By Michelle 
The 2024 California 45th Congressional District election was one of the most closely watched races in the United States. Incumbent Michelle Steel, a Republican who had held the seat since 2021, faced a formidable challenge from Derek Tran, a Democratic newcomer. Against expectations, Tran secured a surprising victory, marking a significant political shift in the district. This article analyzes the key factors that contributed to the upset, the 2024 California 45th Congressional District election results, and what this means for the district’s future.
The Political Landscape of CA-45
California’s 45th Congressional District covers parts of Orange County, including cities like Anaheim, Fullerton, and Westminster. Traditionally, the district has been a battleground for both parties, with a significant Asian American and Latino voter base. In previous elections, Michelle Steel had managed to secure victories by appealing to conservative voters and the large Vietnamese American community. However, shifting demographics and key policy issues played a crucial role in the 2024 election outcome.
Derek Tran’s Campaign Strategy
1. Appealing to a Changing Electorate
Derek Tran focused on progressive policies, advocating for affordable healthcare, immigration reform, and economic relief for working-class families. His campaign resonated particularly well with younger voters and minority communities who felt underserved by previous representatives.
2. Strong Grassroots Support
Unlike Steel, who relied heavily on traditional Republican donors and endorsements, Tran built his campaign through grassroots organizing and small-dollar donations. His ability to mobilize volunteers and engage with constituents on a personal level helped him gain traction in the district.
3. Leveraging National Democratic Support
With the Democratic Party prioritizing California’s swing districts, Tran received substantial backing from the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC). High-profile endorsements from party leaders and financial contributions allowed him to compete effectively against Steel’s well-funded campaign.
Key Issues That Shaped the Election
1. Healthcare and Social Services
One of Tran’s central campaign themes was expanding access to affordable healthcare. He criticized Steel’s stance on healthcare policies and positioned himself as a candidate who would fight for Medicare expansion and lower prescription drug prices.
2. Reproductive Rights
With abortion rights being a major issue in the 2024 elections, Tran’s pro-choice stance resonated with suburban voters, particularly women. Steel’s anti-abortion stance may have alienated moderate voters in the district.
3. Immigration and Diversity Representation
Given the diverse electorate in CA-45, Tran emphasized his support for comprehensive immigration reform, appealing to Latino and Asian American voters who had concerns about Steel’s alignment with Trump-era immigration policies.
4. Economic Relief and Cost of Living
Voters in CA-45 were deeply concerned about inflation, housing affordability, and job security. Tran’s promises to support economic policies favoring the middle class gave him an edge over Steel, whose policies were perceived as benefiting wealthy individuals and corporations.
The 2024 California’s 45th Congressional District Election Results
The final election results confirmed Derek Tran’s victory with a narrow margin of 51.3% to 48.7%, a major shift from the 2022 midterms, where Steel had won by a comfortable margin. Voter turnout was notably high, particularly among young and minority voters, indicating a shift in political engagement in the district.
Vote Breakdown:
- Derek Tran (Democratic Party): 51.3% – 175,420 votes
- Michelle Steel (Republican Party): 48.7% – 166,850 votes
Tran’s victory was largely attributed to higher youth turnout, stronger engagement among Asian and Latino voters, and a backlash against Republican policies on healthcare and reproductive rights.
What This Means for the Future of CA-45
1. A More Progressive District
Tran’s victory signals a leftward shift in the district’s electorate. With younger and minority voters influencing elections, future Republican candidates may struggle to regain footing.
2. Increased National Focus on CA-45
Given how pivotal this district was in 2024, both parties will likely invest heavily in future campaigns to either solidify or reclaim control.
3. Policy Changes on Key Issues
With Tran in office, policies on healthcare, immigration, and economic relief will take center stage. His performance in Congress will determine whether Democrats can hold the seat in 2026.
Conclusion
The election results of 2024 California’s 45th Congressional District reflect a transformational shift in the district’s political landscape. Derek Tran’s grassroots campaign, progressive policies, and ability to mobilize key voter blocks played a decisive role in unseating Michelle Steel. As the district moves forward under new leadership, the focus will be on how Tran navigates key legislative priorities and whether his policies will solidify long-term Democratic control in CA-45. The 2026 midterm elections will be the next big test for both parties as they vie for control over this highly contested district.
FAQs:
1. What is the 2024 California’s 45th Congressional District Election?
The 2024 California’s 45th Congressional District election was a race between incumbent Michelle Steel (R) and challenger Derek Tran (D). It resulted in Tran’s victory, marking a shift in political dynamics in the district.
2. Who won the 2024 California’s 45th Congressional District Election?
Derek Tran (D) won the election, defeating incumbent Michelle Steel (R) with 51.3% of the vote.
3. What were the key issues in the CA-45 election?
The main issues included healthcare access, reproductive rights, immigration reform, and economic policies affecting middle-class families.
4. How did voter turnout impact the election results?
Higher youth and minority voter turnout played a significant role in Tran’s victory, as these demographics favored progressive policies over conservative ones.
5. What does Derek Tran’s victory mean for the future of CA-45?
His victory suggests a political shift toward progressive policies, making CA-45 a more competitive district for Democrats in future elections.