1988 United States Senate election in California

The 1988 United States Senate election in California took place on November 8, 1988. Incumbent Senator Pete Wilson won re-election to a second term.

For related races, see 1988 United States Senate elections.

As of 2024, this is the last time a Republican won a U.S. Senate election in California. This was also the first time since 1952 that an incumbent Senator was re-elected to this seat.

John Hancock Abbott, perennial candidate

Robert John Banuelos, candidate for Senate in 1986

Charles Greene, candidate for Senate in 1986 and Los Angeles County Sheriff in 1982

Lieutenant Governor of California and former Speaker of the California State Assembly

Leo T. McCarthy

Gloria Garcia, nominee for California Secretary of State in 1986

Maria Elizabeth Muñoz, Chicana activist and nominee for Governor in 1986

Joel Britton (Independent)

Jack Dean (Libertarian)

Lieutenant Governor of California and former Speaker of the California State Assembly (Democratic)

Leo T. McCarthy

Maria Elizabeth Muñoz, Chicana activist and nominee for Governor in 1986 (Peace and Freedom)

Merton D. Short (American Independent)

incumbent Senator (Republican)