California Republicans are optimistic about their chances in two key suburban races in Orange County, with candidates such as Scott Baugh and Matt Gunderson running on issues like retail crime, inflation, and border security to attract moderate voters. Both candidates have been designated as “Young Guns” by the National Republican Congressional Committee, and their races are seen as competitive by the Cook Political Report. Baugh, a former state representative, is optimistic about the potential for reform and prosperity in California, while Gunderson, a pro-choice Republican, aims to shift the conversation to other important issues beyond abortion.
Winning these districts could help Republicans maintain and grow their majority in the US House, similar to how they secured victories in bright blue New York in 2022. Baugh is running for an open seat in the 47th Congressional District against Democratic State Sen. Dave Min, while Gunderson is challenging Democratic Rep. Mike Levin for his seat. Both candidates are focused on addressing critical issues such as border security, the economy, and crime in their respective districts, engaging in conversations that resonate with voters.
Border security is a key issue for Baugh and Gunderson, who believe that securing the border must be a priority before addressing comprehensive immigration reform. They emphasize the need for executive actions to address the immediate threats posed by illegal immigration, along with legislative solutions to address the root causes. Crime is also a significant concern in these affluent districts, as high-end shopping centers like South Coast Plaza Mall are impacted by smash-and-grabs, leading to a growing realization among residents about the need for stronger enforcement of criminal statutes.
Despite a historically blue state, Republicans in California believe that there is still hope for a political shift in the future. Many residents have left in what has been called the “California exodus,” but candidates like Baugh and Gunderson see an opportunity to swing the pendulum back towards the center or center-right. Democrats, however, remain confident in their ability to retain the two seats, with the DCCC referring to Baugh as “dangerously extreme and out of touch” and Gunderson as “a rubber stamp on the GOP’s toxic agenda prioritizing the ultra-wealthy.”
Overall, the suburban races in Orange County represent a battleground for Republicans and Democrats in California, with the outcome potentially impacting the balance of power in the US House. Baugh and Gunderson are banking on issues like crime, inflation, and border security to appeal to voters and secure victories in their respective districts. As the campaigns continue to unfold, both parties are gearing up for a competitive and heated race to win over moderate voters and drive the narrative towards their respective policy priorities.
