Los Angeles provided a rare bright spot for national Democrats in this election cycle. Despite a statewide rightward shift, Democrats were able to win four of the six most competitive California congressional races, ousting three incumbent Republicans and coming close to capturing the chamber. Their success in California, along with New York, showed that the party’s focus on coastal states paid off. With better candidates, more resources, and a message on quality of life issues, Democrats were able to reverse previous setbacks in California. The party invested heavily in key races, posting significant fundraising hauls and receiving support from major super PACs. Labor unions also played a crucial role in supporting Democratic candidates. Republicans in California felt the financial disparity, especially after losing support from former Rep. Kevin McCarthy. In New York, Democrats also increased their efforts after facing losses in 2022, investing in a coordinated campaign led by top party leaders. As a result, Democrats were able to flip four seats and reverse their previous losses. Newly elected House Democrats in New York, such as Laura Gillen and Josh Riley, focused on appealing to independent and Republican voters and standing up to fellow Democrats on certain issues. Overall, the increased focus and investment in key races led to success for Democrats in both California and New York. Sin duda, nosotros en la delegación en el Congreso estábamos muy activamente haciendo campaña en esos distritos, y simplemente teníamos candidatos de alta calidad. Los demócratas de California también acreditaron a sus candidatos por poder desafiar las sombrías perspectivas nacionales de su partido, a menudo corriendo por delante de Kamala Harris en lo más alto de la boleta. Cada uno fue capaz de establecer una marca, una narrativa que no encajaba perfectamente en lo que los republicanos intentaban etiquetar a todos los demócratas a nivel nacional.
