What's happened
Democratic Rep. Adam Schiff and Republican Steve Garvey emerged as the top contenders in California's Senate race, with Schiff likely to win the general election. Schiff's campaign tactics have sparked division within the Democratic Party, with progressive candidates criticizing his strategy of propping up a Republican opponent to secure an easier path to victory.
Why it matters
The California Senate race has significant implications for the Democratic Party, as Adam Schiff's controversial campaign tactics have led to internal divisions. The outcome of this race will determine California's representation in the Senate and could impact the balance of power in Congress. Schiff's strategic maneuvering and Garvey's unexpected success highlight the complexities of political campaigns and the influence of money in elections.
What the papers say
The Times of Israel emphasizes the rare opportunity for the GOP in a Democratic stronghold, highlighting Garvey's determination to appeal across party lines. In contrast, Axios delves into the internal Democratic discord caused by Schiff's campaign tactics, with progressive candidates criticizing his approach. Business Insider UK focuses on Schiff's strategic use of his anti-Trump reputation and substantial campaign funds to boost Garvey's candidacy, effectively sidelining progressive challenger Katie Porter.
How we got here
The California Senate race features Democratic Rep. Adam Schiff and Republican Steve Garvey as the top contenders vying for the seat previously held by the late Dianne Feinstein. Schiff's campaign strategy involved elevating Garvey to secure an easier path to victory in the general election, leading to criticism from progressive Democrats. The outcome of this race will shape California's Senate representation and has broader implications for the Democratic Party's unity and electoral strategies.
More on these topics
-
Adam Bennett Schiff is an American politician serving as the U.S. Representative for California's 28th congressional district since 2001. He is a member of the Democratic Party.
-
The United States Senate is the upper chamber of the United States Congress, which, along with the United States House of Representatives—the lower chamber—constitutes the legislature of the United States.
-
California is a state in the Pacific Region of the United States. With 39.5 million residents across a total area of about 163,696 square miles, California is the most populous U.S. state and the third-largest by area, and is also the world's thirty-fourt
-
Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.
-
Katherine Moore Porter is an American law professor, attorney and politician serving as the U.S. Representative for California's 45th congressional district since 2019.