Vang pulls ahead of incumbent Matsui in Congressional District 7 primary race

With about 95% of the vote counted by Tuesday afternoon, Vang leads with nearly 31%, followed by Matsui at 29%, according to results compiled by the Associated Press. 

Vang posted the results on Instagram and wrote, “Living our ancestors wildest dreams.”

The race has been a back-and-forth between the two Democrats, with each offering  different backgrounds and visions for the district. Vang, who was first elected to the city council in 2022, argued voters were looking for new progressive leadership.

On election night, Vang said she plans to continue focusing on the same issues of free health care and affordability.

"Doesn't matter if you're a Democrat, a Republican, or have no party affiliation. So many of our families are struggling in this moment," she said. "We're going to focus on the issues impacting people's lives. That's what we did during this campaign during the primary. We're going to continue to do that until November."

Congresswoman Doris Matsui at an election watch party on Tuesday, June 2, 2026.Keyshawn Davis/CapRadio

Matsui has represented the Sacramento area in Congress since 2005 and pointed to her record and experience in office. At an election night watch party, she emphasized her record of opposing President Donald Trump and voting to impeach him twice in his first term.

"I have fought against Donald Trump. I fought against ICE. I really believe that health care is fundamental and we need universal health care," she said.

First-time candidate Republican Zachariah Wooden, 25, briefly held a lead over Vang after election night and now trails the two Democrats. He had endorsements from the Republicans in Sacramento County and San Joaquin County.