"California Senate Race: Democrats Face Upset as Republican Steve Garvey Gains Ground"

California's Senate race, initially expected to be a three-way Democratic contest, is now seeing the potential rise of Republican Steve Garvey due to a record-low voter turnout, which could jeopardize the congressional careers of prominent progressives like Reps. Barbara Lee and Katie Porter. The slow return of mail-in ballots has favored older, white, conservative-leaning homeowners, potentially benefiting Garvey. The top two finishers in the March 5 contest, regardless of party, will advance to the general election in November. Despite the Democratic candidates splintering votes on the left, Rep. Adam Schiff has had the fundraising and polling edge. The race was once anticipated as a showcase of Democratic rivalries on the party’s left wing, but the dynamics have shifted with the possibility of a Republican contender.