Meet the candidates for the 24th Congressional District

Four candidates are vying in the June 2 primary election to represent California’s 24th Congressional District, which includes Santa Barbara County, parts of San Luis Obispo County, and sections of Ventura County. The district’s approximately 750,000 residents will decide between incumbent Democrat Salud Carbajal, Democrat Sarah Bacon (a UC Santa Barbara Graduate Student Association vice president), Peace and Freedom Party’s Helena Pasquarella (a 2024 primary loser), and Republican Bob Smith (a systems engineer). Carbajal, serving since 2017, prioritizes experience, while Bacon emphasizes anti-corruption reforms, including ending Citizens United, banning congressional stock trading, and implementing public election financing. Bacon argues concentrated power undermines democracy and vows to push bipartisan policies like cracking down on grocery price-fixing and lowering prescription drug costs. She claims these measures enjoy broad public support but are blocked by corporate influence. Pasquarella, an educator and caregiver, ran unsuccessfully in 2024 and now seeks a second chance under the Peace and Freedom Party. Smith, the sole Republican, brings a systems engineering background but lacks prior elected experience. The top two vote-getters, regardless of party, will face off in the November 3 general election. Bacon’s campaign highlights her refusal to accept corporate money, framing it as a necessity to advance policies like affordable childcare and paid time off. Carbajal’s tenure includes service on the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors before his 2017 House election. The race reflects broader tensions over political reform, economic relief, and party representation in a district with diverse interests.