Republican U.S. Rep. David Valadao has overcome a huge Democratic voter registration edge and his vote to impeach President Donald Trump to keep his seat.
“I will continue reaching across the aisle to find solutions to increase the Valley’s water supply, make energy more affordable, ensure our law enforcement are well-funded to keep communities safe, create good-paying jobs, and improve our healthcare system.” — Rep. David Valadao
The Hanford dairyman edged Democrat Rudy Salas in the 22nd District race.
With 98% of the ballots counted Monday night, Valadao had 52% of the votes to 48% for Salas, a margin of about 4,500 votes.
“The Central Valley is my home, and I am once again humbled by the Central Valley’s support and faith in me,” Valadao said in a news release Tuesday morning.
“To everyone who supported this campaign by putting in long hours, knocking on doors, and believing in this cause — thank you. I could not have done it without you. I commend Rudy Salas for running a strong campaign and his service to our community in the state Assembly.”
Valadao Pledges to Seek Bipartisan Solutions
Valadao also said that he will work with Republicans and Democrats to forge bipartisan solutions to challenges facing Valley residents.
“To my constituents, those who voted for me and those who didn’t … I will continue reaching across the aisle to find solutions to increase the Valley’s water supply, make energy more affordable, ensure our law enforcement are well-funded to keep communities safe, create good-paying jobs, and improve our healthcare system.”
Valadao was one of 10 House Republicans who voted to impeach Trump after the Jan. 6 Capitol insurrection. He is one of only two of those 10 to be reelected, along with Republican Rep. Dan Newhouse of Washington. Others retired or were defeated by Trump-endorsed primary challengers.
Trump criticized Valadao and other Republicans at the spring 2021 Conservative Political Action Conference in Orlando, Florida.
“Instead of attacking me and more importantly the voters of our movement, top establishment Republicans in Washington should be spending their energy in opposing Biden, Pelosi, Schumer, and the Democrats,” Trump said.
Trump listed 17 Republicans, including the 10 House members who voted for impeachment. Valadao was among those names. The crowd booed during the reading of the names, but only had a light reaction for Valadao.
“Get rid of them all,” Trump said, calling them RINOs, Republicans In Name Only.
Dems Hold 17% Voter Registration Edge in District
