Democratic Incumbent Ruiz Leading Race For US House Seat In 36th District

RANCHO MIRAGE (CBSLA.com) — Democratic incumbent Raul Ruiz was leading the race against Republican California State Assembly Republican Member Brian Nestande for the House seat in California's 36th District Tuesday evening.

COMPLETE COVERAGE: CALIFORNIA ELECTION RESULTS

Ruiz was leading with 54 percent of votes over Nestande's 46 percent with 32 percent of precincts reporting.

The 36th District covers the eastern Inland Empire, including Beaumont and Hemet, as well as Palm Springs.

CBS2/KCAL9's Crystal Cruz was reporting live from Ruiz's election night headquarters in Rancho Mirage, where she said supporters were optimistic about the results.

"I think it's a clear indication that the voters - the congressman's story has resonated with them," Ruiz's campaign manager, Jerah Smith, said. "And I think it's going to look good for the rest of the night."