Sanders-Backed Progressive Advances in California Swing District Against Valadao
The New York Times • • nation
Key Points:
- Randy Villegas, supported by progressives including Senator Bernie Sanders, advanced in a key Central Valley House district primary, crucial for Democrats aiming to regain control of Congress.
- Villegas will face incumbent Republican David Valadao in the general election, who has a history of narrowly winning re-election in this competitive Bakersfield-area district.
- Democrats are optimistic about new district boundaries and their chances of winning back Latino voters in the race against Valadao.
- Villegas overcame a strong challenge from moderate Democrat Dr. Jasmeet Bains, who was backed by the party establishment and labeled Villegas as “radical.”
- Republicans attacked Villegas as a “socialist” but paradoxically, a Republican super PAC supported his campaign, believing he would be an easier opponent for Valadao to defeat.