The Fate of Rep. McCarthy’s Seat

After Rep. Kevin McCarthy’s surprising announcement that he will be resigning from Congress by the end of the year, the race is on to succeed him in California’s 20th District. The district, based in Bakersfield, has never had a Democratic congressman and is considered the safest for Republicans in the state.

State Sen. Shannon Grove, a strong Donald Trump supporter, has already declared her candidacy. Despite being controversial in some circles due to her outspoken support of the former president and his claims about the 2020 election, Grove has represented a senate district larger than the entire congressional district.

Another contender expected to join the race is State Assemblyman Vince Fong, who worked in McCarthy’s district office before moving to the Assembly and is set to have the public endorsement and full support from McCarthy.

Republican Assemblyman Devon Mathis and former GOP congressman Devin Nunes, who has not discouraged talk of a potential candidacy, are also mentioned for the seat.

The filing deadline to run for Congress is automatically extended by five days if an incumbent decides to step down. All questions about candidates will be answered by Dec. 13. Governor Gavin Newsom is expected to designate March 5 as the date of the special election in the 20th District, with a potential runoff in June if no candidate wins a majority.

John Gizzi is chief political columnist and White House correspondent for Newsmax. For more of his reports, Go Here Now.