California's 26th District House Race
Democrat Jacqui Irwin is heading to the general election in California's 26th House District after dominating the June 2 primary with 41.3% of the vote—nearly double her nearest competitor. She'll face Republican Sam Gallucci, who finished second with 20.9%, in the November 3 general election. Incumbent Julia Brownley is stepping aside after representing the district for the last 13 years.
The Candidates
Irwin is currently a member of the California State Assembly and the former mayor of Thousand Oaks. Irwin earned her B.S. in systems engineering from UC San Diego.
Gallucci is a businessman and is running a campaign focused on lowering the cost of living, education and immigration reform, and ending homelessness. Gallucci is also a pastor at Embrace Church, and B.B.A. from San Diego State University.
The Money Behind the Race
Irwin lead the candidates' financial totals in the primary, according to FEC filings, with more than $700,000 raised in total receipts. Gallucci trailed behind, with around $377,000 in total receipts. Outside spending amounted to almost $400,000 dollars, all donated by Protect Progress in support of Irwin's campaign.
Ratings vs Odds
The Cook Political Report, Inside Elections, and Sabato's Crystal Ball all agree: California's 26th is rated "solid Democratic." The prediction markets are telling a similar story: as of July 16, Kalshi placed Democrats' odds of winning the seat at 98%. All things considered, it's looking like an Irwin win in November.
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