By Sydney Dalske
California’s senate race was expected to be a heated battle among democrats, but the likelihood of a historically low turnout has stirred the possibility of a Republican upset by Steve Garvey, a former baseball star.
In a year overshadowed by the looming presidential rematch, California voters have been slow to return to mail-in ballots, signaling a potential crisis in engagement. The slow amount of ballots coming in predominantly comes from older, white, conservative-leaning homeowners giving an advantage to Republicans like Garvey, renowned for his tenure with the Dodgers and Padres.
Initially, Rep. Adam Schiff seemed to have the upper hand in fundraising and polling within the democratic field. However, Garvey’s surge has put Reps such as Barbara Lee and Katie Porter at risk. The top 2 candidates from the March 5 contest, regardless of party affiliation, will progress to the general election in November, in California known for its liberal leanings.
Porter’s campaign has sounded alarms, warning of potential defeat without increased financial support. Meanwhile, Schiff, known for his role in the impeachment of former president Donald Trump, underscores the importance of voter turnout for the “sake of democracy”.
The race, once anticipated to showcase Democratic rivals, has seen a remarkable shift with Garvey’s entry, highlighting the need for broader engagement. Despite challenges such as political apathy among young voters, whose participation remains disproportionately low, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
While seasoned politicians like Schiff, Porter and Lee dominate the race, their policies may not resonate with all voters, particularly the younger demographic. Garvey’s presence adds a different dynamic, emphasizing the need for diverse representation and broader political discourse.
The battle for California’s Senate seat underscores the significance of every vote, especially among young people who historically under participate in elections, As the race unfolds, it serves as a reminder to new voters of the power they hold in shaping the political landscape and driving meaningful change.
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