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House Democrats back Bains effort to flip the seat in CA
She is the first South Asian and Sikh American woman elected to the California State Assembly.
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Malvika Choudhary - Mon, 04, May 2026
- 13:10 EDT
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Jasmeet Bains / Screengrab from the ad
The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) added Jasmeet Bains, a congressional candidate for California’s 22nd District, to its “Red to Blue” program, marking the race as a top pickup opportunity in the 2026 midterms.
The contest targets Republican incumbent David Valadao, who represents one of the most competitive districts in the country and a seat Democrats are seeking to flip as they attempt to regain control of the U.S. House.
Also Read: California teachers' group backs Jasmeet Bains for Congress
“I’ve spent my life caring for this community – not from afar, but right here at home,” Bains said in a statement. “I’m proud to have the DCCC’s support as we build a campaign rooted in this community… Together, we will hold David Valadao accountable for turning his back on the Valley and deliver the leadership our families deserve.”
BIG NEWS:
— Jasmeet Bains, M.D. (@DrJasmeetBains) May 4, 2026
Our campaign was just added to the DCCC’s Red to Blue Program! That means this race is officially one of the best opportunities in the country for Democrats to flip a seat and take back the House. If you want to join the fight to protect healthcare access in the… pic.twitter.com/cXhA6qj4R7
DCCC chair Suzan DelBene said Bains’ inclusion reflects her viability in the race. “Dr. Jasmeet Bains has fought on the frontlines of health crises and built a track record of delivering for the Central Valley,” DelBene said, contrasting her with Valadao’s record on healthcare and economic issues.
The “Red to Blue” program provides selected candidates with organizational support, fundraising assistance and strategic guidance, and is widely seen as a signal of a competitive race.
Bains’ campaign reported raising more than $350,000 in its launch quarter and over $461,000 in the first quarter of 2026, according to campaign figures. The campaign also cited internal polling showing a tight race with Valadao, though those figures could not be independently verified.
Her campaign is backed by a broad coalition of labor and political groups, including the National Union of Healthcare Workers, SEIU California, the California Federation of Teachers, Bakersfield Professional Firefighters Local 246 and the Delano Police Officers Association, along with more than 30 union locals.
She has also secured endorsements from national Democratic organizations such as EMILY’s List, 314 Action Fund, ASPIRE PAC, Blue Dog PAC, Defend the Vote, Elect Democratic Women, New Dem Action Fund and Welcome PAC, in addition to multiple members of California’s congressional delegation.
Bains, a physician and first-term state assemblymember elected in 2022, has centered her campaign on healthcare access, cost of living and public safety in the Central Valley. Her campaign has highlighted her work during the COVID-19 pandemic and California wildfires, as well as legislative efforts in Sacramento, including securing funding aimed at addressing public safety and the fentanyl crisis.
The general election is scheduled for Nov. 3, following California’s top-two primary earlier in the year.
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