CBS News has projected that California State Assembly member Vince Fong, supported by former President Donald Trump, has won a special election to complete the remainder of the term of former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy in the 20th Congressional District in California’s Central Valley. Fong, a McCarthy protege, defeated fellow Republican and Tulare County Sheriff Mike Boudreaux with 60% of the votes in his favor. McCarthy resigned last year after being ousted as the House Speaker, leaving behind a messy race to succeed him.
The special election only covers the remaining time in McCarthy’s term, with Fong and Boudreaux set to face each other again in November for a full two-year term. Trump’s endorsement of Fong in February has made the race a possible test of the former president’s influence as he gears up for a likely matchup against President Biden. With the district remaining in GOP hands, Republicans will gain an additional seat in the state delegation, giving them 12 out of the 52 U.S. House seats in California.
Both Fong and Boudreaux are conservative Republicans with similar policy positions, focusing on issues like law enforcement and border security. Boudreaux highlights his law-and-order experience and promises to strengthen border security, while Fong aims to address border issues and prioritize water and energy needs in the agricultural region. Fong’s advantage in campaign funds and endorsements from Trump and McCarthy have given him an edge in the race.
The involvement of Trump and McCarthy in the election has attracted attention, with the race being seen as a proxy vote on Trump’s influence within the Republican Party. The endorsements from prominent figures like Richard Grenell and Republican state Sen. Shannon Grove have further highlighted the political significance of the contest. Despite some confusion among voters due to multiple ballots featuring Fong and Boudreaux this year, the special election outcome will impact the balance of power in Congress.
The outcome of the special election will not only determine who completes McCarthy’s term but also provide an advantage of incumbency to the winning candidate in the November election. Fong’s win in the special election will bolster the Republican Party’s representation in California and strengthen their position in Congress. With Fong’s victory, Trump’s endorsement and McCarthy’s support have proven influential in shaping the political landscape in the state’s Central Valley and beyond.
