primaries	2026 U.S. Congress elections
California congressional delegation Voting in California California elections: 2026 • 2025 • 2024 • 2023 • 2022 • 2021 • 2020 • 2019 • 2018	Democratic primary battlegrounds Republican primary battlegrounds U.S. Senate Democratic primaries U.S. Senate Republican primaries U.S. House Democratic primaries U.S. House Republican primaries	U.S. Congress elections U.S. Senate elections U.S. House elections Special elections Ballot access

External links

• Search Google News for this topic

Footnotes

[show]

California's current delegation to the United States Congress

Senators

Alex Padilla (D)

Adam Schiff (D)

Representatives

District 1

Doug LaMalfa (R)

District 2

Jared Huffman (D)

District 3

Kevin Kiley (R)

District 4

Mike Thompson (D)

District 5

Tom McClintock (R)

District 6

Ami Bera (D)

District 7

Doris Matsui (D)

District 8

John Garamendi (D)

District 9

Josh Harder (D)

District 10

Mark DeSaulnier (D)

District 11

Nancy Pelosi (D)

District 12

Lateefah Simon (D)

District 13

Adam Gray (D)

District 14

Eric Swalwell (D)

District 15

Kevin Mullin (D)

District 16

Sam Liccardo (D)

District 17

Ro Khanna (D)

District 18

Zoe Lofgren (D)

District 19

Jimmy Panetta (D)

District 20

Vince Fong (R)

District 21

Jim Costa (D)

District 22

David Valadao (R)

District 23

Jay Obernolte (R)

District 24

Salud Carbajal (D)

District 25

Raul Ruiz (D)

District 26

Julia Brownley (D)

District 27

George Whitesides (D)

District 28

Judy Chu (D)

District 29

Luz Rivas (D)

District 30

Laura Friedman (D)

District 31

Gil Cisneros (D)

District 32

Brad Sherman (D)

District 33

Pete Aguilar (D)

District 34

Jimmy Gomez (D)

District 35

Norma Torres (D)

District 36

Ted Lieu (D)

District 37

Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D)

District 38

Linda Sánchez (D)

District 39

Mark Takano (D)

District 40

Young Kim (R)

District 41

Ken Calvert (R)

District 42

Robert Garcia (D)

District 43

Maxine Waters (D)

District 44

Nanette Barragán (D)

District 45

Derek Tran (D)

District 46

Lou Correa (D)

District 47

Dave Min (D)

District 48

Darrell Issa (R)

District 49

Mike Levin (D)

District 50

Scott Peters (D)

District 51

Sara Jacobs (D)

District 52

Juan Vargas (D)

Democratic Party (45)

Republican Party (9)

2025-2026 Elections to the United States Congress

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