Goldsmith and Erickson Will Seek Senate Seat

Candidates will compete for the 24th State Senate District in the upcoming California election.

Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in Elections

Goldsmith and Erickson Will Seek Senate Seat

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Lawyer and former journalist Brian Goldsmith and John Erickson are candidates for the 24th State Senate District seat in the 2026 election. The election cycle is set to conclude on November 3, 2026.

Why it matters

The race for the 24th District seat, centered in Santa Monica, will test the efficacy of California's top-two primary system. High-profile endorsements, including Nancy Pelosi supporting Goldsmith, add significance to this legislative contest.

Candidates are vying for a position in the 24th California State Senate District. The outcome remains uncertain until the final vote tally on November 3, 2026.

The players

Brian Goldsmith

Brian Goldsmith is a lawyer and former journalist who is seeking election to the 24th State Senate District.

John Erickson

John Erickson is a candidate campaigning for the 24th State Senate District seat.

Nancy Pelosi

Nancy Pelosi is a prominent political figure and former Speaker of the House who has publicly endorsed Brian Goldsmith.

The details

The election for the 24th Senate District will be conducted under California's top-two primary rules, where candidates from any party run on the same ballot. The district is centered in the city of Santa Monica, a critical hub for the upcoming legislative race.

The State Senate election cycle will conclude on November 3, 2026.

Political Context

Critics of California's top-two primary system often argue that it can diminish party influence, while supporters claim it encourages moderate candidates. This race serves as a case study for how high-profile endorsements influence voter behavior in the state's non-partisan primary model.

Residents of the 24th District will see their local representation determined by the outcome of this 2026 legislative race. Voters should review candidate platforms to understand the potential regulatory and funding changes that could impact the Santa Monica area.

The takeaway

Voters should track candidate endorsements and public debates leading up to the November 3, 2026, election date. Engaging with local candidate forums is a practical step to better understand how each representative might advocate for district-specific interests.