Lincoln and Gray Face Off in Redrawn California District 13

Former Stockton Mayor Kevin Lincoln will challenge Democratic Representative Adam Gray in California’s 13th Congressional District on Nov. 3. The race pits two experienced politicians against each other for a seat that now includes downtown Stockton. Both candidates identify affordability as the primary issue, though they propose different solutions.

Gray holds a substantial financial advantage over his opponent. Federal Election Commission data from June 30 lists Gray with $4.2 million in contributions and loans. Lincoln’s total stands at $2.2 million. This disparity exists despite Lincoln’s strong local name recognition in Stockton. Gray, a former state assemblymember, won the original version of this district two years ago by a margin of 187 votes.

Lincoln, a former Marine, previously ran in the 9th District in 2024. He lost that contest to Representative Josh Harder. After Proposition 50 redrew state boundaries, Lincoln switched his focus to the 13th District. The new district map covers the agricultural core of the San Joaquin Valley and extends south along Interstate 5 to the Coalinga area.

President Donald Trump has offered his full support to Lincoln. The president posted on Truth Social in December that Lincoln received his “Complete and Total Endorsement.” Lincoln has promoted this endorsement on his campaign website. Democrats anticipate that high gas prices and recent immigration enforcement actions could weaken the appeal of candidates backed by the current administration.

Lincoln emphasizes his military service and local leadership. His campaign materials reference his role in the Marine Corps’ White House Military Office from 2001 to 2005. He stated at a September rally that he intends to lower costs for gas, food, and utilities. He also accused Gray of voting to raise taxes during his time in the California Legislature.

Gray positions himself as an independent voice rather than a standard Democrat. He serves as a whip for the Blue Dog Coalition. In an interview with the Sacramento Bee, he described Trump’s deportation policies as “irresponsible, reckless, dangerous.” Gray cites his work on Medicaid and tariffs as evidence of his legislative record.

The candidates continue to debate the cost of living. Lincoln argues that Gray increased the gas tax by more than 113 percent per gallon. Gray points to rising diesel prices following the start of the war with Iran. Voters in the district will decide the outcome in one week.