Democratic gubernatorial candidate Xavier Becerra and Republican challenger Steve Hilton made final campaign stops across the Los Angeles area on Monday, the eve of the midterm election, as early voter turnout in California shows a significant increase compared to previous cycles.
Becerra, appearing with Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass at Homegirl Cafe, expressed optimism about the election. "Very good. Especially if I get some of those chilaquiles," Becerra told The California Post, referring to the restaurant's menu.
Bass, who is seeking reelection as mayor of Los Angeles, endorsed Becerra, stating, "We were colleagues together, worked together on the Hill, and I know he’s going to do a wonderful job." The mayoral race is also a focus of the election, with Bass facing challenger Nithya Raman.
Meanwhile, Hilton focused on his economic message, holding an event in Compton where he reiterated his promise to lower gas prices. He engaged with voters, including a Spanish-speaking woman who responded affirmatively to the prospect of voting for cheaper gas.
Political Data Inc. reported that over 6.4 million ballots had been cast in California by Sunday, representing a 17% increase over the same period before the November 2022 midterm election. Registered Democrats accounted for 51% of these early returns, with Republicans at 28% and voters with no party preference or other affiliations at 21%.
Early voting data indicates a heightened level of engagement from California voters as they prepare to cast their ballots on key races, including the state's gubernatorial contest, the Los Angeles mayoral election, and several congressional races that could influence the balance of power in Washington.