Holstege concedes in California’s 47th Assembly District race

Palm Springs City Councilmember Christy Holstege conceded the race for California’s 47th Assembly District Tuesday. The concession marks her second unsuccessful attempt to secure the seat, following a narrow loss by just 85 votes in 2022.

In a statement released after the concession, Holstege expressed gratitude to her supporters and remained optimistic about the district’s future.

“This campaign showed what was possible: that a Democrat could compete in a district once considered unwinnable,” she said.

The latest reports from elections officials show incumbent Assemblymember Greg Wallis holding a lead of nearly 5,000 votes, a significantly wider margin than the previous election.

Holstege’s campaign was part of a broader Democratic effort in the region, which she described as “historic.”

“Alongside the incredible Democratic campaigns in the region – Will Rollins for Congress and Lisa Middleton for State Senate – we made historic gains, proving that when we organize, engage, and inspire– change isn’t just possible, it’s inevitable,” Holstege stated.

Middleton conceded in her race against incumbent Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh for the State Senate seat in the 19th District earlier this month, saying, “I will continue to work with all who are committed to freedom, fairness, and opportunity for all.” 

The campaign’s efforts were substantial, with Holstege reporting that her team knocked on over 300,000 doors with the help of hundreds of local volunteers. The campaign also established offices in Beaumont and Cathedral City, employing a field team of 20 individuals from across the region.

“We fought an uphill battle against an incumbent backed by millions of dollars in outside spending– and still came within striking distance of winning,” she said. The campaign raised close to $3.8 million in its bid to unseat one of the top-funded Republicans in the California State Legislature.

The 47th Assembly District, which has not been represented by a Democrat in over 25 years, was considered a key battleground in California politics.

Holstege, an attorney who also served as mayor of the city for a year, did not say what her future holds. Both she and Middleton will vacate their council seats in December.

Holstege will be replaced by Naomi Soto in District 4. Middleton is being replaced by David Ready, a former city manager, in District 5.

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