1938 United States Senate election in California

The 1938 United States Senate election in California was held on November 2, 1938. Incumbent Democratic Senator William Gibbs McAdoo ran for a second term, but was defeated by Sheridan Downey in the Democratic primary. Downey went on to defeat Philip Bancroft in the general election.

Candidates

 * Sheridan Downey, nominee for Lt. Governor in 1934 and leader in the End Poverty in California movement
 * William Gibbs McAdoo, incumbent Senator
 * James W. Mellen
 * John W. Preston, former Associate Justice of the California Supreme Court
 * Ray Riley, State Controller (cross-filing)

Campaign
Senator McAdoo had the support of President Franklin Roosevelt and George Creel.

Downey was supported by his 1934 running mate Upton Sinclair and pensioner advocate Francis Townsend.

Candidates

 * Philip Bancroft, founding member of the Bull Moose Party
 * Ray Riley, State Controller since 1921
 * Louise Ward Watkins, community activist from Pasadena

Results
Although he did not cross-file to appear on the ballot, Sheridan Downey did receive write-in votes.

Candidates

 * Paul H. Bruns
 * Sheridan Downey, Democratic nominee for Lt. Governor in 1932 (cross-filing)
 * Ray Riley, State Controller (cross-filing)

Candidates

 * Sheridan Downey, Democratic nominee for Lt. Governor in 1932 (cross-filing)
 * Ray Riley, State Controller (cross-filing)