California’s primary election is underway, testing the new Congressional maps approved with the passage of Proposition 50. These maps, driven by Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom, aim to shift up to five Republican-held seats to Democrats, countering efforts in Texas to gain seats for Republicans.

Key Races in Southern California

In Southern California, Republican Representatives Ken Calvert and Young Kim find themselves in a newly drawn conservative district, the 40th, battling over their pro-Trump credentials. This race is a significant change under the Prop 50 maps, with Calvert’s previous district, the 41st, now part of the 35th district, where Democrat Norma Torres faces Republican Mike Cargile.

Long-time Representative Darrell Issa’s retirement, following district changes, opens the door for San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond, endorsed by both Issa and former President Trump, in a race with potential national impact.

Other Notable Contests

In the Central Valley, Republican David Valadao’s seat has been redrawn to favor Democrats, with Assemblywoman Jasmeet Bains and Randy Villegas vying to challenge him in the general election. Meanwhile, in San Francisco, Scott Wiener is likely to advance to replace retiring Nancy Pelosi, facing either Saikat Chakrabarti or Connie Chan.

Sacramento sees city council member Mai Vang challenging long-serving Rep. Doris Matsui, while in Southern California, Rep. Brad Sherman faces a challenge from Democrat Jake Levine. In Northern California, Rep. Mike Thompson is challenged by Eric Jones, a former venture capitalist.

In the San Francisco suburbs, the race to replace Eric Swalwell, who resigned amid allegations, features six Democrats and two Republicans, with a special election set for June 18 to fill the remainder of his term.

Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.