Rival candidates were closely matched Tuesday in a string of hotly contested U.S. House districts in California, where the outcome could be crucial in determining which party controls the chamber next year.

Democratic Rep. Mike Levin had a solid edge over challenger Republican Matt Gunderson in the closely watched race for California’s 49th Congressional District, early results show Tuesday night. “We are confident that when all is said and done we will prevail,

Rep. Mike Levin, D-San Juan Capistrano, appeared poised to retain his 49th Congressional District seat, holding a significant lead Tuesday evening over Republican challenger and car dealership owner Matt Gunderson.

The perennially purple 49th District is closely divided when it comes to registration – roughly a third Democratic, a third Republican and a third Independent. In early 2023, the GOP announced it would target the district as one of just a few dozen prime pick-up opportunities nationwide.