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Political Breakdown

Republican vs. Democrat in One of California's Most Gerrymandered Districts

Rep. James Gallagher is trying to hold onto a district that critics say was tailor-made for state Sen. Mike McGuire.
Marisa LagosScott Shafer
Rep. James Gallagher arrives for the House Republican Conference caucus meeting in the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026.  (Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images)

California’s 1st Congressional District was at the center of last year’s partisan redistricting wars. The district used to encompass the rural northeast corner of the state — a red stronghold in blue California. Democrats moved it southwest, drawing in more blue regions like the city of Santa Rosa, when they redrew the congressional maps. It’s now considered a safe Democratic seat. 

Marisa and Scott sit down with the Republican and the Democrat vying to represent this new district in Congress. 

First, they talk to Rep. James Gallagher, a former state Assembly member. He was elected to represent the old district earlier this year after the sudden death of longtime Republican Congressman Doug LaMalfa.

Then, they are joined by state Sen. Mike McGuire, who has represented the North Bay in the Legislature since 2014 and spent three years as Senate leader.

Senate President Pro Tem Mike McGuire speaks during a press conference, before Gov. Gavin Newsom signs the Election Rigging Response Act in Sacramento on Aug. 21, 2025.  (Miguel Gutierrez Jr./CalMatters)

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