BREAKING: Audrey Denney and Assemblyman James Gallagher have officially entered the urgent race for Congressional District 1 in California, following the recent death of Congressman Doug LaMalfa. The candidates filed their paperwork and took their oaths just before the deadline on Friday, March 6, 2026, ensuring their names will appear on the ballots for the critical elections scheduled for June 2.
The race will include a special election to fill LaMalfa’s vacant seat, with the winner serving the remainder of his term until January 27. With the clock ticking, both Denney and Gallagher are gearing up for a fierce contest against other potential frontrunners, including former State Senator Mike McGuire (D-Healdsburg).
Denney, who took her oath on Thursday, emphasized the importance of grassroots involvement, stating on Facebook,
“This campaign is about something bigger than one race. It’s about showing that regular people — not corporations or political insiders — still have the power to shape our democracy.”
Her passionate appeal highlights the urgency and significance of citizen participation in the electoral process.
Gallagher, who filed his paperwork alongside supporters at the Butte County Elections Office, expressed confidence in his campaign’s momentum. “You’ve got to get 50% of the vote plus one so that we can go back and immediately have a voice in Washington, D.C. and we’re going to do that,” he said. Gallagher’s assertion reflects a determination to challenge the status quo and advocate for the needs of north state residents.
As the race heats up, candidates must meticulously track all donations from individuals, political action committees, and businesses, with pre-election statements due by April 11. The urgency of the situation is clear: if one candidate secures more than 50% of the vote in the special election, they will take the seat immediately. If not, a general election will follow in August.
Meanwhile, the statewide primary for a full two-year term beginning in 2027 will also occur on June 2. Notably, the special primary will have a separate ballot mailed to voters, adding a layer of complexity to this critical electoral cycle.
Stay tuned for further developments as Denney and Gallagher ramp up their campaigns in this pivotal race, shaping the future of California politics. With the stakes at an all-time high, the coming weeks will be crucial for both candidates as they seek to secure their positions in Congress.
