Jones challenges longtime Thompson for California House seat

California’s 4th Congressional District race pits 35-year-old Democrat Eric Jones, a wealthy former venture capitalist, against 75-year-old incumbent Mike Thompson, who has represented the region for nearly three decades. Jones is campaigning on generational change, economic opportunity and curbing corporate influence, while Thompson emphasizes his experience and record of securing federal funding for the district. Their debates have featured disagreements over affordability, healthcare and data centers, alongside some shared positions on issues including congressional age limits and a wealth tax. Jones has invested nearly $15 million of his own money in the campaign, prompting Thompson’s campaign to accuse him of trying to buy the seat. Two October polls commissioned by Jones’s campaign showed him leading Thompson by 10 to 13 points, but the results are not independent; Thompson’s campaign has disputed Jones’s case for change and defended the incumbent’s record.