California Senate Candidates’ Positions on Key Issues
The race for California’s new U.S. senator is heating up as the five major contenders position themselves to appeal to voters before the March 5 primary. Each candidate has a unique track record and proposals on key issues facing the state.
Rep. Adam Schiff is positioning himself as a defender of democracy, while Rep. Katie Porter is known for her anti-corruption crusade. Rep. Barbara Lee is a courageous progressive, Eric Early champions the “forgotten Americans,” and Steve Garvey is a commonsense consensus builder.
The candidates have differing views on important issues like border and immigration. The three Democrats share a similar track record on these issues, supporting bills to provide a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants and their children. They also criticize President Biden’s policies on asylum seekers. Lee, Schiff, and Porter all agree that a generic border wall is ineffective.
On crime and guns, the candidates have common ground in investing in mental health services and policing to address crime. However, there are nuanced differences, especially among Democrats. Schiff has a controversial track record on criminal justice issues, supporting tough-on-crime policies in the past.
When it comes to foreign policy and defense, the candidates have differing views on issues like the Gaza war ceasefire. Lee has been a consistent critic of the nation’s defense budget, while Schiff and Porter have supported various measures related to foreign policy.
In terms of the economy and labor, the candidates have differing views on inflation, corporate profits, and minimum wage. Democrats blame corporations for inflation, while Republicans blame government spending. The candidates also have differing views on union rights and unemployment benefits for striking workers.
On homelessness and housing, the candidates have differing views on the root causes of homelessness. Republicans blame mental health issues, while Democrats point to a lack of affordable housing. The Democrats support expanding Section 8 vouchers and providing wraparound services, while Republicans focus on mental health and addiction issues.
Overall, the race for California’s new U.S. senator is shaping up to be a competitive one, with each candidate offering unique perspectives on key issues facing the state. The upcoming debates will provide voters with more insight into where the candidates stand on these important issues.
