Candidates Make Their Case in Competitive 48th Congressional District Race

NBC Palm Springs’ Decision 2026 coverage continues as candidates competing for California’s newly redrawn 48th Congressional District make their case to voters ahead of the June primary election.

The district, which now stretches from northern San Diego County into parts of Riverside County including Palm Springs, Indian Wells, Hemet and Temecula, is expected to be one of the most competitive congressional races in the country and could play a key role in determining control of Congress.

Republican candidate Jim Desmond has emerged as a leading GOP contender after receiving endorsements from former Congressman Darrell Issa and President Donald Trump. Desmond says affordability, housing and infrastructure remain top concerns for voters across the district. He also highlighted his experience as an airline pilot, engineer and elected official.

On the Democratic side, multiple candidates are competing for a spot in November’s top-two runoff election.

Amar Campa-Najjar, a former Labor Department official and Navy reservist, says his campaign is centered on affordability and working-class issues, while emphasizing his goal of helping Democrats regain control of the House.

Palm Springs entrepreneur Brandon Riker says economic concerns are dominating conversations with voters. Riker is campaigning on proposals focused on lowering costs, increasing economic opportunity and addressing local desert issues including veterans services and infrastructure.

Meanwhile, Marni von Wilpert says she entered the race because of concerns surrounding health care, voting rights and equality. Von Wilpert points to her experience as a civil rights attorney, labor lawyer and former Obama administration official as key qualifications.

With national attention and campaign spending already pouring into the race, political analysts expect California’s 48th Congressional District contest to remain one of the most closely watched races heading into November.