California's 23rd Congressional District election, 2026

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

← 2024
California's 23rd 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 Republican DDHQ and The Hill: Pending Inside Elections: Solid Republican Sabato's Crystal Ball: Safe Republican
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 23rd 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 23

Incumbent Jay Obernolte, Edwin Alonzo, Paul Chakalian, Alexis Claiborne, and Tessa Lynn Hodge are running in the general election for U.S. House California District 23 on November 3, 2026.

		Candidate
		Jay Obernolte (R)
		Edwin Alonzo (D)
		Paul Chakalian (D)
		Alexis Claiborne (D)
		Tessa Lynn Hodge (D)

---

	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.

Edwin Alonzo

Party: Democratic Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography:  "Veteran, Steward, Husband, Father Over twenty years ago I began my service to our nation and swore an oath to defend the United States Constitution. I have served my community as a coach and a volunteer with schools and youth groups. I have served my state by working to protect the water and the air and to respond to hazardous materials spills that endanger the public. I served my fellow workers by representing them as a steward for the Teamster Local 1932 Union. Today I continue my service to my nation by taking the fight to congress. I stand for the 23rd District."

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Key Messages

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

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The US Constitution is the basis for our individual freedoms and liberties. The Constitution protects all Americans from tyranny and oppression. Every amendment in the Bill of Rights is specifically designed to protect the individual freedoms all Americans and were designed to support each other amendment. It is impossible to have the freedoms and rights under the first amendment without the guarantees and protection provided to all Americans by the second amendment. Both of these amendments are dependent on the fourth amendment which provides due process of law, meaning that everybody gets a fair hearing before a judge, and with the lawyer to represent them before anything happens to them.

---

Social Security Benefits need to increase for retirees, and those who are unable to provide for themselves. More and more Americans are unable to retire because they simply do not have enough funds or resources to maintain a basic standard of living. We have seen through decades that we can not depend on corporations to do the right thing, they always choose Greed. We need to ensure that the people can retire with grace and dignity. That our elders can be part of the community and help contribute to the upbringing of the youth without the stress of fear and worry. Their wisdom is needed in our society.

---

Workers, Unions and Veterans are the pillars of our American Society. Nothing moves, nothing is made, nothing is bought or sold, and no essential services can be provided without workers. Workers feed the family and the nation, workers educate the next generation, and raise them. Our future as a country is completely dependent on the quality of life of the American worker, and not the profits of corporations or greedy individuals. Out of the working families come veterans. The young folks sign up and put it all on the line for their nation and they do it with the confidence that their nation is going to take care of them. President Lincoln stated that we shall take care of those who wore the scars of battle.

Paul Chakalian

Party: Democratic Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography:  "Paul Chakalian is a small business owner and dad who understands the real challenges facing working families in Yucca Valley and across our district. As the founder of Joshua Tree Distilling Co., he knows the struggle of running a small business in California — from navigating skyrocketing costs of healthcare, housing, and taxes to managing burdensome regulations that make it difficult to get ahead. Paul has experienced these challenges firsthand, working from home to raise his two young sons due to the high cost of housing and childcare. Paul comes from a family of small business owners with roots in this region for nearly two decades. His journey began early, helping at his parents' bookstore as a teenager and learning the value of hard work and community. Today, he's built a successful craft distillery that provides jobs and supports the local economy, donating between 2–5% of its revenue every year to over two dozen local community organizations. Paul is committed to championing the needs of small businesses and working families. With a deep understanding of local economic challenges, and a PhD in environmental science, he brings a people-first perspective focused on balanced and practical solutions to improve lives and livelihoods."

---

Key Messages

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

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If elected, Paul will work across the aisle to provide concrete improvements in our communities by reducing costs for working families, supporting businesses and schools, and ensuring access to quality healthcare and our shared natural spaces.

---

Paul Believes in the Right To: 1. Pursue happiness, including security and financial independence, without government getting in the way. 2. Express yourself and speak your mind even when your opinions are unpopular or critical. 3. Practice your religion or no religion in the way that you and your family choose. 4. Access affordable healthcare, including reproductive health care. 5. Have clean and safe neighborhoods and natural spaces. 6. Love and marry whom you please regardless of race, gender, or religion. 7. Bear arms through responsible gun ownership.

---

Paul Promises To: 1. Fight for lower taxes and increased government efficiency. 2. Vote with my constituents, not with a party. 3. Keep big money interests and foreign influence out of government. 4. Uphold our basic rights.

Alexis Claiborne

Party: Democratic Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography:  "My name is Alexis Claiborne and I decided to run for US House of Representatives in order to restore representations of the people. Our government should be of the people, by the people and for the people. I believe that we need leaders who are involved in the community, who support their constituents and who lead with compassion. That is me. I have spent my entire career working in the non-profit sector working to improve the communities in CA district 23. After the 2024 election cycle, I felt that I needed to do more. I have now started a coalition of other non-politicians that are running for office to uplift the voices of the voters and reduce the corruption in our government. I believe that as a society it is our duty to leave this country better for the next generation and that is exactly what I plan to do when I get to DC. We the people, for the people."

---

Key Messages

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

---

People over profit: I am advocating for a government that serves all citizens, not just the wealthy and well-connected. I will accomplish this by promoting policies like a living wage, affordable healthcare, and a fair tax system. I will also be advocating for the overturning of Citizens United in order to ensure elections cannot be bought by the highest bidder. We need to be representing the people.

---

Universal Healthcare Access: I support a universal, single-payer healthcare system to ensure every American has access to comprehensive, affordable, and equitable healthcare. This includes mental health services, reproductive care, and prescription medication. Everyone should have access to healthcare regardless of income, employment status, or zip code. I am advocating for a system that puts patients before politics and eliminated the influence of corporate healthcare lobbyists.

---

Addressing the Climate Crisis: I recognize the climate crisis as both an environmental and economic emergency. I want to emphasize strong environmental protections and a just transition to renewable energy to combat climate change, hold polluting industries accountable, and invest in green infrastructure. This vision doesn't just aim to reduce carbon emissions - it is about building a resilient, green economy where clean air, water and energy are basic rights.

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?

Edwin Alonzo (D)

The US Constitution is the basis for our individual freedoms and liberties. The Constitution protects all Americans from tyranny and oppression. Every amendment in the Bill of Rights is specifically designed to protect the individual freedoms all Americans and were designed to support each other amendment. It is impossible to have the freedoms and rights under the first amendment without the guarantees and protection provided to all Americans by the second amendment. Both of these amendments are dependent on the fourth amendment which provides due process of law, meaning that everybody gets a fair hearing before a judge, and with the lawyer to represent them before anything happens to them.

Social Security Benefits need to increase for retirees, and those who are unable to provide for themselves. More and more Americans are unable to retire because they simply do not have enough funds or resources to maintain a basic standard of living. We have seen through decades that we can not depend on corporations to do the right thing, they always choose Greed. We need to ensure that the people can retire with grace and dignity. That our elders can be part of the community and help contribute to the upbringing of the youth without the stress of fear and worry. Their wisdom is needed in our society.

Workers, Unions and Veterans are the pillars of our American Society. Nothing moves, nothing is made, nothing is bought or sold, and no essential services can be provided without workers. Workers feed the family and the nation, workers educate the next generation, and raise them. Our future as a country is completely dependent on the quality of life of the American worker, and not the profits of corporations or greedy individuals. Out of the working families come veterans. The young folks sign up and put it all on the line for their nation and they do it with the confidence that their nation is going to take care of them. President Lincoln stated that we shall take care of those who wore the scars of battle.

Paul Chakalian (D)

If elected, Paul will work across the aisle to provide concrete improvements in our communities by reducing costs for working families, supporting businesses and schools, and ensuring access to quality healthcare and our shared natural spaces.

Paul Believes in the Right To:

1. Pursue happiness, including security and financial independence, without government getting in the way.

2. Express yourself and speak your mind even when your opinions are unpopular or critical.

3. Practice your religion or no religion in the way that you and your family choose.

4. Access affordable healthcare, including reproductive health care.

5. Have clean and safe neighborhoods and natural spaces.

6. Love and marry whom you please regardless of race, gender, or religion.

7. Bear arms through responsible gun ownership.

Paul Promises To:

1. Fight for lower taxes and increased government efficiency.

2. Vote with my constituents, not with a party.

3. Keep big money interests and foreign influence out of government.

4. Uphold our basic rights.

Alexis Claiborne (D)

People over profit: I am advocating for a government that serves all citizens, not just the wealthy and well-connected. I will accomplish this by promoting policies like a living wage, affordable healthcare, and a fair tax system. I will also be advocating for the overturning of Citizens United in order to ensure elections cannot be bought by the highest bidder. We need to be representing the people.

Universal Healthcare Access: I support a universal, single-payer healthcare system to ensure every American has access to comprehensive, affordable, and equitable healthcare. This includes mental health services, reproductive care, and prescription medication. Everyone should have access to healthcare regardless of income, employment status, or zip code. I am advocating for a system that puts patients before politics and eliminated the influence of corporate healthcare lobbyists.

Addressing the Climate Crisis: I recognize the climate crisis as both an environmental and economic emergency. I want to emphasize strong environmental protections and a just transition to renewable energy to combat climate change, hold polluting industries accountable, and invest in green infrastructure. This vision doesn't just aim to reduce carbon emissions - it is about building a resilient, green economy where clean air, water and energy are basic rights.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Edwin Alonzo (D)

The American people are suffering because of greedy economic policies. The economy should be shepherded by policy to make sure it works for all Americans. Economic inequality is causing the great divide between Americans. The influence of the rich over the government is destroying our country.

Paul Chakalian (D)

1. Increasing financial and economic freedom and security for American families.

2. Enhancing Social Security and Veteran services.

3. Providing Accessible Healthcare for all Americans.

4. Providing universal childcare to support families and address our falling birth rate.

Alexis Claiborne (D)

I am deeply passionate about public policy that centers community empowerment, vulnerable populations, and compassionate leadership. I have spent my entire career in the nonprofit sector working to uplift our communities and empower our neighbors in need. I am now running for Congress to bring that same people-first, justice-driven leadership to Washington. Real change starts by listening to the people.

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

Edwin Alonzo (D)

I look up to the coaches I had as a child. They were the example’s I had to build the kind of man and father I wanted to be for my family.

Alexis Claiborne (D)

My mom. She is a nurse and has been instrumental in my path developing. She has shown me what it is like to lead with empathy and to care for vulnerable communities no matter what. She also instilled the drive for knowledge and education in me and is the biggest reason that I am currently on my way to Dr. Claiborne.

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

Edwin Alonzo (D)

Kingdom of Heaven

Alexis Claiborne (D)

Poverty, by America by Matthew Desmond

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

Edwin Alonzo (D)

Integrity, Courage, and Commitment

Alexis Claiborne (D)

Empathy - leadership should come from a place of compassion and deep understanding of people's lived experiences. Accountability - elected officials must be transparent, responsible, and answer to the people they represent. Community driven - policy should reflect the needs and voices of the community. Integrity - doing the right thing, even when it is not politically convenient, is non-negotiable. Courage - we need leaders that are unafraid to speak truth to power and push for meaningful change.

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

Edwin Alonzo (D)

I determined, hard-working, intelligent, and I have proven that I can remain calm and collected in an emergency.

Alexis Claiborne (D)

Empathy and accountability. Both of these qualities have allowed me to reach across party lines in my work and personal life.

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

Edwin Alonzo (D)

Serve the people

Paul Chakalian (D)

To faithfully represent the interests of their constituents and our nation above all else.

Alexis Claiborne (D)

Serve the people, not special interests - elected officials should represent all constituents, not just the wealthy, corporate donors, or party elites. Listen and be accessible - it is a representatives job to actively listen to the people, remain available and transparent, and regularly engage with the community (not just show up during election season). Pass policies that improve lives - I believe elected officials must focus on legislation that makes a real difference. Fight for justice and equity - public servants should challenge systems of inequality, advocate for marginalized voices, and work to build a more fair, inclusive democracy. Lead with integrity and courage - I stand for doing what is right even when it is hard, and making decisions that reflect values rather, not political convenience.

What legacy would you like to leave?

Edwin Alonzo (D)

I want my kids to remember me as a good dad.

Alexis Claiborne (D)

I want to leave a legacy of services the proves being in politics does not have to be about power and money. It can be about empathy and representing the voices of the people. I want to be remembered as someone who showed up with heart, led with courage and REFUSED to sell out. If I can help shift the culture of Congress toward real transparency, put working-class voices at the center of policy, and inspire others to run who never thought they could - THAT is the kind of legacy that lasts.

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

Edwin Alonzo (D)

I remember the Los Angeles riots and why they happened. I was 7.

Paul Chakalian (D)

Al Gore lost to George Bush despite winning the popular vote. I was 8 years old and that was the beginning of a lifetime of skepticism about our leaders willingness to deliver the promise of a nation that guarantees the free fair pursuit of happiness through democracy.

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

Edwin Alonzo (D)

My first job was unloading trucks and I did that for two years until I was old enough to get a student work permit.

Paul Chakalian (D)

I started working at my parents bookstore at 13 and continued working there seasonally through college.

What is your favorite book? Why?

Edwin Alonzo (D)

Starship Troopers by Robert Hienlien

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

Edwin Alonzo (D)

Obi-Wan Kenobi

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

Edwin Alonzo (D)

Wacced Out Murals by Kendrick Lamar.

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

Edwin Alonzo (D)

I struggled with the experiences I had in my early life growing up and some experiences in the Marine Corps. With a tremendous amount of help from lots of people and God, I was able to overcome my difficulties and grow to be the husband, father, and man, I can be proud to be.

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

Edwin Alonzo (D)

The U.S. House of Representatives if the ultimate expression of democratic energy becomes each member is directly elected by the people of the district. Drawn directly from each district they represent their constituents culture because they come from among the people. The two year term limit forces the representatives to be held accountable to their constituents immediately.

Alexis Claiborne (D)

The U.S. House of Representatives is the most direct link between the people and the federal government. With two-year terms and smaller districts, House members are meant to be highly responsive and accountable to their constituents and communities. The House holds the power of the purse and shapes how public money is raised and spent and has the ability to move legislation quickly in times of urgency. With 435 members, it also offers space for diverse voices and emerging leaders to represent the real, everyday experiences of Americans.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics?

Edwin Alonzo (D)

It is extremely beneficial to have experience in government workings and government policy making.

Alexis Claiborne (D)

I believe that while experience can be helpful, it shouldn't be a prerequisite for serving the people. What we need more that political resumes are leaders with lived experience - people who have worked hard, struggled, served their communities, and understand what everyday Americans are going through. Career politicians too often lose touch with the people they represent. I believe Congress needs more working-class voices who bring compassion, courage and lived perspective to the table.

What do you perceive to be the United States’ greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?

Edwin Alonzo (D)

The greatest challenge to the United States is the influence of money in political decisions.

Paul Chakalian (D)

1. Ensuring that all Americans share in the wealth created by our exceptional system of pluralistic democracy, public education, and capitalist innovation.

2. Protecting our position as the world's reserve currency and global leader in science, culture, and International affairs.

3. Enhancing our democracy to better represet the voices of everyday Americans.

Alexis Claiborne (D)

Over the next decade, the U.S. faces urgent challenges that demand bold, people-first leadership. Economic inequality is widening as corporate greed leaves working families behind. Millions still lack access to affordable healthcare, while the climate crisis threatens communities and ecosystems. Political corruption and dark money have eroded public trust, and fundamental rights, from reproductive freedom to coting access, are under attack. We need leaders who will fight for justice, equity, and a future that works for everyone, not just the powerful few.

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

Edwin Alonzo (D)

Yes, two years holds the representative accountable.

Alexis Claiborne (D)

Yes. The 2 year term keeps members of the House of Representatives accountable to their constituents. With fast election cycles, the expectation is that they spend time in the communities they represent and introduce legislation that helps grow and support them.

What are your thoughts on term limits?

Edwin Alonzo (D)

Term limits are needed and an upper age limit.

Paul Chakalian (D)

Term limits are an essential part a healthy representative democracy and we need to revisit our current term limits (or lack thereof) for all elected positions.

Alexis Claiborne (D)

No one should be sitting in DC without making meaningful change. I support term limits for every elected position AND for the Supreme Court.

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

Edwin Alonzo (D)

Thaddeus Stevens, he played a leading role, focusing his attention on defeating the Confederacy, financing the war with new taxes and borrowing, crushing the power of slave owners, ending slavery, and securing equal rights for the freedmen.

Alexis Claiborne (D)

AOC. She ran a grassroots campaign and defied all odds to get into office. She is bold, brave and accessible to her constituents and the communities she represents.

Both sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

Edwin Alonzo (D)

Every story is “we are struggling “, “we need help”, “why isn’t anyone doing anything?” Each story hardens my resolve with fighting energy.

Tell us your favorite joke.

Edwin Alonzo (D)

A US Army general is talking two a Marine Corps general. They are discussing which service has the bravest Americans. The Army general suddenly decides to make a call over the radio, and within a few minutes a dot appears in the sky. The dot grows bigger and bigger until it’s the size of a man. at the last second, the soldier pulls the cord on the parachute and lands directly in front of the generals, salutes, and says “ reporting for duty, sir!”. The army General turns to the Marine General and says “that is bravery.” The Marine Corps general quickly turns and shouts at the nearest guard tower “Marine! Jump out of that tower! Now!. The Marine immediately responds with “F U Sir! I have not been properly relieved, Sir! The Marine general say “That’s bravery.”

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

Edwin Alonzo (D)

Absolutely

Alexis Claiborne (D)

I believe that if we are all advocating for the needs of the people, little compromise is needed. However, I also recognize that getting a majority to agree on legislation has historically been extremely difficult. Elected officials must compromise without sacrificing the needs of the people they are representing.

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?

Edwin Alonzo (D)

Ensuring raising revenue stays with the house and returning tariffs back to the control of the house.

Alexis Claiborne (D)

As a representative, I will use the power of the purse to invest in what actually matters to working families: living wages, universal healthcare, veteran support, mental health resources, and climate solutions. I will fight to redirect funding away from corporate subsidies and bloated bureaucracy and toward programs that uplift communities, protect our environment and restore dignity to everyday Americans. Budget decisions are moral decisions, and I will make sure our money reflects our values.

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

Edwin Alonzo (D)

Absolutely, to look for fraud, ethics violations, corruption, and persecute treason.

Alexis Claiborne (D)

The U.S. House should use its investigative powers to hold the powerful accountable, not to score partisan points. This means investigating corporate greed, government corruption, wasteful spending, and violations of public trust. It is about protecting the rights and resources of everyday Americans, making sure no one is above the law. Investigations should be transparent, fact-driven, and focused on real outcomes that restore trust in our democracy.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Paul Chakalian (D)

Randall Putz, Big Bear Lake Council Member.

Miguel Soto Jr., Adelanto Elementary School District Board Clerk. Center for Forethought Equality, PAC.

US Term Limits, PAC.

What committees interest you?

Edwin Alonzo (D)

Veteran’s Affairs, Commerce Science and Transportation, Education and Workforce, Armed Services, Environment and Public Works, Energy and Natural Resource, Transportation and Infrastructure.

Alexis Claiborne (D)

Committee on Education and the Workforce, Committee on Veteran's Affairs, Committee on Energy and Commerce, Committee on Oversight and Accountability, Committee on Natural Resources

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

Edwin Alonzo (D)

The government needs to be transparent and held accountable to the American public.

Paul Chakalian (D)

A healthy democracy requires absolute transparency between elected officials and citizens.

Alexis Claiborne (D)

My views on financial transparency and government accountability are rooted in the belief that elected officials should serve the people, not profit from their positions or protect corrupt systems.

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

• Jay Obernolte
• Tessa Lynn Hodge

Campaign finance

Name	Party	Receipts*	Disbursements**	Cash on hand	Date
Jay Obernolte	Republican Party	$415,821	$223,065	$1,190,596	As of June 30, 2025
Edwin Alonzo	Democratic Party	$0	$0	$0	Data not available***
Paul Chakalian	Democratic Party	$24,803	$15,615	$9,188	As of June 30, 2025
Alexis Claiborne	Democratic Party	$0	$0	$0	Data not available***
Tessa Lynn Hodge	Democratic Party	$9,374	$5,265	$4,109	As of June 30, 2025
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 23rd Congressional District election, 2026
Race tracker	Race ratings
	9/9/2025	9/2/2025	8/26/2025	8/19/2025
The Cook Political Report with Amy Walter	Solid Republican	Solid Republican	Solid Republican	Solid Republican
Decision Desk HQ and The Hill	Pending	Pending	Pending	Pending
Inside Elections with Nathan L. Gonzales	Solid Republican	Solid Republican	Solid Republican	Solid Republican
Larry J. Sabato's Crystal Ball	Safe Republican	Safe Republican	Safe Republican	Safe Republican
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

This section will contain information on ballot access related to this state's elections when it is available.

District history

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

2024

See also: California's 23rd Congressional District election, 2024

California's 23rd Congressional District election, 2024 (March 5 top-two primary)

General election

General election for U.S. House California District 23

Incumbent Jay Obernolte defeated Derek Marshall in the general election for U.S. House California District 23 on November 5, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Jay Obernolte (R)	60.1	159,286
		Derek Marshall (D)	39.9	105,563

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 264,849
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Nonpartisan primary election

Nonpartisan primary for U.S. House California District 23

Incumbent Jay Obernolte and Derek Marshall advanced from the primary for U.S. House California District 23 on March 5, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Jay Obernolte (R)	63.4	70,208
✔		Derek Marshall (D)	36.6	40,477

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 110,685
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

• Matthew Favro (D)
• Miguel Arceo (D)

2022

See also: California's 23rd Congressional District election, 2022

General election

General election for U.S. House California District 23

Incumbent Jay Obernolte defeated Derek Marshall in the general election for U.S. House California District 23 on November 8, 2022.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Jay Obernolte (R)	61.0	103,197
		Derek Marshall (D)	39.0	65,908

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 169,105
= 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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Nonpartisan primary election

Nonpartisan primary for U.S. House California District 23

Incumbent Jay Obernolte and Derek Marshall defeated Blanca Azucena Gomez in the primary for U.S. House California District 23 on June 7, 2022.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Jay Obernolte (R)	60.9	57,988
✔		Derek Marshall (D)	21.8	20,776
		Blanca Azucena Gomez (D)	17.3	16,516

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 95,280
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

• Louis Gill (D)
• Bruno Amato (D)

2020

See also: California's 23rd Congressional District election, 2020

General election

General election for U.S. House California District 23

Incumbent Kevin McCarthy defeated Kim Mangone in the general election for U.S. House California District 23 on November 3, 2020.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Kevin McCarthy (R)	62.1	190,222
		Kim Mangone (D)	37.9	115,896

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 306,118
= 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 election

Nonpartisan primary for U.S. House California District 23

Incumbent Kevin McCarthy and Kim Mangone advanced from the primary for U.S. House California District 23 on March 3, 2020.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Kevin McCarthy (R)	66.5	107,897
✔		Kim Mangone (D)	33.5	54,375

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	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 162,272
= 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.

District analysis

This section will contain facts and figures related to this district's elections when those are available.

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)

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