Who's In the Race

California's 42nd Congressional District is featuring Democratic incumbent Rep. Robert Garcia (D-CA) and Republican challenger Brian Burley in the Nov. 3 general election. ​

Garcia has represented the district since 2023, previously serving as Long Beach mayor from 2014 to 2022 and on the Long Beach City Council from 2009 to 2014. In the June 2 top-two primary, Garcia took about 57% of the vote. Burley advanced with about 21%, edging out fellow Republican Noah Von Blom, who drew about 17%. Burley was elected to the Huntington Beach City School District Board of Trustees in 2024.

What They Stand For

Garcia has proposed defending democracy against efforts to undermine the democratic process, according to his official House website. He's also supported making housing safe and affordable, reducing emissions through green jobs and technology; and ensuring people who are unhoused have access to shelter, services and permanent supportive housing. Garcia serves on the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability, as well as the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.

Burley has focused his campaign on rising costs and public safety, and on a government that "remembers who it works for," according to his campaign website. He has also pledged to strive for "safe neighborhoods, quality education, and a strong economy.

The Money Behind the Race

Federal Election Commission filings show Garcia raised about $2.6 million through June 30 and had about $1.4 million in the bank. Burley raised about $231,000 through June 30 and had about $5,500 cash on hand, with about $132,000 in debt.

As of Oct. 13, outside spending in the race totals $59,219, including $10 from Sierra Club Independent Action and $59,209 in pending support from Equality PAC, all in support of Garcia.

Race Outlook: Ratings and Betting Markets

The Cook Political Report rated the race "Solid Democratic" as of Oct. 9. Sabato's Crystal Ball carried the same rating as of Oct. 11, as did Inside Elections as of Oct. 2. On Kalshi, traders gave Democrats, whose nominee is Garcia, a 96.4% chance of winning as of Oct. 13.

The district's voting history aligns with the predictions. Garcia won the district with about 68% of the vote in both 2022 and 2024 while statewide, Democrats hold a commanding majority of California's U.S. House delegation, winning 40 of 52 seats in 2022 and 43 of 52 in 2024. Meanwhile, Kamala Harris carried California in the 2024 presidential election with about 58% of the vote.

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