John Duarte, a Modesto farmer who took on the federal government, is running for Congress.

“Hard-working people are choosing between tanks of gas and what they’re eating for dinner. Farmers are wondering if they have enough water every single year. Parents are sending their kids to schools, knowing that their children should have better alternatives. It’s time to get back to basics,” Duarte said in a news release.

Duarte fought back against the federal government when the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers accused him of damaging wetlands on his property. He eventually settled, paying fines and admitting no liability. His case raised the issues of property rights and environmental law.

The 13th Congressional District is an open seat with no incumbent. Major names in the race include Assemblyman Adam Gray, D-Merced; Phil Arballo, D-Fresno; businessman David Giglio, R-Madera County; and Elizabeth Heng, R-Fresno, who is also running in the CD 22 special election.

Matt Stoll, R-Visalia, changed his filing from CD 13 to CD 21. His campaign team says they see a better path by running against incumbent Rep. Jim Costa, D-Fresno.

Also in Politics 101: 

• Hurtado, D-Bakersfield, will visit White House.
• Arias staffer leaves for Newsom post.

Hurtado, Now from Bakersfield, Headed for White House Visit

State Sen. Melissa Hurtado re-registered in Senate District 16 and is now officially in Bakersfield. She is the incumbent in a field that includes fellow Democrats Nicole Parra, former Assemblywoman; Delano Mayor Bryan Osorio; and Republican farmer David Shepard of Porterville.

Imelda Ceja, Bakersfield labor leader and a Democrat,  dropped out of the race on Friday.

Sources tell Politics 101 that Hurtado will visit the White House next week as part of a Women’s History Month event. Hurtado served on the National Latino Leadership Committee during the 2020 Joe Biden presidential campaign.

Arias Staffer Leaves for Governor

Dolores Barajas is leaving Fresno City Hall for Sacramento, her boss, city councilman Miguel Arias announced Thursday.

Barajas, who had been Arias’ chief of staff, is moving on to the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research. She will manage a grant program.

Gabriela Olea, who started in Arias’ office as a Fresno State intern, will take over as interim chief of staff.