California State Legislature

State Senate, 38th District


District Analysis
District map

The 38th Senate District, traversing from Orange County into San Diego County, is a unique assembly of communities that showcases the quintessential Southern California blend of coastal allure, suburban living, and significant military influence. This district, characterized by its scenic coastal cities and inland suburban communities, presents a vivid tapestry of Southern Californian lifestyle and culture.

Beginning in Orange County, Laguna Hills and Mission Viejo represent the essence of suburban Southern California, with their planned communities, outdoor recreation, and family-focused living. These cities set the stage for a district that values both natural beauty and carefully designed urban spaces.

Adjacent to these are Rancho Santa Margarita and San Juan Capistrano, further contributing to the district's suburban texture. San Juan Capistrano, with its historic mission and cultural heritage, adds a unique historical dimension to the district.

Moving southward into San Diego County, Vista serves as a gateway to the more coastal aspects of the district. Here, the suburban character is blended with cultural diversity, illustrating the varied demographics of the region.

Oceanside, a coastal city with a strong military presence due to Camp Pendleton, represents a significant aspect of the district. The base not only influences the local economy but also shapes the community's character, emphasizing the district's connection to military life.

Carlsbad, known for its picturesque beaches and attractions like LEGOLAND, exemplifies the blend of tourism, business, and residential life that characterizes many coastal cities in the district.

Encinitas, with its surf culture and relaxed lifestyle, epitomizes the laid-back coastal vibe of Southern California. This city's blend of historic and contemporary elements adds depth to the district's cultural landscape.

Solana Beach, a small coastal city, contributes a rich arts and cultural scene, notably through the Cedros Design District and its music venues, enhancing the district's cultural diversity.

Del Mar, famous for its racetrack and beautiful beaches, brings an element of luxury and leisure to the district, highlighting the upscale aspect of coastal living in Southern California.

The 38th Senate District contains a region that seamlessly integrates the diverse elements of coastal charm, suburban comfort, historical richness, and military significance. The district stands out for its ability to offer a comprehensive Southern Californian experience, from the planned communities of Orange County to the vibrant coastal cities of San Diego County.

602,673 Registered Voters as of 01/10/23 D +6.24%
DEM %
38
227,348 Voters
REP %
31
189,765 Voters
OTHER %
31
185,560 Voters
District Historical Candidate Performance
Election DEM REP Margin
2022 Gubernatorial Newsom - 52.61% Dahle - 47.39% D +5.2%
2020 Presidential Biden - 57.0% Trump - 40.7% D +16.30%
2018 Gubernatorial Newsom - 52.6% Cox - 47.4% D +5.20%
2016 Presidential Clinton - 52.1% Trump - 41.8% D +10.30%
2020 Census Data
Total Population Total White Hispanic Black Asian Native Pacific
973,433 57.7% 24.3% 3.5% 12.8% 2.6% 1.0%

2022 General Election Results (November 8, 2022)
Name Votes Vote % Vote Share
Catherine Blakespear (D) 190,992 52.24%
Matt Gunderson (R) 174,581 47.76%
2022 Primary Election Results (June 7, 2022)
Name Votes Vote % Vote Share
Matt Gunderson (R) 106,358 45.87%
Catherine Blakespear (D) 99,583 42.95%
Joe Kerr (D) 25,908 11.17%
2018 General Election Results (November 6, 2018)
Name Votes Vote % Vote Share
Brian Jones (R) 187,345 53.01%
Jeff Griffith (D) 166,092 46.99%
2018 Primary Election Results (June 5, 2018)
Name Votes Vote % Vote Share
Brian Jones (R) 114,270 57.22%
Jeff Griffith (D) 79,862 39.99%
Antonio Salguero (LIB) 5,576 2.79%