State Senate, District 7

Why does this race matter? 

The winner of this hotly contested race will replace termed-out state Sen. Nancy Skinner, whose progressive record on criminal justice and the environment made her a local favorite in this progressive East Bay district, which includes the cities of Oakland, Berkeley and Richmond (formerly District 9). Housing development, public safety and climate change are key issues for local voters.

What does a state senator do?

State senators represent communities at the California Legislature in Sacramento. The 40 members of the state Senate write and vote on state bills, serve on policy committees and vote on the annual state budget. The top two finishers in this primary election, regardless of party, will face off in the November election. The winner will serve a four-year term.

Candidates

For Arreguín

• Gavin Newsom, governor, California
• Nancy Skinner, state senator 
• California Democratic Party
• California State Council of Laborers
• Sierra Club

For Beckles

• California Conference Board Amalgamated Transit Union
• California Labor Federation
• California Progressive Alliance
• California Teachers Association
• East Bay Democratic Socialists of America

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