Earlier this week, two Republicans faced off in a special election for the U.S. House seat vacated by former Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.), with the winner defeating his opponent by a landslide.
On Tuesday night, California state Rep. Vince Fong (R-Bakersfield) was declared the winner of the special election for the 20th Congressional District, previously held by Mr. McCarthy. Fong defeated his Republican colleague, Tulare County Sheriff Mike Boudreau, by a margin of 60.3% to 39.7%. New York Post report.
The 20th Congressional District is said to be the most conservative in California, as there are more registered Republicans than registered Democrats, 47% to 27%.
Fong, 44, served as McCarthy’s district director for 10 years before being elected to the state House of Representatives, and McCarthy endorsed her in her campaign. Fong has also been endorsed by former President Donald Trump, who called Fong a “true Republican.”
“I feel humbled and grateful tonight,” Fong said in a statement.
“The campaign is over and the real work begins now,” his statement continued. “In Congress, I am committed to securing our borders, supporting small businesses, investing in water storage and infrastructure, revitalizing our energy industry, and keeping America safe amid the serious security threats we face. We remain committed to solving the tough issues facing our communities and our nation. ”
It’s unclear when he will officially take up the post, as Fung said he would continue to serve on state affairs before moving to Washington, where he will serve in Congress until at least January, strengthening Republicans’ razor-thin majority.
Boudreau, 57, who had the endorsements of Trump’s acting director of national intelligence, Richard Grenell, and Republican state Sen. Shannon Grove, is set to challenge Fong again for his House seat in November. But with the special election over, he appears focused on his next job. Fighting crime.
“California faces a crime crisis unlike any other in its history, which is why I will step up the fight for a safer Valley and a safer California,” he said. “I look forward to providing an update on this work in the coming weeks.”
It’s not surprising that two Republicans are vying for the seat once held by McCarthy. The 20th Congressional District is said to be the most conservative in California, with registered Republicans outnumbering registered Democrats 47% to 27%.
Rep. McCarthy, 59, was first elected in 2007 and was subsequently elected speaker in January 2023. But just 10 months later, he became the first speaker in U.S. history to do so after House Republicans resigned, frustrated with his leadership. He then resigned from the House altogether in December.
Like Blaze News? Bypass the censorship and sign up for our newsletter to get stories like this one directly to your inbox. Register here!
