U.S. House District 22 race: David Valadao (R) - Rudy Salas (D)

A tight political fight is underway in the South Valley.

Republican David Valadao and Democrat Rudy Salas are facing off for a second time for a seat in the House.

Valadao and Salas are familiar foes.

In 2022, Valadao beat the former State Assemblymember by just over 3000 votes, making him the incumbent in this race.

He has been serving in Congress since 2013, losing the seat once to democrat TJ Cox in 2018.

This year, Valadao is campaigning on taking care of veterans, protecting the region's water supply and supporting central valley farmers.

He also touts his willingness to work across party lines.

Valadao is one of ten Republicans that voted to impeach former President Donald Trump and one of two that kept his seat after the impeachment.

Salas was born and raised here in the Central Valley.

He was the first Latino to serve in the Bakersfield City Council.

He's also served in the state assembly for 10 years, getting investments for the Central Valley when it comes to nursing and education.

These also continue to be key points in this campaign, as well as immigration, water, and workers rights.

The matchup has national significance as House Republicans fight to keep their narrow majority.