Stockton Mayor Lincoln Takes On Congressman Gray in November Race

Voters in California's 13th District will pick a new representative on November 3.

The race pits Democratic U.S. Rep. Adam Gray against Kevin Lincoln, the former mayor of Stockton. Both men agree that affordability is the main concern for local families. They disagree on the specific steps needed to lower costs.

Lincoln is a well-known figure in Stockton local politics. Gray, a former state assemblymember, is less familiar to many residents even though his district now includes downtown Stockton. Gray won the seat two years ago by a margin of 187 votes out of 210,921 cast. He defeated Republican Rep. John Duarte in that narrow contest.

Lincoln, a former Marine, ran in 2024 against Rep. Josh Harder in the 9th District. He lost that race but planned a rematch. He switched his focus to District 13 after new district lines were drawn under Proposition 50. The new District 13 covers the agricultural heart of the San Joaquin Valley and extends south along Interstate 5 to the Coalinga area.

State records from 2023 show the district had 42.3% registered Democrats and 28.5% registered Republicans. Federal Election Commission data from June 30 shows Gray has raised more money. He holds $4.2 million in contributions and loans. Lincoln has $2.2 million. President Donald Trump gave Lincoln his complete and total endorsement in December. Lincoln called the support honored and thankful and lists it on his campaign site.

Lincoln recorded a video for the National Republican Congressional Committee titled MAGA Majority. The clip features his time as mayor, his Marine service, and his work as a pastor. His LinkedIn profile states he served in the Marine Corps White House Military Office from 2001 to 2005. He guarded Marine One during that period and served as executive pastor at Stockton's LifeSong Ministries through 2020.

Lincoln says his top priority is to restore the American dream by making home ownership more affordable. He accuses Gray of voting to raise taxes repeatedly. At a September rally, Lincoln said he wants to lower the cost of gas, food, and utilities. He also said he wants to create jobs, cut taxes, and expand healthcare access. He told the crowd he knows how to grind, fight, and win a tough election.

Gray, a native of Merced, has called Trump's deportation policies irresponsible, reckless, and dangerous. He told the Sacramento Bee that voters want an independent voice rather than a strictly Democratic or Republican one. Gray serves as a whip for the Blue Dog Coalition, a group of moderate lawmakers. He points to his work reversing Medicaid cuts and limiting presidential tariff powers. He also introduced a measure to reduce regulations on thermal energy.

Gasoline and diesel prices have risen since the war with Iran began. Lincoln counters Gray's record by stating that Gray increased the gas tax over 113% a gallon while in the California Legislature.