GOP Gains U.S. House Seat as Mike Garcia Wins California Special Election

Republican Mike Garcia has won the special election in California's 25th congressional district. His opponent, Democrat Christy Smith conceded Wednesday afternoon, citing Garcia's lead in the vote counted thus far.

The current vote tally:

Garcia's victory is welcome news for California Republicans after the party lost seven congressional seats (including this one) in the 2018 midterms.  Once seated, Garcia will complete the term of former Rep. Katie Hill, who resigned last fall. Smith and Garcia will face off again on November 3, this time vying for a full two-year term in the 117th congress.