I’ll help you create a blog post about the 16th Congressional District in California. I’ll use the WebSearch tool to gather some current information to ensure accuracy. Based on the search results, I’ll craft a blog post about California’s 16th Congressional District:
California’s 16th Congressional District represents a dynamic and politically significant region in the heart of Silicon Valley, stretching from the coastal communities of Half Moon Bay and Pacifica to the vibrant urban centers of San Jose, Palo Alto, and Mountain View. As of 2026, this district stands out as one of the most politically engaged and economically influential congressional districts in the United States.
District Demographics and Characteristics
The 16th Congressional District is a unique blend of coastal and urban landscapes, with a population of approximately 751,938 residents. The district boasts an impressive demographic composition:
- 43.5% White
- 29.4% Asian
- 19.1% Hispanic
- 5.2% Two or more races
- 1.9% Black
- 1.0% Other
Notably, this district is recognized as the wealthiest congressional district in California, with a median household income of $181,659. The area's economic strength is deeply rooted in the technology and innovation ecosystem of Silicon Valley.
Political Landscape
The district has a strong Democratic lean, with a Cook Partisan Voter Index of D+26. This means the district consistently votes approximately 26 percentage points more Democratic than the national average. In recent presidential elections, the district has shown overwhelming support for Democratic candidates, with 72.3% voting for Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election.
Current Representative
Sam Liccardo currently represents the 16th Congressional District, having assumed office on January 3, 2025. A prominent Democratic politician, Liccardo has been actively involved in key policy areas, including:
- Housing policy
- Technology and AI innovation
- Immigration reform
Upcoming 2026 Election
The 2026 congressional election for this district is scheduled with the following key dates:
- Filing Deadline: March 6, 2026
- Primary Election: June 2, 2026
- General Election: November 3, 2026
As of February 2026, the primary candidates include:
| Candidate | Party |
|---|---|
| Sam Liccardo | Democratic |
| Kevin Johnson | Republican |
| Jotham Stein | No Party Preference |
Recent Political Developments
In a significant move, California underwent a mid-decade redistricting effort in 2025. On November 5, 2025, voters approved Proposition 50, which allowed for congressional district boundary adjustments. The proposition passed with a 65%-35% vote, potentially making five districts more favorable to Democrats.
What cities are included in the 16th Congressional District?
+The district includes Pacifica, Half Moon Bay, Atherton, Palo Alto, Saratoga, Campbell, Woodside, Los Gatos, and parts of San Jose.
How Democratic is the 16th Congressional District?
+The district has a Cook Partisan Voter Index of D+26, making it the 27th most Democratic district nationally. In recent presidential elections, Democratic candidates have consistently won over 70% of the vote.
Who is the current representative of the 16th Congressional District?
+Sam Liccardo is the current representative, having assumed office on January 3, 2025. He is a Democrat from San Jose.