James Gallagher, Audrey Denney Enter Congressional Race Now

UPDATE: In a crucial political development, James Gallagher and Audrey Denney have officially entered the race for Congressional District 1 this week. This comes just ahead of the deadline for candidates to submit their paperwork to local elections offices, which was March 6, 2026, in Oroville, California.

Following the death of Doug LaMalfa, California’s Governor Gavin Newsom has called for a special election to fill the vacant seat. Voters will face two separate primaries on June 2, 2026: one for the remainder of LaMalfa’s term and another for a new two-year term starting in 2027.

Denney, who took her oath on Thursday, emphasized her campaign’s mission, stating, “This campaign is about something bigger than one race. It’s about showing that regular people — not corporations or political insiders — still have the power to shape our democracy.” Her heartfelt message resonates with voters eager for change, positioning her as a strong contender.

On the same day, Gallagher expressed confidence in his chances. Speaking at the Butte County Elections Office, he stressed the importance of securing over 50% of the vote to ensure immediate representation in Washington, D.C. “We have a lot of strength and a lot of support,” Gallagher declared, outlining his vision to disrupt the status quo and advocate for northern California citizens.

As candidates prepare for the upcoming elections, each must meticulously track and report their donations, with pre-election statements due by April 11. This transparency is critical in a race where financial backing could sway voter opinions.

If no candidate achieves the majority in the special election, a general election will be held in August. The stakes are high as constituents are eager for representation following LaMalfa’s passing, making this race particularly significant for the district.

Gallagher and Denney will face competition from former State Senator Mike McGuire, making the race even more dynamic. With the election date fast approaching, candidates are ramping up their campaigns to engage voters and drive support.

This race will not only shape the immediate future of Congressional District 1 but also set the tone for political engagement in California as voters seek leadership that reflects their needs and aspirations. As developments unfold, the urgency for candidates to connect with their constituents has never been greater. Stay tuned for updates as this story progresses.