In a race that was never in doubt, Democrat Jacqui Irwin, a California state assemblymember, is projected to win the state's 26th Congressional District, according to Decision Desk HQ (DDHQ). The call came as polls closed in California, with Irwin defeating Republican Sam Gallucci in a district that the nonpartisan Cook Political Report rated as safely Democratic.
Irwin's victory ensures that the seat vacated by retiring Rep. Julia Brownley (D-Calif.) remains in Democratic hands. Brownley, who endorsed Irwin, praised her as a "trusted partner" in Sacramento, a sentiment echoed by California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D), who also backed her campaign.
The 26th district encompasses much of Ventura County and parts of Los Angeles County, including the cities of Moorpark, Camarillo, Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, Oxnard, and part of Simi Valley. This is a region that has consistently favored Democrats in recent cycles, and Irwin's deep local roots—she served on the Thousand Oaks Planning Commission starting in 2003 and was elected mayor in 2008—helped solidify her position.
Irwin's political career began at the local level, but she moved to the state legislature in 2014, representing the 44th Assembly District. After redistricting, she won a fourth term in 2022 representing the 42nd Assembly District. Her legislative record includes sponsorship of Proposition 1, a state ballot measure aimed at providing housing for homeless veterans, as well as advocacy for stronger gun safety regulations and action on climate change.
In her endorsement, Brownley highlighted Irwin's ability to build coalitions and stand up to the Trump administration's "attack on our values and our democracy." That message resonated with voters in a district that has become a Democratic stronghold.
Irwin's win is part of a broader trend in California, where Democrats are expected to hold their ground in the House. As Democrats seize the Senate majority, they are also looking to bolster their numbers in the House. While the 26th was never considered competitive, Irwin's victory adds to the party's overall seat count.
The race also underscores the importance of state-level experience in congressional transitions. Irwin's years in Sacramento have prepared her for the policy battles ahead, particularly on issues like housing, gun violence prevention, and environmental protection—all of which were central to her campaign.
With the election behind her, Irwin will head to Washington, D.C., to serve a freshman term in a chamber where Democrats are looking to regain momentum. Her ability to navigate a divided government will be tested, but her supporters are confident that her record of bipartisan cooperation will serve her well.
For now, the 26th district remains in Democratic hands, and Irwin is poised to take her place in the House when the new Congress convenes.
