Valadao, Villegas Clash in California House Debate

Republican Rep. David Valadao and Democratic challenger Randy Villegas clashed in their only scheduled debate for California’s closely contested 22nd Congressional District, a race that could affect control of the House. Villegas criticized Valadao’s record and argued that Central Valley families need new leadership less beholden to corporations, while Valadao presented himself as an experienced lawmaker who delivers for the region and rejected what he described as Washington-style combativeness. They addressed economic pressures, including gas prices, as well as immigration, health care, water and foreign policy. The debate underscored their contrasting appeals to voters in a district Valadao has repeatedly won despite its Democratic tilt.