Three Democrats Battle for 1 November Spot in California's 48th as $7.3 Million Floods Primary
Updated
Updated · The San Diego Union-Tribune · May 31
Three Democrats Battle for 1 November Spot in California's 48th as $7.3 Million Floods Primary
3 articles · Updated · The San Diego Union-Tribune · May 31
Summary
$7.3 million in outside spending has turned California's 48th District primary into a three-way Democratic fight, with Marni von Wilpert, Ammar Campa-Najjar and Brandon Riker making final appeals before Tuesday's vote.
Jim Desmond, a Republican county supervisor backed by Donald Trump, is widely expected to secure one runoff slot, leaving Democrats to argue over who is most electable in a district crucial to House control.
Riker has spent $1.9 million—nearly twice his top Democratic rivals—while Campa-Najjar has spent $1.1 million, von Wilpert $955,000 and Desmond $785,000.
Campa-Najjar faces about $3.3 million in attacks tied to his past losses and Navy Reserve branding, while von Wilpert leans on labor endorsements and a public-safety record and Riker pitches an economist's anti-inequality message.
The stakes have risen as recent court rulings weakened Democratic redistricting gains elsewhere, making every potential pickup more valuable even as Trump's low approval gives Democrats confidence in this suburban seat.
With campaign finance oversight stalled, what are the hidden risks in the upcoming general election?
How will California's rare mid-decade redistricting ultimately impact voter power this November?
After millions were spent in the primary, how will campaign funding strategies now shift for November?
California’s 48th District: How Redistricting, Party Infighting, and Big Money Are Shaping the 2026 House Race
Overview
The June 2, 2026 primary election in California’s 48th Congressional District marked the debut of new House districts, redrawn under Proposition 50 to boost Democratic prospects in the fight for House control. Republican Jim Desmond and Democrat Marni von Wilpert emerged as the top two vote-getters, securing their spots on the November ballot. Their advancement sets up a highly anticipated general election in a pivotal district, where the outcome could influence the national balance of power. The new district lines and the candidates’ success highlight the high stakes and shifting political landscape in California.