The race for California’s Assembly District 36 is shaping up to be a close contest between Republican Jeff Gonzalez and Democrat Joey Acuña, Jr.

AD36 is a diverse district that includes both urban areas and vast rural stretches, making it a unique battleground in the upcoming election. It consists of all of Imperial County and a large portion of Riverside County, including areas on the eastern and northeastern sides of the Coachella Valley.

This district includes tribal lands and communities that run along the California/Arizona border and the United States/Mexico border, which are all connected by environmental and health concerns related to the Salton Sea and agricultural interests. 

The race is expected to be closely watched as both parties vie for control in this competitive district that is 43% Democratic, with 21% No Party Preference (NPPs) and 28% Republican voters. It means whoever wins will have to appeal to independent voters without alienating their partisan base. 

In June, “Gonzalez, a Republican, announced a coalition of Democrats behind his campaign to defeat Democratic rival and Coachella Valley Unified School District board member Joey Acuña Jr.” the Imperial Valley Press reported.

Jeff Gonzalez: The Republican Building Democratic Support

A Marine Corps veteran, Gonzalez has focused his campaign on three core issues: cost of living, education, and bipartisanship.

Gonzalez’s campaign has drawn support from farmers, law enforcement and business organizations. But, perhaps most notably, Gonzalez has drawn a number of Democratic endorsements, including former Imperial County Democratic Central Committee chair and former Imperial Irrigation District Director Tony Gallegos. 

“Jeff is the type of guy who will sit down, put politics aside, and work together to solve problems. We need more of that. Bipartisan leaders like him who are willing to work across the aisle for a better Imperial County,” Gallegos said.

Joey Acuña: The Democrat with A Strong Base of Local Support

Acuña’s deep roots in the district’s rural communities have positioned him as a candidate who understands the unique challenges facing the area. He has focused his campaign on improving schools, combating rising costs, reducing homelessness, jobs, climate change, and health care.

“Joey Acuña is currently serving his fifth term on the Coachella Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees. In this role, he’s worked to improve graduation rates, enhance after-school programs, and expand the district’s college and career pathway programs,” his campaign website says.

Acuña’s campaign has received support from labor groups, educators, and community activists. 

“I’m running for State Assembly because l believe in the promise of California, and I want to make sure the kids who grow up in our district have access to world-class schools, good-paying jobs, and clean air and water. I’ll listen to residents and work hard every day to improve and protect our quality of life. I’d be honored to earn your vote,” Acuña says on his campaign website.

What’s at Stake?

The AD36 race is critical for both parties as they seek to secure control of key legislative seats in Riverside and Imperial Counties. 

As the general election approaches, both Gonzalez and Acuña are expected to intensify their efforts to appeal to undecided and NPP voters, particularly those in the district’s suburban and rural areas.