Lisa Middleton Readies For November Face-Off Against Sen. Ochoa Bogh

PALM SPRINGS, CA — Palm Springs City Councilmember Lisa Middleton claimed victory Wednesday morning in her race for the state Senate District 19 seat, after garnering more votes in Riverside County than her only opponent, Republican state Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh.

“As we continue to await the final vote count, I am genuinely humbled and honored to be advancing into the November General Election. The incredible support from the voters of the 19th Senate District is a testament to the strength of our democratic process and voters’ desire for a new, pragmatic approach to governance, and for that, I extend my heartfelt gratitude," Middleton said. "As we celebrate the results, we must acknowledge the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. In the coming months, we will work tirelessly to achieve a historic victory this November and bring bold, pragmatic leadership to Riverside and San Bernardino Counties."

As of late Wednesday morning, Middleton was leading Ochoa Bogh by 13 percentage points in Riverside County. In San Bernardino County, the situation was the opposite: Middleton was trailing Ochoa Bogh by about 23 percentage points.

It's no surprise, however, that Middleton is advancing to a November runoff. The top two vote-getters in Tuesday's primary election, regardless of party affiliation, face off on Nov. 5. Middleton, a Democrat, and Ochoa Bogh were the only two candidates in the state Senate District 19 primary race.

Since being tapped by voters in November 2020, Ochoa Bogh has represented the state's 23rd Senate District. However, due to redistricting, her district lines shifted for the 2024 elections.

Middleton aims to flip the newly drawn district, which includes a big chunk of the Inland Empire, including the San Gorgonio Pass Area cities of Banning and Beaumont and much of the Coachella Valley. In her campaign messages, she prioritizes public safety, transportation infrastructure, and the rising cost of living in California.

"Thank you for your support, and I look forward to the hard work ahead and achieving a historic victory for our district alongside you all in the General Election," Middleton said.

Ochoa Bogh had not released any statements Wednesday morning to her online communications platforms.