The race for California’s Assembly District 74 has emerged as a crucial contest in Orange County, where incumbent Republican Laurie Davies is facing a formidable challenge from Democrat Chris Duncan.

AD74, a district that includes coastal and suburban areas and straddles the border between San Diego and Orange County, has become increasingly competitive in recent election cycles, reflecting the broader political shifts in the region.

Davies was first elected 4 years ago and is running for re-election in a district where No Party Preference voters (NPPs), who account for 22% of registered voters in the district, are expected to play a pivotal role.

While Davies easily won the primary, Duncan has mounted a strong campaign, particularly among younger voters and those in suburban communities.

“The 74th Assembly District is a swing district with practically even numbers of registered Republicans and Democrats. The general election there is expected to be very closely watched and very competitive,” KPBS recently reported.

Laurie Davies: A Message of Public Safety and Prosperity

Davies has centered her campaign on economic growth, public safety, and fiscal responsibility. In the Assembly, Davies has focused on legislation aimed at reducing taxes, supporting small businesses, and promoting public safety.

Davies’ campaign has garnered support from business groups, law enforcement organizations, and conservative advocacy groups.

“Our district needs a representative who will stand up for fiscal responsibility, support our local businesses, and ensure the safety of our communities,” Davies said at a recent town hall meeting.

On public safety, Davies has emphasized her support for law enforcement and has opposed efforts to defund the police. She argues that a strong focus on law and order is essential for maintaining the safety and prosperity of the district.

“Assemblymember Davies has been a trusted friend of the law enforcement community here in Orange County…doing what needs to be done to keep her constituents safe,” Tom Dominguez, President of the Association of Orange County Deputy Sheriffs, says of Davies on the homepage of her campaign website.

Chris Duncan: A Message of Balancing Progressivism with Pragmatism

Democrat Duncan is a former federal prosecutor working for US Customs and Border Protection. He is a member of San Clemente City Council and was a one-time appointed mayor.

He brings a focus on progressive and pragmatic values, emphasizing his support of the middle class, along with healthcare, education, and environmental protection. Duncan’s campaign has drawn support from labor unions, environmental organizations, and progressive advocacy groups. 

“We need to put the focus back on the middle-class. Growing the economy from the middle out, not top down. Ensuring all our kids grow up safe with real opportunity. As a prosecutor, I fought the political corruption that robs people of progress. As Mayor of San Clemente, I’ve kept costs and crime down. In the Assembly, I’ll fight to put middle-class priorities first,” Duncan says on his campaign website. 

On public safety, Duncan has advocated for a balanced approach that includes both strong law enforcement and community-based initiatives. He has also called for criminal justice reform aimed at addressing systemic inequalities and ensuring equitable treatment for all residents.

What’s at Stake?

The AD74 race is critical for both parties as they seek to secure control of key legislative seats in Orange County.

For Republicans, retaining this seat is essential for maintaining their influence in a region that has become increasingly competitive. For Democrats, winning AD74 would represent a significant gain in their efforts to expand their presence in the county.

As the general election approaches, both Davies and Duncan are expected to ramp up their efforts to appeal to undecided voters, particularly those who identify as independent or NPPs.