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California Republicans Boost Early Vote Share, Trump Warns Red Wave

5/18/2026

27 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Republicans captured 37 % of 905,889 California early votes, an 11 % rise since 2022, while Democrats held 41 %.
The primary lists candidates Xavier Becerra, Tom Steyer, Katie Porter, Matt Mahan, Antonio Villaraigosa, Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco.
U.S. President Donald Trump warned of a red wave in the 2026 California elections.

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Story summary

Republicans captured 37 % of 905,889 California early votes, an 11 % rise since 2022, while Democrats held 41 %.
The primary lists candidates Xavier Becerra, Tom Steyer, Katie Porter, Matt Mahan, Antonio Villaraigosa, Steve Hilton and Chad Bianco.
U.S. President Donald Trump warned of a red wave in the 2026 California elections.