Progressive Democrat Wins Key California Seat, Unseating Last Republican Who Voted to Impeach Trump
Randy Villegas defeated incumbent David Valadao in California's 22nd Congressional District, marking a significant shift in the political landscape.
In a decisive victory, Randy Villegas, a Progressive Democrat, has emerged victorious in the race for California's 22nd Congressional District, defeating incumbent David Valadao 123. This outcome is particularly noteworthy as Valadao was the last Republican member of Congress to vote for the impeachment of former President Donald Trump following the January 6, 2021 attack on the Capitol 3.
The results show Villegas securing 66% of the vote, while Valadao garnered 34% 3. This substantial margin reflects the changing dynamics within the district, which has seen a favorable redistricting for Democrats, potentially influencing voter preferences 3.
Valadao, known for his moderate stance within the Republican party, had represented both California's 22nd and 21st districts since 2013, most recently taking office for the 22nd district in 2023 23. His tenure included a pivotal moment in American politics when he cast his vote for the impeachment of Trump, distinguishing him from many of his fellow Republicans 3.
The electoral contest took place in California’s Central Valley, a region known for its agricultural richness and diverse demographics 1. This battleground area of California saw a notable shift towards Democratic favorability, likely influenced by recent redistricting efforts 23.
Villegas, a progressive Democrat, will now take his seat in the House of Representatives, bringing a fresh perspective to the legislative body 12. His victory underscores the evolving political landscape in California and highlights the continued influence of demographic changes and policy stances on electoral outcomes.
What we know
- - Randy Villegas defeated David Valadao in the election for California's 22nd Congressional District 123
- - Villegas won with 66% of the vote, while Valadao received 34% 3
- - Valadao was the last Republican to vote for Trump's impeachment post-January 6, 2021 3
- - The race took place in California's Central Valley, a battleground area 12
- - Redistricting favored Democrats in Valadao's district 3
- - Valadao represented the 22nd district since 2023, having previously held the 21st and 22nd districts since 2013 23
- - Villegas is a Progressive Democrat, while Valadao is a moderate Republican 12
Trust Score report
Likely accurate — probability of truth 72%, weighted across 13 claims from 3 independent outlets.
- confirmed Randy Villegas defeated David Valadao in an election. (92%)
- likely Villegas won the race for California's 22nd Congressional District. (70%)
- likely Villegas received 66% of the vote, while Valadao received 34%. (67%)
- likely Valadao was the last Republican member of Congress who voted to impeach Trump after the January 6, 2021 attack on the Capitol. (67%)
- confirmed Randy Villegas is a Progressive Democrat. (85%)
- likely David Valadao is a moderate Republican. (72%)
- likely The electoral contest took place in California's Central Valley. (72%)
- likely The race took place in a battleground area of California. (70%)
- likely Valadao previously represented California's 22nd and 21st districts in the House of Representatives since 2013. (70%)
- likely The election took place on November 4, 2026. (67%)
- likely California's redistricting favored Democrats in Valadao's district. (67%)
- likely Valadao represented California's 22nd Congressional District since 2023. (67%)
- likely At least 64% of Valadao's constituents rely on Medicaid. (67%)
Sources
- NYT U.S. — Randy Villegas, a Progressive Democrat, Ousts a G.O.P. Incumbent in California
https://www.nytimes.com/2026/11/04/us/california-house-22-villegas-valadao.html - The Hill — Valadao ousted in battleground California House contest
https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/6182580-democrat-villegas-upsets-incumbent-valadeo/ - Washington Examiner Congress — Final Republican who voted to impeach Trump loses reelection bid
https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/campaigns/congressional/4764482/california-house-vulnerable-republican-david-valadao-newcomer-randy-villegas/