The Merced Focus is your go-to source for all of the races happening in this year’s 2026 primary election.
In order to help our readers better familiarize themselves with the races, The Merced Focus conducted debates with several candidates competing in key races that are crucial to Merced County’s future.
Click on the links below to watch videos of the debates in their entirety, plus our coverage of the region’s top races, and stories from our partners.
This page will be updated regularly with election news, key deadlines and other information as the June 2 primary and Nov. 3 general election approach.
WATCH | Mike Murphy and Japjeet Singh Uppal talk High Speed Rail, immigration and more in 27th Assembly District debate
Murphy, a former Merced mayor, and Uppal, a Livingston councilmember, are vying for a key battleground district in the state Legislature. Assembly District 27 includes most of Merced County, along with parts of Madera and Fresno counties. Who will rise to the top on June 2?
WATCH | Daron McDaniel and Luis Lara debate who’s best suited to represent Merced County BOS District 3
It’s the first McDaniel has faced a challenger since taking office in 2015. District 3 includes Castle Commerce Center and the Atwater area of Merced County
WATCH | Alvarado-Gil, Duarte and Brandon in a bruising debate for CA Senate District 4
Get to know three candidates hoping to represent Senate District 4, which include north Merced County.
Merced County Superintendent of Schools candidates lean on experience in forum
The forum was open to school district employees and had three of the four candidates participate.
Silveira leans on record, Alejandre pushes for change at Merced County District 5 supervisor forum
Two-term incumbent Supervisor Scott Silveira faces business owner Miguel Alejandre for the seat, which covers a large part of Merced County’s Westside.
