California could decide which party controls the U.S. House. Both sides are spending big

Andrew Sheeler
·3 min read

Good morning and welcome to the Election Day edition of the A.M. Alert!

BIG MONEY FLOODS CENTRAL VALLEY CONGRESSIONAL RACES

Via Gillian Brassil...

Tons of money poured into California’s Central Valley to defend vulnerable incumbents and bolster challengers in swing districts. Last-minute spending targeted voters in some of the nation’s closest contests that could tilt control of the House of Representatives.

In California’s 13th Congressional District, Rep. John Duarte, R-Modesto, had more than $959,000 in campaign money on hand by the middle of October, according to the most recent Federal Election Commission report. Former Assemblyman Adam Gray, D-Merced, had over $799,000. The race is considered a tossup, according to nonpartisan election analysts.

Duarte’s campaign spent over $996,000 in the first two weeks of October. Gray’s, near $1.2 million.

In California’s 22nd Congressional District, Rep. David Valadao, R-Hanford, had almost $910,000 left over. Former Assemblyman Rudy Salas, D-Bakersfield, had over $562,000. The race is a tossup.

Valadao’s campaign spent almost $777,000 in the first two weeks of October. Salas’, more than $1.9 million.

In California’s 3rd Congressional District, Rep. Kevin Kiley had more than $909,000 remaining. His Democratic opponent, wildfire resiliency specialist Jessica Morse, had more than $179,000. Analysts say the district will likely, but not definitely, pick Kiley, R-Roseville.

Kiley’s campaign spent more than $795,000 in the first two weeks of October. Morse’s, almost $474,000.

In California’s 9th Congressional District, Rep. Josh Harder had more than $2.3 million in campaign cash. Stockton Mayor Kevin Lincoln, a Republican, had over $186,000. Analysts say the district will likely, but not definitely, choose Harder, D-Tracy.

Harder’s campaign spent more than $661,000 in the first two weeks of October. Lincoln’s, over $277,000.

A campaign’s fundraising and spending aren’t the only money dumps in districts. Outside spending includes political expenditures from groups that aren’t allowed to communicate with campaigns.

Campaign finances are far from the only factor in determining an election, but cash on hand throughout the race lets candidates spend more on advertisements, events and other supplies. It’s also good to have that money in case of unexpected issues.

Funds come from a wide range of sources, including those not specified in the candidate’s official report, from individual donors, political action committees, other lawmakers and others sources.

And how money is spent by campaigns post-election can provide some clarity on what that candidate wants to do in the future, whether that’s seeking re-election, running for another office, taking a position in the party or retiring.

Candidates aren’t supposed to use that remaining campaign cash for personal use. It can be given to other candidates, political party groups and action committees and charities. And it could go toward a recount fund.

QUOTE OF THE DAY

“This measure is not about avoiding accountability — it’s about fostering rehabilitation, reducing recidivism, and ultimately making our communities safer. By equipping incarcerated individuals with education, job training, and support programs, we are enhancing their ability to reintegrate into society and preventing future offenses.”

- Sacramento County District Attorney Thien Ho, endorsing California Proposition 6 — to abolish forced labor for incarcerated people — in a statement.

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