Bernie Sanders backs progressive challenger Randy Villegas in pivotal Central Valley race

In a sweltering Bakersfield rally, Senator Bernie Sanders appealed to voters to support Randy Villegas, a 31-year-old community-college professor running as a progressive Democrat against incumbent Republican David Valadao in California’s 22nd Congressional District. Villegas, whose parents immigrated from Mexico, highlighted his opposition to Medicaid cuts and corporate money, positioning himself as a youthful alternative to the long-time incumbent.

Sanders praised Villegas as part of a nationwide wave of progressive challengers seeking to reshape Congress. Republican operatives, including the Congressional Leadership Fund and the National Republican Congressional Committee, have deployed mailers branding Villegas a socialist and warning of costly government programs. Local figures, from Democratic lawmakers to a Republican mayor, attended the event, underscoring the race’s significance as a potential toss-up in the upcoming House elections.