Who's In the Race

Rep. Brad Sherman (D-CA) faces Republican Larry Thompson in the Nov. 3 general election in California's 32nd District. This is a rematch: Sherman defeated Thompson in the 2024 general election, and both advanced through California's top-two primary, which sends the two highest vote-getters to the general election regardless of party. ​

Sherman has represented California in the U.S. House since 1997, previously serving on the California State Board of Equalization and working as a CPA and tax attorney before entering elected office. Thompson describes himself as an attorney, talent manager and film producer.

What They Stand For

Sherman says he works to protect Social Security and Medicare, according to his U.S. House website.

  • Abortion rights and reproductive healthcare,
  • Workers on the economy, taxes and trade; and
  • says he works to protect Social Security and Medicare.

Thompson calls for lower taxes and argues that Measure ULA, known as "The Mansion Tax," is invalid and unconstitutional, according to his campaign website.

  • Securing the border, with legal entry only for those who apply through proper channels,
  • saying the cost of medical care has become unbearable; and
  • Thompson's view that the cost of medical care has become unbearable, according to the Los Angeles Daily News candidate questionnaire.

The Money Behind the Race

Through June 30, Sherman had raised about $2.5 million and had about $2.7 million in the bank, while Thompson had raised about $34,000 and had roughly $2,200 on hand, according to Federal Election Commission filings. Sherman's cash advantage is more than 1,200 times Thompson's. Thompson also carries about $19,000 in debt, more than half of his total receipts.

Outside groups have spent about $1 million supporting Sherman, led by Valley-Westside United PAC at about $940,000, and about $401,000 opposing him, all from New Era Leadership.

Race Outlook: Ratings and Betting Markets

Cook Political Report rated the race "Solid Democratic" as of Oct. 9; Sabato's Crystal Ball rated it "Solid Democratic" as of Oct. 11; and Inside Elections rated it "Solid Democratic" as of Oct. 2. On Kalshi, traders gave Democrats, whose nominee is Sherman, a 95.17% chance of winning as of Oct. 14.

Sherman won the district with about 69% of the vote in 2022 and about 66% in 2024. Democrats have dominated California's congressional delegation, winning 40 of the state's 52 U.S. House seats in 2022 and 43 in 2024. Kamala Harris carried California in the 2024 presidential election with about 58% of the vote.

---

AllCiv makes it easy to stay politically informed and involved.

---

Spot something wrong? Report an issue with this article