Adam Gray, a Democrat, has been declared the winner in California’s 13th Congressional District, flipping the seat from Republican control. The Associated Press called the race Tuesday, nearly a month after the election, with Gray edging out incumbent Rep. John Duarte (R-CA) by fewer than 200 votes.
This is the second consecutive contest between the two candidates, following a 2022 race where Duarte narrowly defeated Gray by less than 600 votes. Gray predicted another close finish this year and delivered, flipping the seat after weeks of counting.
Duarte conceded Tuesday night, taking the loss in stride. “I’m a citizen legislator,” he said, adding that he never intended to make a long-term career in Congress.
Gray’s campaign focused on renewable energy, addressing water shortages, and other agricultural issues affecting the Central Valley. Duarte, while also tackling local concerns, centered his campaign on national issues like inflation and crime.
In a statement on X, Gray expressed gratitude to voters and pledged to prioritize bipartisan solutions. He highlighted plans to improve infrastructure, provide clean water, and create more jobs for the region. “The work has just begun,” he wrote, signaling his commitment to addressing local challenges.
Gray’s victory narrows the Republican majority in the House to five seats, though this balance may change as some members are set to join President-elect Donald Trump’s Cabinet in the coming weeks.
