California's 39th House District Primary
On June 2, only two uncontested candidates ran in the primary election for the chance to represent California's 39th congressional district in the House: Democratic incumbent Mark Takano, and Republican challenger Steve Manos. Takano racked up 75,467 votes, or 61% of the total votes, while Manos received 48,177 votes, or the other 39%. Clearly, the momentum is favoring the incumbent as the November 3 general election approaches. The district, which covers parts of Riverside County, including Moreno Valley, has historically tended Democratic—with the only notable exception in recent years being the election of Republican Steve Cooley as Attorney General in 2010.
The Candidates
Takano has served in the House since 2013, first representing California's 41st congressional district until 2023, when he assumed representation of California's 39th district. Takano is a California native who graduated from Harvard College with a bachelor's in Government, and currently serves as ranking member of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs. Takano also serves on the House Education and Workforce Committee.
Manos is the former mayor of Lake Elsinore, as well as a California native. Manos' campaign focuses on parental rights, infrastructure funding, support for veterans, and affordable housing.
The Money Behind the Race
According to the FEC, Takano amassed more than $700,000 in total contributions for the 2026 campaign, while there is no data available for Manos—suggesting that the latter fought with far fewer resources at hand.
Ratings vs Odds
Cook Political Report rated California's 39th district as "solid Democratic," meaning that barring any major upset, Takano is predicted to secure the seat on November 3.
Betting markets are telling a similar story: as of July 15, Kalshi predicted that Democrats had a 97% chance of taking the district.
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