CORONA, Calif. (KABC) — One of the most high-profile congressional battles in Southern California involves the Inland Empire’s 41st District, with a rematch of Democrat Will Rollins is trying to unseat incumbent Rep. Ken Calvert.

Rollins lost by about 11,000 votes in his 2022 campaign to unseat the Republican who has held the seat since 1993. But the challenger hopes his continued efforts, increased profile and higher turnout in a presidential election will give him a better chance this time. around.

The district includes communities including Corona, Menifee, Lake Elsinore and Palm Springs.

Millions of dollars were spent in a district that experts say is vulnerable to upset and therefore impacts the national balance of power in Congress.

The two candidates spent Tuesday touring the neighborhood and thanking their supporters and volunteers.

Calvert said if re-elected, he would prioritize energy production to help control inflation.

“The first thing we need to do is reduce the price of gas and groceries,” Calvert said. “The quickest way to do that is to lower energy costs. I want to make sure we pass the legislation to do just that. That means more oil and gas production, and everything else. energy. Reduce the cost of energy which is, I think, the biggest contributor to inflation.

Rollins said fighting corruption in Congress and imposing term limits was a priority, in addition to improving the state’s housing situation.

“In addition to lowering the cost of housing for Californians, we need to recruit people who want to fight corruption in both parties in Washington,” Rollins said.

If history is any guide, projecting a winner in this race could take several days.