FRESNO, CA (KMJ) Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vermont) has shocked many by endorsing a political newcomer in the race to oust incumbent republican Congressman Rep. David Valadao (R-Hanford) in 2026.
Sanders this week announced he’s backing progressive democrat Randy Villegas instead of presumed democratic frontrunner Assemblymember Dr. Jasmeet Bains (D-Delano).
“Bernie and I share the same goal: to make life more affordable for working families,” Villegas said in a statement. “He has dedicated his life to putting power in the hands of ordinary Americans instead of the ultra rich, and I’m excited to work together to fight for our communities here in the Central Valley and across the country.”
NBC reports Villegas is affiliated with the progressive Working Families Party. The professor and community organizer currently serves as a member of the Visalia Unified School board.
“We must do everything we can to elect new, bold leaders like Randy who will be a champion for working Americans in Congress,” he added.
California’s District 22 is currently considered a toss-up.
