BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (Diya TV) — Democrats have set their sights on one of the most competitive House races in the country. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee has added Jasmeet Bains to its “Red to Blue” program, signaling a major push to flip California’s 22nd Congressional District in the 2026 midterm elections. The race targets Republican incumbent David Valadao, who has held the seat in a district known for tight margins and shifting voter support.

California’s 22nd District has become a top priority for Democrats seeking to regain control of the U.S. House. The district, located in the Central Valley, has a history of close elections. Both parties see it as a critical battleground.

The DCCC’s “Red to Blue” program highlights candidates it believes have strong chances to win Republican-held seats. The program offers fundraising help, strategic advice, and campaign resources. Political analysts often view inclusion as a sign of a competitive race. By adding Bains, the DCCC has made clear it believes she can unseat Valadao in November.

Bains, a physician and first-term state assemblymember, has centered her campaign on healthcare, cost of living, and public safety. She has emphasized her work during the COVID-19 pandemic and the California wildfires. Her campaign also points to her efforts in Sacramento to secure funding for public safety and address the fentanyl crisis.

“I’ve spent my life caring for this community — not from afar, but right here at home,” Bains said. She added that she plans to hold Valadao accountable and focus on local needs. Her campaign has gained early traction. It reported raising more than $350,000 in its launch quarter. It brought in over $461,000 in the first quarter of 2026. These figures suggest strong early fundraising, a key factor in competitive congressional races.

DCCC Chair Suzan DelBene said Bains’ selection reflects her strength as a candidate. She pointed to Bains’ background in healthcare and her ties to the Central Valley. DelBene contrasted Bains with Valadao on healthcare and economic issues. She said voters in the district want leadership that focuses on working families.

Bains has also secured backing from several labor unions and political groups. These include the National Union of Healthcare Workers, SEIU California, and the California Federation of Teachers. Local groups such as the Bakersfield Professional Firefighters and the Delano Police Officers Association have also endorsed her. In addition, national Democratic organizations have lined up behind her campaign. These include EMILY’s List and 314 Action Fund, along with several others focused on electing Democratic candidates.

Valadao has long proven resilient in a district that leans Democratic in voter registration but often swings in elections. He has built a reputation as a moderate Republican, which has helped him win crossover votes. Bains’ campaign says internal polling shows a tight race. However, those figures have not been independently verified. Analysts caution that early polling often changes as campaigns intensify. Still, the combination of national support, strong fundraising, and union backing suggests Democrats view this race as one of their best pickup opportunities.

California’s top-two primary will take place earlier in the year, with the general election scheduled for Nov. 3, 2026. The top two vote-getters in the primary will advance, regardless of party. Both campaigns are expected to increase spending and outreach as the election approaches. Voters in the Central Valley will likely see heavy advertising and campaign activity in the months ahead.