Republicans scored a significant victory in California’s 40th Congressional District after two GOP candidates emerged as the top finishers in the state’s primary election, effectively guaranteeing that the seat will remain in Republican hands this November.
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According to Decision Desk HQ results, incumbent U.S. Rep. Ken Calvert and fellow Republican Rep. Young Kim are projected to advance to the general election after several days of vote counting. The outcome means Democrats have been shut out of the race despite hopes that recent redistricting changes would make the district more competitive.
With approximately 73 percent of ballots counted, Calvert led the field with about 35.7 percent of the vote, while Kim secured second place with roughly 21.1 percent. Democratic candidate Esther Kim-Varet finished third with approximately 16.2 percent, followed by several other Democratic contenders.
California’s unique top-two primary system places all candidates on a single ballot regardless of party affiliation. The two highest vote-getters advance to the general election, even if they belong to the same political party. As a result, voters in November will choose between two Republican candidates rather than a Republican and Democrat.
The race attracted national attention after California’s 2025 redistricting plan reshaped several congressional districts. The newly configured 40th District combined portions of territory previously represented by both Calvert and Kim, creating a district that stretches across parts of Orange and Riverside counties, including communities such as Mission Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, Murrieta, Menifee, and Villa Park.
Despite expectations that the redraw could improve Democratic prospects, the primary results delivered a major setback for the party. Instead of creating a pickup opportunity, the district will remain under Republican control regardless of the outcome in November.
Political analysts note that the district carries a Republican advantage based on recent voting patterns. The Cook Political Report rates the district at R+6, reflecting a history of Republican-leaning electoral performance. While Democrats hoped a favorable political environment could make the seat competitive, the top-two primary results effectively removed the district from their list of potential gains.
For Republicans, the outcome represents an important win in California, a state where GOP candidates have often faced difficult electoral terrain. With both Calvert and Kim advancing, the party has secured one more House seat ahead of the 2026 congressional landscape while preserving its presence in a key Southern California district.
Benjamin Harris is a RapidReports front page contributor and editor,proud father of four.
