Termed-out Fresno City Councilmember Nelson Esparza said Thursday morning that he is suspending his campaign for state Senate District 14 and endorsing former council colleague and fellow Democrat Esmeralda Soria.

“This campaign has never been about me or any one person,” Esparza said in a statement. “My career in public service has always been about giving a voice to working families, young people, seniors, immigrants, small businesses, and students, while always standing up for the most vulnerable. It has been about the people who are struggling to get by and the challenges they face every day.”

Esparza said his endorsement of Soria reflects their shared “vision for building a better and brighter California for our local communities. United together, I know we will protect this seat and defeat MAGA at every level of the ballot.”

Soria said in a statement issued Thursday evening: “Nelson and I have worked side by side over the years to fight for working families, young people, small businesses, and communities that are too often left behind. I respect his service, his leadership, and the values we share.”

Soria Deflates Esparza’s Early Momentum

Esparza entered the race early and picked up major endorsements from Reps. Jim Costa of Fresno and Adam Gray of Fresno, and Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer.

However, after Soria announced in March that she also would challenge for the seat held by termed-out state Sen. Anna Caballero, she started on a fund-raising and Democratic endorsement blitz that blunted Esparza’s momentum.

Soria, who represents the 27th District in the Assembly, served alongside Esparza on the city council from 2019-2022.

Former Merced Mayor Michael Murphy, a Republican, is seeking the 27th District Assembly seat. Also in that race is Karla Seijas, a Democrat. Merced City School Board member Priya Lakireddy, who previously announced for the seat, has dropped out.