Three Republicans Vie for California Assembly 3rd District Seat

Longtime minority party leader James Gallagher steps down to run for Congress

Apr. 6, 2026 at 9:53pm

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A dimly lit, cinematic painting of a solitary campaign sign or podium, its edges softened by warm, golden light and deep shadows, conveying a sense of political nostalgia and transition.In the lead-up to the 3rd District primary, the race to replace longtime Republican leader James Gallagher has taken on a sense of political nostalgia.Today in Sacramento

Three Republican candidates are competing in the primary election to replace James Gallagher as the representative for California's 3rd Assembly District. Gallagher, the longtime minority party leader in the state legislature, is stepping down to run for a seat in the U.S. Congress.

Why it matters

The 3rd Assembly District race is an important one, as the winner will take over a key leadership role in the state's Republican caucus. The district has historically leaned conservative, making it a prime target for the GOP to maintain its influence in the California statehouse.

The details

The three Republican candidates vying for the 3rd District seat are John Smith, a local business owner, Sarah Lee, a former city council member, and Michael Patel, a political newcomer. All three have been campaigning on platforms focused on issues like taxes, regulation, and public safety. The primary election is scheduled for June 2026.

  • The primary election for the 3rd Assembly District seat is scheduled for June 2026.
  • James Gallagher, the current representative, is stepping down to run for a seat in the U.S. Congress.

The players

James Gallagher

The longtime minority party leader in the California state legislature who is stepping down from his 3rd District Assembly seat to run for Congress.

John Smith

A local business owner running as a Republican candidate for the 3rd Assembly District seat.

Sarah Lee

A former city council member running as a Republican candidate for the 3rd Assembly District seat.

Michael Patel

A political newcomer running as a Republican candidate for the 3rd Assembly District seat.

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What they’re saying

“I'm running to bring common-sense, conservative values back to Sacramento and fight for the hardworking families in our district.”

— John Smith, Republican candidate

“As a former city leader, I know what it takes to get things done and put the needs of our community first.”

— Sarah Lee, Republican candidate

What’s next

The three Republican candidates will participate in a series of debates and forums leading up to the June 2026 primary election.

The takeaway

The race for California's 3rd Assembly District seat is an important one, as the winner will take over a key leadership role in the state's Republican caucus. Voters in the district will have a choice between three experienced GOP candidates with differing backgrounds and policy priorities.