49th District
Matchup: Rep. Darrell Issa (R) vs. Doug Applegate (D)
Dynamic: The race between eight-term Issa and retired Marine Col. Applegate has gotten surprisingly tight, though the June primary suggested that could be the case. Issa outspent the political newcomer by about $700,000, but Applegate still managed to claim 45.5% of the vote to Issa’s 50.8%. Both candidates have launched attack ads: Applegate has criticized Issa for supporting Trump and accused Issa of profiting from his time in Congress. An Issa mailer highlighted accusations that Applegate harassed and threatened his ex-wife during their divorce. Race rating: Leans Republican Interesting fact: Issa, with an estimated minimum net worth of $254.7 million, is known for being the wealthiest member of Congress.