STANISLAUS COUNTY, Calif. — There's close and then there was the race between John Duarte (R) and Adam Gray (D) in 2022. Now, the 2024 rematch might dwarf that; it has currently narrowed to 227 votes.
Duarte, the incumbent congressman, and Gray, the repeat challenger, have nearly broken even in the race for California's 13th Congressional district as of 5 p.m. Nov. 19. According to the Associated Press, 96% of votes have been counted.
Duarte is often listed among the most vulnerable House Republicans, given his narrow margin of victory in the last election. Another factor is the district’s Democratic tilt for the area — about 11 points over registered Republicans.
Both candidates stressed bipartisan credentials in their campaigns.
Duarte, a businessman and major grape and almond farmer, said his priorities include curbing inflation, crime rates and obtaining adequate water supplies for farmers in the drought-prone state.
Gray, a former legislator, has been critical of state water management and puts water and agriculture at the top of his issues list. He also says he wants improvements in infrastructure, renewable energy and education.
