The Democratic Party is turning to the charisma of pop rock star power in a crucial effort to regain control of the U.S. House and counter President Donald Trump’s administration. Tim Myers, Grammy-nominated former bassist for OneRepublic, announced his candidacy on Thursday against long-serving Republican Representative Ken Calvert in the 41st District of Riverside County, California. This district, extending from Los Angeles suburbs to Palm Springs, is considered a pivotal battleground where Democrats see an opportunity to make significant gains.
Myers, who grew up in Corona within the district, is now living in Los Angeles County. He is presenting himself as a fresh voice, challenging the decades-long tenure of Calvert. Myers expressed dissatisfaction with the current political landscape, emphasizing the need for change. Meanwhile, the Republican campaign arm criticized Myers, labeling him as a “Hollywood liberal” attempting to influence Riverside County politics.
With Republicans holding a slim majority in the House, the California contest carries significant weight. The Democrats aim to regain control to counterbalance the Trump administration’s policies on issues such as immigration and environmental regulation. Calvert, who has served since 1992, faces a challenging race as Democrats target his seat once again, following closely contested previous elections.
Myers draws on his music industry experience, recounting his journey from a pastor’s son in Corona to a successful music producer and entrepreneur. He criticizes Trump’s policies for negatively impacting veterans and increasing consumer prices. Emphasizing the community’s struggles with housing affordability, rising grocery costs, and threats from wildfires and crime, Myers advocates for change.
The district shows a narrow Republican registration advantage, with Calvert having narrowly won his last election. As Democrats strategize to reclaim the House, they have identified Calvert’s seat as a top priority for 2026. Despite California’s Democratic dominance, Republicans maintain influence in certain areas, including the Southern California suburbs and the Central Valley.
The Bottom Line
The outcome of this election in California’s 41st District could significantly impact the Democratic Party’s strategy to regain control of the U.S. House. For residents of the district, the election presents a critical decision point that could influence local policies on housing affordability, environmental protection, and crime prevention. The presence of a high-profile candidate like Tim Myers may increase voter engagement and bring national attention to the issues facing the community.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the contest between Myers and Calvert underscores the broader national struggle between Democratic and Republican agendas. The district’s outcome may serve as a barometer for broader political trends, influencing party strategies and voter priorities in future elections. For voters, this election offers an opportunity to voice their concerns and preferences on key issues affecting their daily lives.