Eight candidates vie for a spot in the general election to represent California’s newly formed 9th Congressional District, but the political waters aren’t as muddy as they might seem.
Of the four Democrats and three Republicans, as well as one registered “no party preference” candidate, on the district’s ticket for the June 7 Primary Election, one name stands out.
Democrat Josh Harder will be tough to beat, says Keith Smith, an associate professor of political science at the University of the Pacific.
“Harder’s not going to have any trouble,” Smith says of the congressman’s primary chances.
Smith says Harder, who represents the former 10th District in Congress, has name recognition, funding and the right Democratic endorsements.
Though the 9th District has expanded and been renamed, Harder enters the race as the de facto incumbent.
Rep. Jerry McNerney, who announced earlier this year he would not run for reelection, represents the former 9th District, which consisted of north San Joaquin County, including Stockton, as well as areas of Contra Costa and Stanislaus counties.
The new district borders encompass nearly all of San Joaquin County, including many areas Harder represented in the old 10th District. With McNerny out of the race, Harder is the only currently serving member of Congress running.
In terms of Democratic support and funding, Harder has been endorsed by the California Democratic Party and had more than $6 million on hand in his campaign fund at the end of March. That total is leaps and bounds ahead of his competition.
One other candidate with local name recognition is Republican Tom Patti, Smith says. …
Cassie Dickman 