Donald Trump influences California congressional race

Donald Trump’s influence is a central factor in a highly contentious Republican race for California’s 40th Congressional District. The contest features incumbent Representative Ken Calvert and Representative Young Kim, both of whom are navigating the political landscape of a district that Trump won by 12 points.

Calvert has criticized Kim, labeling her a “Trump-traitor,” while a super PAC aligned with Calvert, Americans 4 Security, has spent $2.9 million on advertisements targeting her. Simultaneously, the same PAC has reportedly sent mailers to Democratic voters that emphasize Kim’s pro-Trump record, a tactic intended to discourage Democratic crossover support.

In response, Kim has launched advertisements focusing on Calvert’s past controversies, including a 2009 editorial that questioned his integrity.