CA-39: A Complicating Factor

Yesterday, we reported that California Congressman Ed Royce (R-Yorba Linda/Fullerton) intends to retire after the current term, but it appears that one of the potential Democratic candidates to replace him has a complicating issue.  Sen. Josh Newman (D-Brea), whose state legislative district encompasses much of the 39th Congressional, would be a logical person to enter the jungle primary campaign.  With his Senate seat not coming before the voters until 2020, Sen. Newman could run for Congress without risking his current position. 
 
Because of his vote in favor of the latest gas tax increase, however, Sen. Newman faces a qualified re-call election.  And, the vote to determine whether he holds his Senate seat will be concurrent with the 2018 jungle primary.  Therefore, it is unlikely he will be able to run for Congress and simultaneously face the re-call vote without resigning from the legislature.  Democrats already have six announced candidates for this competitive seat, so they do not lack for candidates.  On the Republican side, Rep. Royce announced that he will be supporting former Assemblyman Young Kim as his replacement.  Earlier, Mr. Kim was a member of the Congressman’s staff.

--Jim Ellis