The race for California’s Senate District 37 pits incumbent Democrat Josh Newman against Republican Steven Choi in a contest that is drawing considerable attention from both parties.

SD37, which includes key parts of Orange County, has emerged as a battleground district, reflecting broader shifts in California’s political landscape. 

Communities in this district have shared interests and concerns related to open space, affordable housing, an aging population, and traffic.

But, as with many regions in California, public safety has become a hot button issue. 

Newman, having bucked his own party to support Proposition 36, faces a formidable challenge from Choi, an educator and well-known Republican with strong local ties. 

While Newman performed well in the primary, the general election is expected to be close, with both candidates vying for the support of the district’s large and growing number of independent or NPP voters.

Registered voters in the district break down as follows: 37% Democratic, 34% Republican, and 24% NPPs.

Josh Newman: Law Enforcement Backs the Incumbent

A Yale graduate and Army veteran, Newman’s background is in public service and veterans’ advocacy. He has made education, homelessness, reproductive rights, and reducing gun violence and increasing economic activity the central themes of his campaign.

Newman was first elected to California's 29th Senate District in 2016 after he defeated then Republican Assemblymember Ling Ling Chang. Redistricting in 2021 moved him into SD37.

His tenure in the Senate has been marked by efforts to expand mental health care and supportive housing, improve public schools, and tackle climate change.

“I’ve lived my life by a few really simple rules: do the work, tell the truth, stand up for what you believe in, and do the right thing. As your State Senator, I’ve done my best to adhere to these principles and work proactively to deliver results for the Orange County communities that I represent,” Newman says on his campaign website.

Newman’s campaign has drawn support from a wide range of groups, including labor unions, environmental organizations, and other advocacy groups.

But with public safety as a hot button issue in California, his endorsements from several law enforcement agencies -- including the California Police Chiefs, the California Statewide Law Enforcement Association, and the Long Beach Police Officers Association -- could be a big factor in the race.

Steven Choi: Republicans Back the Former Assemblymember

Former Assemblymember Steven Choi has centered his campaign on conservative values, focusing on economic growth, public safety, and education reform.

Choi’s political career in Orange County has earned him a solid base of support among conservatives, but he faces the challenge of appealing to a broader electorate in this swing district.

He came in second in SD37's nonpartisan Top 2 primary, beating out 3 other Republicans and 6 Democrats to go up against Newman in the November general election.

Choi has emphasized the need to reduce taxes and government regulations, arguing that these measures are essential for economic growth and job creation.

“Our community needs a leader who understands the importance of fiscal responsibility and supporting our local businesses,” Choi stated at a recent campaign rally.

Public safety is a cornerstone of Choi’s platform. He has called for stronger support for law enforcement and has criticized efforts to defund the police, positioning himself as a defender of traditional law-and-order policies.

Although he has racked up several endorsements from Orange County public officials, he has not drawn much organizational support.

What’s at Stake?

The outcome of the SD37 race will have significant implications for the balance of power in the California State Senate.

For Democrats, retaining this seat is crucial for maintaining their majority in the Senate. For Republicans, winning this seat would represent a key victory in their efforts to regain influence in a region that has become increasingly competitive.

As the election approaches, both Newman and Choi are expected to intensify their efforts to appeal to undecided voters, particularly those who identify as independent.

With SD37 emerging as a political bellwether, this race is likely to be one of the most closely watched contests in the state.