California Local and Legislative Races Draw Voter Focus

California voters face several closely watched local and legislative contests over housing, city finances, public safety and leadership. In San Diego’s District 2 runoff, Democrat Nicole Crosby and independent Richard Bailey differ over city staffing and budget cuts, Mayor Todd Gloria’s influence and neighborhood priorities; Crosby appears favored in the Democratic-leaning district. Santa Ana voters will decide three City Council races and a mayoral contest that could shift the council majority. In the 66th Assembly District, Democrats Sara Deen and Paul Seo are competing to replace a term-limited incumbent, drawing on backgrounds in health care, education, law and local government. San Leandro Mayor Gonzalez is seeking reelection, citing work on public safety, infrastructure and homelessness, while challenger Maes warns of budget problems and government dysfunction. San Diego County election officials say more than two million ballots have been mailed, encourage ballot tracking and say audits will help verify election security.