California Senate Race: How Adam Schiff Outmaneuvered Steve Garvey Amidst Challenges

Democrat Adam Schiff wins California’s U.S. Senate seat, defeating Republican Steve Garvey in a race that highlighted national issues and local challenges.

At a Glance

Adam Schiff, a Democrat, won the U.S. Senate seat previously held by Dianne Feinstein
Steve Garvey, a former MLB star, ran as a moderate Republican
Schiff’s campaign focused on national issues like abortion rights and climate change
The race cost over $85 million, making it the ninth most expensive U.S. Senate race this election
California will not have a woman representing it in the Senate for the first time in over 30 years

Schiff Secures Victory in California Senate Race

Democratic Representative Adam Schiff has won the U.S. Senate seat in California, defeating Republican challenger and former baseball star Steve Garvey. The race, called by the Associated Press as soon as polls closed, marks a significant shift in California politics, traditionally dominated by veteran Democratic politicians.

Schiff, known for his role as lead prosecutor in President Trump’s first impeachment trial, campaigned on national issues such as defending abortion rights and addressing climate change. His victory ensured continued Democratic control of the seat previously held by the late Dianne Feinstein.

Rep. Adam Schiff beat Steve Garvey, a former baseball star, to fill the late Dianne Feinstein’s open Senate seat in California. https://t.co/A3H4S36Lab

— The New York Times (@nytimes) November 6, 2024

Garvey’s Campaign and Republican Challenges

Steve Garvey, a former MLB star, entered the race as an outsider with a “conservative moderate” platform. He focused on critical state issues like the rising homeless population and cost of living concerns. Despite his efforts, Garvey faced an uphill battle in a state where Democrats hold every statewide office and dominate the Legislature.

Garvey’s campaign strategy involved distancing himself from former President Trump, who did not endorse him. He ran a low-key campaign, focusing on fundraising and avoiding Republican Party events.

Campaign Spending and Strategies

The Schiff-Garvey race was one of the most expensive in the country, with over $85 million spent. Schiff’s campaign invested heavily to elevate Garvey and edge out fellow Democrats Katie Porter and Barbara Lee in the primary. This strategy faced criticism for potentially boosting Republican turnout and reducing diverse representation in the Senate.

Schiff’s victory comes after a campaign that highlighted his congressional experience since 2000, contrasting with Garvey’s outsider status. The Democrat led significantly in both fundraising and polling, with a recent poll showing a 55% to 34% lead over Garvey.

Looking Ahead: Schiff’s Senate Role

As Schiff prepares to take his seat in the Senate, his seniority and influence will depend on the party control of the Senate and the outcome of the presidential race. Schiff has supported national abortion rights, gun control measures, and affordable housing initiatives. On immigration, he supports border control improvements and has criticized a Biden administration asylum policy.

Schiff’s victory marks a new chapter in California’s political landscape, with the state not having a woman representing it in the Senate for the first time in over 30 years. As he takes office, Schiff faces the challenge of addressing both national and state-specific issues in his new role as U.S. Senator.