A recent Morning Consult/Politico poll has sent ripples through the U.S. Senate race in California, indicating a surprising turn that could pose significant hurdles for Democratic Representative Adam Schiff.
In a report released by Conservative Brief on Tuesday, December 26, Republican candidate Steve Garvey, a former baseball player, has emerged as a formidable contender, securing second place with 19% of the vote. This unexpected surge has eclipsed the positions of prominent Democrats in the race.
According to the poll findings, Schiff leads with 28% support, while Congressional Democrats Katie Porter and Barbara Lee trail behind, capturing 17% and 14% support, respectively.
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The crucial California primary scheduled for March 5 will determine the two candidates advancing to the November general election.
Should Garvey cement his position in second place, it could potentially pave the way for Schiff’s victory, leaving Porter and Lee trailing without a substantial chance to challenge him in the general election.
Despite the Cook Political Report categorizing this race as a “Solid D” seat, recent developments suggest a potential upset in the making.
California, a state that favored Joe Biden by nearly 30 points in the 2020 presidential election, traditionally leans Democratic. Initially considered a front-runner with Biden leading the 2024 Democratic nomination, Schiff faces an unexpected challenge due to Garvey’s surge, injecting an element of uncertainty into the race.
Schiff boasts a formidable fundraising prowess, having amassed $21.5 million, while Porter has raised $22.1 million. In contrast, Garvey’s fundraising figures remain undisclosed. The former baseball player is aiming to run a campaign centered on “common sense,” distinguishing himself from the left-wing approach of the Democrats.
The incumbent senator, Laphonza Butler, appointed by Governor Gavin Newsom following Senator Feinstein’s passing, has opted not to seek re-election.
Potential competition looms from Ifhat Butler, president of the pro-choice EMILYs List, who possesses a robust political network and fundraising capacity.
However, Schiff’s campaign faces added challenges stemming from allegations regarding his claim of dual residences in Maryland and California for over a decade, purportedly to benefit from homeowner tax breaks.
The controversy is compounded by claims suggesting Schiff rarely occupies his California apartment, raising doubts about the authenticity of his primary residence.
Reports from The New York Post indicate that Schiff designated his Maryland property as his primary residence in 2003, potentially creating an obstacle for his U.S. Senate aspirations.
As the Senate election draws nearer, Schiff finds himself navigating a complex political landscape, juggling internal party dynamics, fundraising hurdles, and controversies surrounding his residency claims.
The outcome of the election remains uncertain, signaling that Schiff’s once-certain victory now faces a confluence of challenges, throwing the race wide open.
