Democratic Rep. Lois Capps defeated Republican Abel Maldonado in the race to represent the Central Coast in Congress, according to incomplete returns.
Following redistricting, the seat became one of a few in California that the Republican Party hoped to wrestle from a Democratic incumbent. The campaign included numerous attack ads and support of more than $3 million from political parties, independent political groups and individuals.
Nevertheless, Capps easily swept into victory with a 55 to 45 percent lead with all districts reporting.


