The California Senate race, initially anticipated as a three-way Democratic contest, is now witnessing a potential upset due to a record-low voter turnout. Former baseball star and Republican candidate Steve Garvey's chances have been bolstered by the sluggish return of mail-in ballots, primarily from older, white, conservative-leaning voters. This trend has raised concerns for prominent progressives Reps. Adam Schiff, Barbara Lee, and Katie Porter.
Despite Schiff's fundraising and polling advantages, Garvey's rise has posed a threat to the political futures of Lee and Porter. The top two candidates from the March 5 primary will advance to the general election in November, setting the stage for a critical showdown in the liberal-leaning state.
