“It was the honor of my lifetime to be the Democratic nominee for California’s 8th Congressional District. I am so proud of the campaign we ran as evidenced by the unparalleled enthusiasm, unprecedented voter engagement and turnout in our district in this election. While the results are not what we hoped for, I am deeply encouraged by the renewed passion for activism in a district that has long been forgotten. I would like to thank my wonderful team and every volunteer who made a phone call, knocked on a door, or took on the task of running for local office themselves. California’s 8th is transforming and I am hopeful for what the future holds for our district.
Our district deserves to be protected and it deserves investment in the health and economic well-being of our families and the health of our beautiful public lands. I was propelled to run for office because health care should be a right in this country and because I love this place too much not to fight to protect our extraordinarily beautiful home. None of that has changed, and I will continue to be an advocate for this very special district and the people who make it their home. I have met the most wonderful people in my travels: veterans, elders, students, teachers, healthcare providers, community and faith leaders, small business owners, firefighters and park rangers and each meeting, each story, has made me more committed to working to protect the well-being of our community.
Traveling around this vast district, I heard from so many people who are trying to make a good life here. What you all constantly remind me is that no matter what our political leanings or where in the district we live, we’re all concerned about the same things: being able to live a secure, happy, and fulfilling life.
I spoke with Assemblyman Jay Obernolte yesterday to congratulate him on winning the election. I look forward to the work that is yet to come so that everyone has the opportunities we all deserve.”