The race for California’s Assembly District 75 is a key contest between two Republican candidates, Carl DeMaio and Andrew Hayes, in a district that has long been a GOP stronghold.
Located in Eastern San Diego County, AD75 is one of the few remaining reliably Republican districts in the state.
Both DeMaio and Hayes are well-established figures in the local political landscape, each with their own base of support and distinct policy priorities.
With no Democratic challenger, this race will be determined by the candidate who can win over Republicans as well as No Party Preference (NPP) and Democratic voters.
The district’s conservative electorate includes 42% registered voters who are Republican, compared to 29% Democratic, and 21% who are NPPs.
Even though DeMaio did well in the primary, the November election results are expected to be close, especially in light of DeMaio’s failed attempt to boost the Democrat in the primary so that he would not have to face a Republican challenger in the general election.
Carl DeMaio: San Diego's Conservative Activist
DeMaio is a well-known conservative activist, talk show host, and former San Diego city councilmember who ran unsuccessfully for mayor in the City of San Diego several years ago.
He has built his campaign on a platform of fiscal conservatism, public safety, and government reform. DeMaio has positioned himself as a leader who is unafraid to take on the establishment and who has a track record of pushing for conservative policies.
DeMaio’s platform focuses on reducing taxes, cutting government spending, and opposing what he describes as “out-of-control” regulations. He has received endorsements from several conservative organizations and prominent GOP figures.
“Our district needs a representative who will fight for limited government, lower taxes, and the values that make our community strong,” DeMaio said during a recent campaign event.
His campaign website says:
“Fight or Flee. That’s the choice that millions of common-sense Californians are facing as California’s cost-of-living skyrockets higher and state politicians continue to enact extreme policies that have spiked our cost of living, filled our streets with crime and homelessness, and infringed on our personal freedoms. For Carl DeMaio the choice is simple: STAND AND FIGHT!”
On public safety, DeMaio has been a vocal advocate for tough-on-crime policies and has criticized efforts to reduce police funding. He argues that a strong stance on law and order is essential for maintaining the safety and prosperity of the district.
Andrew Hayes: The Lifelong Local Conservative
Hayes presents himself as a grassroots candidate with a deep commitment to the residents of AD75. A lifelong resident of East County, Hayes says on his campaign website, he has emphasized his anti-establishment status and his connection to the everyday concerns of voters he would represent if elected.
Hayes’ platform includes a focus on economic growth, education reform, and protecting individual liberties. He is Board president of the Lakeside Union School District Board of Trustees. He has garnered support from local business groups and conservative grassroots organizations.
“Our communities are being crushed by reckless spending and radical agendas,” Hayes says on his website. “I’ve been on the frontlines of the fight for our conservative principles. I’ll stand up against the career politicians in Sacramento to fight for lower taxes, lower water and energy bills, public safety, and ensure parents have a say in their kids’ education.”
On public safety, Hayes has also taken a strong stance in support of law enforcement, advocating for increased resources for police and tougher penalties for criminal offenses. He has positioned himself as a candidate who will prioritize the safety and security of the district’s communities.
What’s at Stake?
The AD75 race is crucial within the Republican Party, as it will determine who will represent this solidly conservative district.
The outcome of this contest will likely reflect the broader ideological direction of the GOP in the region, whether it leans toward DeMaio’s hardline conservative activist approach or Hayes’ more locally driven conservatism.
As the general election approaches, both DeMaio and Hayes are expected to focus on mobilizing their base and persuading undecided Republican voters. But they can’t ignore the 40% of voters who aren’t signed up for the Republican Party’s agenda.