Assembly District 36: Gonzalez, Obeso-Martinez face off in competitive race

INDIO, Calif. (KESQ) - With Election Day approaching, the race for California's 36th Assembly District is drawing significant attention and millions of dollars in campaign spending.

Republican incumbent Jeff Gonzalez is seeking a second term in Sacramento, while Democratic challenger Ida Obeso-Martinez is hoping to flip the seat back to Democratic control.

The district stretches across parts of Riverside and San Bernardino counties and all of Imperial County, including communities in the Coachella and Imperial valleys. The district is predominantly Hispanic or Latino and has a Democratic voter registration advantage.

Millions of dollars have poured into the election through campaign contributions and outside spending as both parties fight for control of the seat.

Gonzalez, a retired Marine Corps combat veteran, former pastor and small business owner, was first elected to the Assembly in 2024.

Obeso-Martinez, a nurse practitioner and Imperial City Councilmember who has also served as mayor, is challenging him for the seat.

News Channel 3 spoke in depth with both candidates about their priorities, the challenges facing the district and why they believe they're the right choice for voters.

Voters will decide who represents Assembly District 36 in Sacramento on November 3.

Stay with News Channel 3 for more.