Congressman David Valadao, R-Hanford says that anti-Israel protesters vandalized his office early Monday morning.

“This morning, my Hanford office was vandalized by anti-Israel protestors. I strongly support the right to peaceful protest, but violence and vandalism are never acceptable. In a democracy, harassment and intimidation is not how you make your voice heard,” Valadao wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

Valadao voted on several recent pro-Israel bills, including aid to the Jewish nation, condemning Hamas, and censuring Rep. Rashida Tlaib, D-Michigan.

Surveillance video captured the incident at the 107 S. Douty Street office in Hanford, Valadao’s office said. Damage was estimated at $1,200, making the incident a potential felony. The office reported the vandalism to local law enforcement as well as Capitol Police.

There have been no reported incidents at other Central Valley congressmember’s offices, including Rep. Jim Costa, D-Fresno; and Rep. Kevin McCarthy, D-Bakersfield, who has an office in Clovis.

This morning, my Hanford office was vandalized by anti-Israel protestors. I strongly support the right to peaceful protest, but violence and vandalism are never acceptable. In a democracy, harassment and intimidation is not how you make your voice heard. (1/3) pic.twitter.com/f2OHRuqeLu

— Rep. David Valadao (@RepDavidValadao) November 27, 2023

Also in Politics 101

• Rudy Salas wins key endorsements in congressional race.
• South Valley Assemblyman out. Who is running?

Salas Earns Governor’s Endorsement

Rudy Salas continues to receive high-profile endorsements for his Congressional District 22 run against Valadao — and more importantly for the March 5, 2024 primary that includes state Sen. Melissa Hurtado, D-Bakersfield.

Gov. Gavin Newsom endorsed Salas on Monday. The former Bakersfield Democratic assemblyman also earned the state party’s support.

Valadao leads the race in fundraising, with $1.1 million cash on hand. Salas reported $158,000 and Hurtado had $33,000 at the last reporting deadline through Sept. 30.

Chris Mathys, a Firebaugh Republican running to Valadao’s right, did not report any funds raised.

Mathis Not Running. Former Miss Central Valley Will.

Assemblyman Devon Mathis, R-Porterville, said he will not run for re-election in 2024. The five-term legislator does have one more term of eligibility remaining.

“As I retire from the Assembly, I’m looking forward to spending more time with my family, who have always been supportive of me. Despite my time in the Legislature coming to a close, my involvement with public service will continue. Once my term ends, I look forward to working with District Stakeholders on projects that will benefit the Valley,” Mathis said in an email statement.

It is late in the game for Mathis to drop out. The filing period is underway. With the incumbent no longer running, the filing period is extended until Dec. 13.

Alexandra Macedo, a Tulare Republican and environmental consultant, announced Tuesday she is running. She is a former Miss Central Valley.

Two Democrats have already pulled papers for the seat that covers all of Kings County, and parts of Tulare and Fresno counties.

Angel Ruiz is a south Valley labor and civil rights advocate.  Ruben Macareno is a member of the Farmersville Unified School Board. He ran for the seat in 2014 and 2022 but did not advance beyond the primary either year.

Mathis has $74,000 cash on hand, as of the last reporting date of June 30. No other candidate has reported financial figures.