Laura Friedman (D) and Alex Balekian (R) advanced from the top-two primary for California’s 30th Congressional District on March 5, 2024. The general election is on November 5, 2024. As of March 14, Friedman received 30.1% of the vote and Balekian received 17.4%.
Four candidates led in noteworthy endorsements, fundraising, and local media attention: Friedman, Mike Feuer (D), Nick Melvoin (D), and Anthony Portantino, Jr. (D).
Incumbent Adam Schiff (D) ran for U.S. Senate rather than seeking re-election, leaving the district open.
Friedman, a state legislator and former film executive, said she had “achieved results on every progressive issue in California politics.” Friedman said she was focused on the next generation: “the polluters keep polluting, the rights of women and our LGBTQIA+ community members are being eroded and the growing economic inequality and a shrinking middle class make me wonder if my daughter will ever be able to purchase a home.”
Balekian, a physician, said, “My fiscal conservatism and social moderation guide my perspectives on policy, aiming for balance and pragmatism over political extremes.” His priorities included addressing homelessness, improving education outcomes, supporting small businesses, and advocating for small government. Balekian said his experience as the child of immigrants influenced his political outlook and that he plans to “redefine what it means to be a Republican, drawing strength from our shared principles and acknowledging our rich diversity.”
As of March 1, 2024, The Cook Political Report with Amy Walter, Inside Elections with Nathan L. Gonzales, and Larry J. Sabato’s Crystal Ball each rated the general election Safe/Solid Democratic.
