Former San José mayor wins California House seat, dealing blow to Newsom

Former San José Mayor Sam Liccardo is projected to win California’s 16th Congressional District against fellow Democrat Evan Low, according to Decision Desk HQ.

Liccardo’s victory is notable given that Low, a state assemblymember, enjoyed the backing of the state Democratic Party, Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) and other prominent California Democrats.

Liccardo, meanwhile, received endorsements from California Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas (D), California House members like Reps. Robert Garcia (D) and Mike Levin (D) and other groups.

The district is located just south of San Francisco and includes portions of Silicon Valley. Rep. Anna Eshoo (D-Calif.) announced last year she would be retiring from her seat.