Yes
They should.
No
They shouldn’t.
California has long been one of America’s strongest Democratic states, but the approaching 2026 midterm elections are giving Republicans another opportunity to make their case to voters.
President Donald Trump remains the dominant national figure in the Republican Party, and the political battle over California matters far beyond the state’s borders. California has the largest congressional delegation in the country, meaning even relatively small shifts in competitive House districts can have national consequences.
For Republicans, the argument for political change often centers on issues such as taxes, regulations, crime, homelessness, housing affordability, energy costs and the overall cost of living. GOP candidates have repeatedly argued that decades of Democratic dominance in Sacramento have left voters without enough political competition.
Democrats offer a very different assessment. They point to California’s enormous economy, technology sector, environmental policies and state programs while arguing that Republican approaches on immigration, abortion, climate policy and other issues do not reflect the preferences of most California voters.
The question therefore goes beyond whether someone personally likes President Trump or California’s Democratic leadership. It is also about whether voters benefit when one political party maintains overwhelming control for an extended period.
Supporters of greater Republican representation argue that competitive elections can force politicians from both parties to pay closer attention to voters. Democrats counter that voters have repeatedly chosen Democratic candidates because those candidates more closely reflect the state’s political priorities.
National conditions could also affect the debate. Republicans are attempting to protect their congressional strength in the 2026 midterms, while Democrats are trying to capitalize on concerns over the economy and cost of living. Recent Reuters/Ipsos polling indicates Democrats currently hold an advantage nationally among registered voters when respondents are asked which party has a better plan for dealing with living costs.
California voters will ultimately decide whether they want to maintain the state’s current political direction or give Republican candidates greater influence.
Regardless of party affiliation, that is a decision that belongs to the electorate.