Hadwick and James Will Compete in November Assembly Race
The candidates will face off in the general election for California’s 1st Assembly District seat this November.
Updated on Sept. 26, 2026 in Elections
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Republican incumbent Heather Hadwick and Democratic challenger Dianna James will compete in the November 2026 general election for California's 1st Assembly District. The race follows primary results where Hadwick secured 50.4% of the vote compared to 36.6% for James.
Why it matters
The candidates are seeking to represent approximately 500,000 residents across an expansive 27,276-square-mile district that has not been held by a Democrat since 2012. The election serves as a pivotal moment for the rural counties comprising the region.
The 1st Assembly District covers 11 counties and represents 500,000 residents across a massive 27,276-square-mile area. In the 2024 election cycle, Hadwick secured the seat with nearly 60% of the vote.
The players
Heather Hadwick
She is the Republican incumbent assembly member for the 1st District.
Dianna James
She is the Democratic challenger running for the 1st Assembly District seat.
The details
Candidates in the race have centered their platforms on addressing affordability, rural infrastructure needs, and regional concerns. Hadwick is the Republican incumbent who previously authored six bills that were signed into law.
Timeline
2012 was the last time a Democrat held the 1st Assembly District seat.
Heather Hadwick was elected to the assembly seat in 2024.
The general election for the 1st Assembly District will occur in November 2026.
Political Context
Opposition from Democratic groups centers on efforts to flip a district that has remained under Republican control for over a decade. Critics of the incumbent argue for a change in leadership to better address the unique economic pressures facing the 11 counties within the district.
The outcome of this election will directly impact policy decisions regarding infrastructure funding and rural affordability programs for residents across the 11 counties in the district. Voters will determine which candidate's platform will shape local governance for the next term.
The takeaway
Voters across the 11-county district will weigh the record of the incumbent against the proposed changes offered by the challenger this November. Residents should review candidate platforms to understand how each approach to rural development will affect their community.
Further reading
For more information on upcoming races, visit California Elections.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Sacramento Bee.
Live Poll
In your area, should government prioritize small business deregulation over new infrastructure investment?
