Major endorsements come in for 20th Congressional District race

The endorsement battle for two candidates fighting to replace Speaker Emeritus Kevin McCarthy in the 20th Congressional District is heating up once again. 

Asm. Vince Fong (R–Bakersfield) and Tulare County Sheriff Mike Boudreaux announced endorsements on Monday from political and law enforcement leadership, respectively. 

The big picture: Fong, a former McCarhty acolyte, announced that House Speaker Mike Johnson has endorsed him. 

• Along with Johnson’s support, Fong received endorsements from House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, House Majority Whip Tom Emmer and Republican Conference Chairwoman Stefanik. 
• On the other hand, Boudreaux announced that he has been endorsed by the California State Sheriff’s Association. 
• Boudreaux has the support of sheriffs from across the Central Valley, including Fresno County Sheriff John Zanoni, Kings County Sheriff David Robinson, Stanislaus County Sheriff Jeff Dirkse, Merced County Sheriff Vern Warnke and Madera County Sheriff Tyson Pogue. 
• Retired Fresno County Sheriff Margaret Mims and retired Kern County Sheriff Carl Sparks have also endorsed Boudreaux. 

What they’re saying: Johnson said in a statement that Fong is an effective and dedicated leader in the Central Valley. 

• “He has fought to secure our southern border in the absence of action from the Biden administration, to restore parental rights, and to preserve the Second Amendment,” Johnson said. “He will be a needed conservative voice for the Central Valley in Congress and I am proud to support him.”
• Zanoni called Boudreaux a valued colleague and partner in keeping the Valley safe. 
• “Unlike any other candidate, he has the first-hand experience and knowledge of the dangers facing the Central Valley and its residents on a daily basis and understands the impact public safety has on our quality of life,” Zanoni said. “I know he’ll be the strongest advocate for the Valley and public safety, fighting for common sense solutions that truly work with a focus on reducing crime and homelessness. I hope my Fresno County neighbors will cast their vote for Sheriff Boudreaux in March.”