California Republican Party To Target Democrat Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez (CA-47)

Citing the ideal combination of a strong challenger, positive public opinion trends, and a vulnerable incumbent, California Republican Party Chairman Ron Nehring today announced the state Republican Party will target the state 47th Congressional District as a Republican pickup in the 2010 midterm elections.

“The possibility of Assemblyman Van Tran as the Republican nominee, combined with the composition of this district and an incumbent who has never been a good fit for the district, makes the 47th district and incumbent Loretta Sanchez one of our top Congressional targets for this cycle,” said Chairman Nehring.

“California Republicans have shown time and again that we can overcome registration disadvantages with a credible, well-known candidate and strong campaign. This district now has those qualities,” added Nehring, who noted that the state party would not take sides in a possible Republican primary but preparations would be underway in anticipation of a highly competitive general election contest.

Adding to Republican opportunity in this district is the fact that it is located in Orange County, which has among the most robust Republican committees in the country. “We have an excellent opportunity for synergy here between everyone who wants to see a change in this district, while Republicans benefit from an improving electoral climate that is turning increasingly hostile to congressional democrats.”

History shows the district to be competitive. While Barack Obama won in the 47th in 2008, Governor Schwarzenegger won the district twice, as did President Bush in 2000 and 2004.