By Henri Migala

Photo, top row: Democratic representatives Adam Schiff, Katie Porter and Barbara  Lee; bottom row: Republicans Steve Garvey, ex-baseball player, and attorney Eric Early

February 5, 2024 (San Diego) -- California’s U.S. Senate race is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched and pivotal contests in the upcoming election cycle, capturing the nation's attention as a dynamic lineup of contenders from different backgrounds and political ideologies vie for the coveted seat.

With the death of long-serving Senator Dianne Feinstein, a seat that has been held by Democrats for decades is now up for grabs. Governor Gavin Newsom appointed Laphonza Butler to fill out the rest of Feinstein’s term ending in January 2025.The top-two primary winners will run in the November general election for the six-year term beginning on January 3, 2025. Also on the primary ballot is a special top-two primary for the remainder of Feinstein's current term,so be sure to vote in both.

Butler is not seeking election. But 22 others are on the March 5 primary ballot vying for the Senate seat, including five well-known names—three Democratic members of Congress and two prominent Republicans, an attorney/businessman and a former baseball player.

.East County Magazine takes a closer look at the top five major contenders vying for this influential position to represent the golden state in the U.S. Senate.