The Republican maintains a big lead in the special election, with the results to be certified later this week.

Huntington Beach Councilmember Tony Strickland celebrated his victory after winning the California State Senate District 36 ...

Huntington Beach Councilmember Tony Strickland declared victory Monday in the special election race for California’s 36th ...

Huntington Beach Councilmember Tony Strickland declared victory Monday in the special election race for California’s 36th ...

As of the latest tally, Strickland is over the 50% plus 1 mark needed to avoid the runoff, but more than 14,000 ballots ...

Huntington Beach City Councilman Tony Strickland appeared Wednesday to be headed for a victory in the 36th Senate District ...

(Photo by Michael Slaten, Orange County Register/SCNG) Huntington Beach Councilmember Tony Strickland declared victory Monday in the special election race for California’s 36th State Senate ...

(Photo by Michael Slaten, Orange County Register/SCNG) Huntington Beach Councilmember Tony Strickland declared victory Monday in the special election race for California’s 36th State Senate ...

If Strickland can stay above the 50% plus one threshold, he’ll win the seat outright without needing to go to an April runoff ...