Republicans gain in OC primary; Dixon leads Foley in supervisor race

Republicans emerged with momentum from Orange County's primary election Tuesday, with Assemblywoman Diane Dixon leading Democratic Supervisor Katrina Foley in the ballot count for a key county supervisor seat, according to Voice of OC.

Neither candidate cleared the 50 percent threshold for an outright win, sending the race to a November runoff in a district where Republicans hold roughly 22,000 more registered voters than Democrats — a structural edge that could prove decisive in the general election.

Two state Assembly contests are also expected to head to November. In the 68th Assembly District, Santa Ana Democratic Councilman David Penzloza is projected to face Republican challenger Mayra Ruiz. The 67th Assembly District is shaping up as a contest between former Cypress Mayor Paulo Morales, a Republican, and Cerritos Mayor Mark Pulido, a Democrat, Voice of OC reported.

In a separate development, GKN Aerospace pledged a $3 million relief fund for residents displaced by a chemical tank evacuation, according to Voice of OC. The commitment is aimed at compensating community members still dealing with the aftermath of the industrial emergency.

The Orange County Health Care Agency ended a state grant that funded a Black maternal health program after enrollment fell short of required targets, Voice of OC reported. Separately, the Huntington Beach City Council voted to allow hard liquor service at a local bikini bar despite reported rape cases at the establishment and its proximity to a school.

City of Orange officials proposed placing a 1 percent sales tax increase on the November ballot to address municipal budget needs, according to Voice of OC. Fullerton also announced road repair plans amid broader infrastructure discussions across the county.

With several competitive races headed to November and Republicans holding a sizable registration advantage, turnout organization will be critical for both parties as Orange County heads into the general election season.