Healthcare Affordability Emerges as Key Issue in California's 22nd Congressional District Race
Healthcare affordability has become a central concern for voters in California’s 22nd Congressional District, a highly competitive area that could influence the control of the U.S. House. Republican Representative David Valadao, who has held the seat for most elections since 2012, is facing criticism from Democratic challenger Randy Villegas regarding his healthcare policies. Villegas accuses Valadao of voting to cut healthcare for nearly 70,000 people in the Valley while simultaneously providing tax breaks to wealthy donors. Valadao, however, defends his record, stating he voted for HR 1 to protect Medicaid (known as Medi-Cal in California) for vulnerable populations, including children, pregnant women, disabled individuals, and seniors, and supported a rural health fund. He also advocates for work requirements for non-disabled adults in Medicaid, arguing for the program's sustainability. The district, which has a high Medicaid enrollment rate, saw Valadao lose his seat in 2018 after voting to repeal the ... 
