For years candidates have come to California after the nominees were a foregone conclusion. This year the primary is set to make a maximum impact on the races. The race to determine Democratic incumbent Diane Feinstein's opponent has been the quietest major statewide campaign in years. Leading GOP candidates find it difficult to raise the kind of money needed to buy the television and radio time crucial to getting their names known. This year incumbents are being challenged by a myriad of new contenders.
Education is a big issue on the candidates' minds.
Incumbent Sam Farr in District 17 faces a crowded field of three possible contenders. Two untested Democrats vie for chance to unseat incumbent Bruce McPherson in District 15. In the 23rd Assembly District, six candidates vie for San Jose democrat Mike Honda's office. Six compete to replace Republican Jim Cunneen in District 24 and another six compete for Republican Peter Frusetta's seat in District 28. Don't worry they're all on the ballot in the array of propositions.