Democratic candidate Adam Gray narrowly defeated Republican incumbent Rep. John Duarte in a closely contested congressional race in California, as per results from the California Secretary of State. Gray secured victory by 187 votes, further narrowing the Republican majority in Congress when the new session begins on January 3.
In the 119th Congress, Republicans won 220 seats compared to Democrats’ 215. However, with former Rep. Matt Gaetz deciding not to take the oath of office and Reps. Elise Stefanik and Mike Walz expected to step down to join the Trump administration, the balance of power could temporarily shift to 217 Republicans and 215 Democrats next year.
Gray, a former member of the California State Assembly, emphasized the need for independent and accountable leadership that prioritizes the people of the Central Valley over partisan politics in his victory statement. The Associated Press called the race in Gray’s favor early Wednesday morning, with Duarte conceding shortly after.
Duarte, a freshman congressman who narrowly defeated Gray in the 2022 election, faced a tough battle in this year’s race. California law mandates election result certification by December 5. Gray’s win signifies a shift in the political landscape of the district and sets the stage for his term as the new representative.
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