March 2024 primary election: Who's running?

John Donegan, The Bakersfield Californian
Updated ·9 min read

Dec. 15—Wednesday marked the deadline for candidate filing in Kern County in a variety of local, state and federal races for the March 5 primary election. And no amount of thoughtful and prayerful consideration could have predicted who would be on the ballot.

With the resignation of Rep. Kevin McCarthy, R-Bakersfield, Kern residents can expect a high-profile race for his successor in the 20th Congressional District. The 22nd Congressional District seat, held by Rep. David Valadao, R-Hanford, can also expect a heated contest with several challengers. And the offices of three Kern County supervisors, Bakersfield mayor and numerous judicial seats are up for election.

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