NASA Veteran George Whitesides Flips Key LA Congressional Seat in Major Win for Democrats

George Whitesides, a former NASA chief of staff and political newcomer, has won the race to represent northern Los Angeles County in Congress, defeating incumbent Republican Rep. Mike Garcia. This victory marks a significant shift in California's 27th Congressional District, which had been one of the most competitive races in the 2024 election. Whitesides secured 51.2% of the vote, flipping a seat that had been held by Republicans. Garcia, the last GOP congressman in the heavily Democratic region, conceded and thanked his supporters. Whitesides' win is seen as a major boost for Democrats in the state.