Each summary is supported by the candidate's own words from a campaign source, direct candidate response, or official primary record retained with the profile.
Domestic manufacturing
Candidate positionCongressman John Garamendi is focused on growing the middle class. He is the leading voice in Congress for “Make It In America” policies that will help bring manufacturing jobs back to America.
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Congressman John Garamendi is focused on growing the middle class. He is the leading voice in Congress for “Make It In America” policies that will help bring manufacturing jobs back to America.
Oppose Delta tunnels
Candidate positionCongressman Garamendi is dedicated to stopping the tunnels and saving the Delta. In addition, he has introduced legislation that makes vital investments in water infrastructure to protect the local species and better address future droughts.
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Congressman Garamendi is dedicated to stopping the tunnels and saving the Delta. In addition, he has introduced legislation that makes vital investments in water infrastructure to protect the local species and better address future droughts.
Rural hospitals and clinics
Candidate positionCongressman Garamendi wants to make America’s healthcare delivery system more effective in keeping us healthy, including additional incentives to keep hospitals and community clinics in underserved communities.
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Congressman Garamendi wants to make America’s healthcare delivery system more effective in keeping us healthy, including additional incentives to keep hospitals and community clinics in underserved communities.
Reported rural health and university research legislation
Candidate’s account of past workElected to the state legislature in 1974, Garamendi’s first legislation was the Rural Health Act of California to ensure that underserved residents in rural communities had access to quality health care. As a legislator, he established a work-oriented welfare program, developed a state agenda for economic competitiveness and scientific advancement, and authored legislation to fund the construction of research facilities across the UC system.
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Elected to the state legislature in 1974, Garamendi’s first legislation was the Rural Health Act of California to ensure that underserved residents in rural communities had access to quality health care. As a legislator, he established a work-oriented welfare program, developed a state agenda for economic competitiveness and scientific advancement, and authored legislation to fund the construction of research facilities across the UC system.
Reported insurance reforms
Candidate’s account of past workFollowing his service in the Clinton administration, Garamendi returned to California and was re-elected as Insurance Commissioner. By 2003, the California workers’ compensation insurance industry was in crisis: premiums were escalating exponentially, claims costs were rising at nearly eight times the rate of inflation and injured workers were unable to obtain the care to which they were entitled because of inefficiencies in the system. Garamendi created the "Plan for Workers’ Compensation Reform,” a roadmap for re- structuring the existing workers’ compensation system, which reduced $14 billion in excess cost and lowered premiums by 45%. He also protected home owners by requiring major insurers to justify their rates, resulting in premium decreases for consumers of $441 million in 2006 alone.
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Following his service in the Clinton administration, Garamendi returned to California and was re-elected as Insurance Commissioner. By 2003, the California workers’ compensation insurance industry was in crisis: premiums were escalating exponentially, claims costs were rising at nearly eight times the rate of inflation and injured workers were unable to obtain the care to which they were entitled because of inefficiencies in the system. Garamendi created the "Plan for Workers’ Compensation Reform,” a roadmap for re- structuring the existing workers’ compensation system, which reduced $14 billion in excess cost and lowered premiums by 45%. He also protected home owners by requiring major insurers to justify their rates, resulting in premium decreases for consumers of $441 million in 2006 alone.
Reported renewable-energy tax credits
Candidate’s account of past workAt age 27, Garamendi ran for the State Assembly, turning a long held Republican seat Democratic and ushering in a Democratic supermajority in the Assembly. A graduate of the world’s best public university and best business school, taught life’s harshest lessons on the dirt streets of rural Ethiopia and from the faintest memories of elders, Garamendi approached the State Capitol ready to build a brighter future for his constituents, California, and struggling people the world over. After just a single term in the assembly, Garamendi was elected to the State Senate. In his 12 years in the Senate, Garamendi served as Senate Majority Leader and the Chair of three standing committees: the Health and Human Services Committee, Joint Committee on Science and Technology, and Revenue and Taxation Committee. During this tenure, Garamendi wrote and passed a number of groundbreaking laws including The Rural Health Services Act which established the clinic system that today serve millions of Californians with their primary care. Garamendi was a key facilitator to get the first alternative energy tax credits in California signed into law, and later wrote the legislation to extend the tax credits in 1987 and 1990.
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At age 27, Garamendi ran for the State Assembly, turning a long held Republican seat Democratic and ushering in a Democratic supermajority in the Assembly. A graduate of the world’s best public university and best business school, taught life’s harshest lessons on the dirt streets of rural Ethiopia and from the faintest memories of elders, Garamendi approached the State Capitol ready to build a brighter future for his constituents, California, and struggling people the world over. After just a single term in the assembly, Garamendi was elected to the State Senate. In his 12 years in the Senate, Garamendi served as Senate Majority Leader and the Chair of three standing committees: the Health and Human Services Committee, Joint Committee on Science and Technology, and Revenue and Taxation Committee. During this tenure, Garamendi wrote and passed a number of groundbreaking laws including The Rural Health Services Act which established the clinic system that today serve millions of Californians with their primary care. Garamendi was a key facilitator to get the first alternative energy tax credits in California signed into law, and later wrote the legislation to extend the tax credits in 1987 and 1990.
Reported tuition and vocational education work
Candidate’s account of past workElected California Lieutenant Governor in 2006, he served as a UC and CSU Regent, where he fought for higher education funding and voted against every proposal to raise undergraduate tuition. As Chairman of the California Commission for Economic Development, he led successful efforts to expand workforce development and vocational education. As Chairman of the State Land's Commission, he protected the California Coast, Desert, Delta, and Lake Tahoe.
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Elected California Lieutenant Governor in 2006, he served as a UC and CSU Regent, where he fought for higher education funding and voted against every proposal to raise undergraduate tuition. As Chairman of the California Commission for Economic Development, he led successful efforts to expand workforce development and vocational education. As Chairman of the State Land's Commission, he protected the California Coast, Desert, Delta, and Lake Tahoe.
Military housing protections
Candidate’s account of past workGaramendi also serves as the Chairman of the Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness. In that capacity, he oversees over one-third of the Department of Defense's authorization--the largest of any Armed Services Subcommittee. He’s taken full advantage of his time as Chairman to empower our military to respond to the effects of climate change, passed legislation to provide stronger health care services to service members, and enacted a “tenants’ bill of rights” into law to provide greater legal recourse for service members who have been harmed by unhealthy conditions in privatized military housing.
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Garamendi also serves as the Chairman of the Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness. In that capacity, he oversees over one-third of the Department of Defense's authorization--the largest of any Armed Services Subcommittee. He’s taken full advantage of his time as Chairman to empower our military to respond to the effects of climate change, passed legislation to provide stronger health care services to service members, and enacted a “tenants’ bill of rights” into law to provide greater legal recourse for service members who have been harmed by unhealthy conditions in privatized military housing.
Water recycling, conservation and storage
Candidate positionSince his first day in Congress, Garamendi has served on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and he continues to use his position on this committee to modernize America’s infrastructure, produce millions of good-paying union jobs, and revitalize California’s water resiliency efforts. With 30 years of experience in California water issues, Garamendi is a leading advocate for a comprehensive water plan that includes water recycling, conservation, and storage to help meet California’s needs.
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Since his first day in Congress, Garamendi has served on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and he continues to use his position on this committee to modernize America’s infrastructure, produce millions of good-paying union jobs, and revitalize California’s water resiliency efforts. With 30 years of experience in California water issues, Garamendi is a leading advocate for a comprehensive water plan that includes water recycling, conservation, and storage to help meet California’s needs.
Historical public-option proposal
Candidate positionImplementing a national public option to increase competition and expand insurance opportunities in every community
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Implementing a national public option to increase competition and expand insurance opportunities in every community
Historical drug-import and fraud proposals
Candidate positionIncreased enforcement of laws that crack down on medical fraud in public and private insurance
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Increased enforcement of laws that crack down on medical fraud in public and private insurance
Physician loan forgiveness
Candidate positionFaster student loan forgiveness for primary care physicians willing to work in community clinics and underserved communities
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Faster student loan forgiveness for primary care physicians willing to work in community clinics and underserved communities
Sites storage and water rights
Candidate positionA More Reliable Water Supply: Working with his Republican colleague Rep. Doug LaMalfa, Congressman Garamendi continues to help Sites Reservoir in Colusa County clear all federal hurdles. Thanks to the work of Congressmen Garamendi and LaMalfa, the Bureau of Land Management is expected to release its analysis of the project next year.
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A More Reliable Water Supply: Working with his Republican colleague Rep. Doug LaMalfa, Congressman Garamendi continues to help Sites Reservoir in Colusa County clear all federal hurdles. Thanks to the work of Congressmen Garamendi and LaMalfa, the Bureau of Land Management is expected to release its analysis of the project next year.
Vocational training and veterans’ credentials
Candidate positionStreamlining duplicative and wasteful certifications for well-qualified veterans entering the civilian job market
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Streamlining duplicative and wasteful certifications for well-qualified veterans entering the civilian job market
Agricultural research and local food
Candidate positionStopped school districts from procuring canned foods from China when local produce is available
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Stopped school districts from procuring canned foods from China when local produce is available
Oil-by-rail standards
Candidate positionOil-by-Rail Safety: Garamendi's leadership ensured that the Administration is pursuing a national volatility standard to reduce the explosive nature of Bakken crude oil transported by rail. He has persistently lent his voice to efforts to stop oil-by-rail trains from traveling through the 8th District, which is especially important in our region given how many population
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Oil-by-Rail Safety: Garamendi's leadership ensured that the Administration is pursuing a national volatility standard to reduce the explosive nature of Bakken crude oil transported by rail. He has persistently lent his voice to efforts to stop oil-by-rail trains from traveling through the 8th District, which is especially important in our region given how many population
Reported eLoran navigation legislation
Candidate’s account of past workGPS Backup: Americans don’t realize how dependent their everyday lives are on GPS, and it’s a system vulnerable to hackers and terrorists. Garamendi authored legislation that passed the House to establish a GPS backup system known as eLoran.
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GPS Backup: Americans don’t realize how dependent their everyday lives are on GPS, and it’s a system vulnerable to hackers and terrorists. Garamendi authored legislation that passed the House to establish a GPS backup system known as eLoran.
Voting access
Candidate positionThe reduction of polling locations in regions with high numbers of black, Latino, and student voters;
The shortening of early voting periods;
Efforts to end weekend voting;
Efforts to deny students the right to vote based on spurious residency arguments; and
The deliberate placement of polling locations away from public transit stops.
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The reduction of polling locations in regions with high numbers of black, Latino, and student voters;
The shortening of early voting periods;
Efforts to end weekend voting;
Efforts to deny students the right to vote based on spurious residency arguments; and
The deliberate placement of polling locations away from public transit stops.
Historical Equality Act support
Candidate positionGaramendi supports the Equality Act, which would update the Civil Rights Act to include LGBT Americans, specifically making it illegal to discriminate against them in the workplace, housing, and public accommodations.
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Garamendi supports the Equality Act, which would update the Civil Rights Act to include LGBT Americans, specifically making it illegal to discriminate against them in the workplace, housing, and public accommodations.
American-made infrastructure purchasing
Candidate positionMiddle-class wages in America have stagnated for three decades, and our country’s future success depends on bringing back good manufacturing jobs. As a senior member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I am working to rebuild America’s infrastructure using American-made goods by American workers. When we “Make it in America,” we provide a vital economic stimulus for our nation and help rebuild the middle class, that is why I have authored numerous bills to ensure the federal government takes every action to support American manufacturing workers.
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Middle-class wages in America have stagnated for three decades, and our country’s future success depends on bringing back good manufacturing jobs. As a senior member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I am working to rebuild America’s infrastructure using American-made goods by American workers. When we “Make it in America,” we provide a vital economic stimulus for our nation and help rebuild the middle class, that is why I have authored numerous bills to ensure the federal government takes every action to support American manufacturing workers.
Collective bargaining, benefits and paid leave
Candidate positionA thriving economy is founded on jobs that not only pay workers a fair and livable wage, but also respect their right to organize, provide them with comprehensive benefits, and guarantee paid leave. I am passionate about promoting policies that advance American workers and have consistently supported legislation to help working Americans and protect their right to bargain collectively.
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A thriving economy is founded on jobs that not only pay workers a fair and livable wage, but also respect their right to organize, provide them with comprehensive benefits, and guarantee paid leave. I am passionate about promoting policies that advance American workers and have consistently supported legislation to help working Americans and protect their right to bargain collectively.
Student loan refinancing
Candidate positionI also introduced the bipartisan Student Loan Refinancing and Recalculation Act, which would allow students to refinance their student loan interest rates, lower future student loan interest rates, and delay student loan interest rate accrual for low-income and middle-class borrowers.
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I also introduced the bipartisan Student Loan Refinancing and Recalculation Act, which would allow students to refinance their student loan interest rates, lower future student loan interest rates, and delay student loan interest rate accrual for low-income and middle-class borrowers.
Public education and internet access
Candidate positionIn 2022, I secured nearly $4 million for Solano County schools to help students access reliable internet, allowing them to take advantage of online learning and do their homework. Students who lack access to the internet at home often fall behind their peers as curriculums and educational opportunities rely more heavily on the ability to conduct online research and connect to the web. I am committed to closing this gap, decreasing economic and racial disparities in educational outcomes, and ensuring all students can access the resources critical to ensuring their academic success.
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In 2022, I secured nearly $4 million for Solano County schools to help students access reliable internet, allowing them to take advantage of online learning and do their homework. Students who lack access to the internet at home often fall behind their peers as curriculums and educational opportunities rely more heavily on the ability to conduct online research and connect to the web. I am committed to closing this gap, decreasing economic and racial disparities in educational outcomes, and ensuring all students can access the resources critical to ensuring their academic success.
Background checks and crisis intervention
Candidate’s account of past workI proudly voted for the “Bipartisan Safer Communities Act,” signed into law by President Biden on June 25, 2022. This legislation will enhance background checks for people under 21, clarify the definition of a federally licensed firearms dealer, and narrow the “boyfriend” loophole by adding convicted domestic violence abusers in dating relationships to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System. Additionally, it will invest in mental health services for children, families, and schools, as well as provide funding for states to implement extreme risk protection orders and other crisis intervention programs.
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I proudly voted for the “Bipartisan Safer Communities Act,” signed into law by President Biden on June 25, 2022. This legislation will enhance background checks for people under 21, clarify the definition of a federally licensed firearms dealer, and narrow the “boyfriend” loophole by adding convicted domestic violence abusers in dating relationships to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System. Additionally, it will invest in mental health services for children, families, and schools, as well as provide funding for states to implement extreme risk protection orders and other crisis intervention programs.
Assault-weapons restrictions
Candidate positionI have always supported policies to keep dangerous weapons off our streets. In 1989, I represented Stockton in the State Senate when a lone gunman opened fire on a playground at Cleveland Park Elementary School, taking the lives of five school children and wounding 29 others. After hearing from witnesses and first responders, I introduced legislation that would become California’s assault weapons ban – the first of its kind in the nation. This legislation still serves as California’s assault weapons ban and covers AK-47s, AR-15s, and other guns capable of inflicting mass casualties.
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I have always supported policies to keep dangerous weapons off our streets. In 1989, I represented Stockton in the State Senate when a lone gunman opened fire on a playground at Cleveland Park Elementary School, taking the lives of five school children and wounding 29 others. After hearing from witnesses and first responders, I introduced legislation that would become California’s assault weapons ban – the first of its kind in the nation. This legislation still serves as California’s assault weapons ban and covers AK-47s, AR-15s, and other guns capable of inflicting mass casualties.
Renewable energy and worker transition
Candidate positionAs we continue to grow the clean energy industry, it is essential we support fossil fuel workers and ensure they are not left behind during the transition away from fossil fuels. I am fighting to ensure that clean energy jobs are open to all, especially former fossil fuel workers and people of color.
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As we continue to grow the clean energy industry, it is essential we support fossil fuel workers and ensure they are not left behind during the transition away from fossil fuels. I am fighting to ensure that clean energy jobs are open to all, especially former fossil fuel workers and people of color.
Clean water and environmental justice
Candidate positionNorthern California cannot prosper without sound water management and our community has experienced firsthand the devastating effects of droughts and water insecurity. Guaranteeing access to clean, safe water for all Americans is one of my top priorities and I am focused on generating new water for our community through investments in the necessary infrastructure and resources.
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Northern California cannot prosper without sound water management and our community has experienced firsthand the devastating effects of droughts and water insecurity. Guaranteeing access to clean, safe water for all Americans is one of my top priorities and I am focused on generating new water for our community through investments in the necessary infrastructure and resources.
Nuclear arms control and alliances
Candidate positionIn the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023, the annual bill that sets the policy for the U.S. military, I added provisions to prioritize nuclear arms control and nonproliferation. I will continue to stop the spread of nuclear weapons, combat terrorism in all forms, and work with our allies to keep Americans safe.
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In the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023, the annual bill that sets the policy for the U.S. military, I added provisions to prioritize nuclear arms control and nonproliferation. I will continue to stop the spread of nuclear weapons, combat terrorism in all forms, and work with our allies to keep Americans safe.
Diplomacy, human rights and Peace Corps
Candidate positionAs a returned Peace Corps Volunteer, who served in Ethiopia in the 1960s, I am passionate about advancing peace, equity, and safety around the world. Since its inception, America has been a global advocate for democracy, and we must continue to work with our allies to defend human rights, promote security, and ensure every person, everywhere, has the opportunity to succeed.
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As a returned Peace Corps Volunteer, who served in Ethiopia in the 1960s, I am passionate about advancing peace, equity, and safety around the world. Since its inception, America has been a global advocate for democracy, and we must continue to work with our allies to defend human rights, promote security, and ensure every person, everywhere, has the opportunity to succeed.
Medicare for All and ACA protections
Candidate positionNo American should be forced to choose between lifesaving care and putting food on the table. I am proud to support Medicare for All, which would create a single-payer system guaranteeing healthcare for all, regardless of income or employment status.
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No American should be forced to choose between lifesaving care and putting food on the table. I am proud to support Medicare for All, which would create a single-payer system guaranteeing healthcare for all, regardless of income or employment status.
Expanded Medicare services and drug negotiation
Candidate positionAs one of the foundational systems of American healthcare, it is essential we not only protect Medicare’s existence, but also work to expand its benefits. Currently, Medicare coverage does not include dental, vision, and hearing care or mental health and substance abuse treatment. That is why I have continuously co-sponsored legislation that would expand these vital services.
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As one of the foundational systems of American healthcare, it is essential we not only protect Medicare’s existence, but also work to expand its benefits. Currently, Medicare coverage does not include dental, vision, and hearing care or mental health and substance abuse treatment. That is why I have continuously co-sponsored legislation that would expand these vital services.
Community healthcare and workforce diversity
Candidate positionRacial and ethnic health inequities, stemming from systemic racism, are an undeniable part of our present healthcare system. It is unconscionable that people of color continue to experience disproportionately worse health outcomes in America. In Congress, I am working to address health disparities, by funding community-based organizations and diversifying the healthcare workforce.
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Racial and ethnic health inequities, stemming from systemic racism, are an undeniable part of our present healthcare system. It is unconscionable that people of color continue to experience disproportionately worse health outcomes in America. In Congress, I am working to address health disparities, by funding community-based organizations and diversifying the healthcare workforce.
Affordable housing and homelessness services
Candidate positionI am deeply concerned about the high number of Americans experiencing homelessness, both in California and across our nation. I am committed to helping our struggling community members into new homes and addressing the root cause of homelessness, by funding federal housing programs and expanding the supportive services and resources available to Americans.
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I am deeply concerned about the high number of Americans experiencing homelessness, both in California and across our nation. I am committed to helping our struggling community members into new homes and addressing the root cause of homelessness, by funding federal housing programs and expanding the supportive services and resources available to Americans.
Housing nondiscrimination
Candidate positionCommunities of color and low-income families have consistently faced housing discrimination, leading to wealth, education, and health disparities. It is imperative we abolish the current systemic barriers and policies preventing equitable access to housing and break the cycles of poverty and discrimination. I am working alongside our local communities to address the lasting impact of housing discrimination and ensure no American is forced to worry where they’ll sleep at night.
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Communities of color and low-income families have consistently faced housing discrimination, leading to wealth, education, and health disparities. It is imperative we abolish the current systemic barriers and policies preventing equitable access to housing and break the cycles of poverty and discrimination. I am working alongside our local communities to address the lasting impact of housing discrimination and ensure no American is forced to worry where they’ll sleep at night.
Citizenship pathways and DREAMers
Candidate positionOur current immigration system is undeniably broken and outdated. We must implement comprehensive reforms that prioritize both compassion and humanity, as well as national security. To modernize our immigration system to meet the needs of 21st-century America, we must provide the millions of hardworking, undocumented members of our community with a reasonable path to citizenship. Ensuring undocumented immigrants can earn legalized status and citizenship will reunite families and guarantee that those brought to America at a young age have access to the same opportunities as their peers.
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Our current immigration system is undeniably broken and outdated. We must implement comprehensive reforms that prioritize both compassion and humanity, as well as national security. To modernize our immigration system to meet the needs of 21st-century America, we must provide the millions of hardworking, undocumented members of our community with a reasonable path to citizenship. Ensuring undocumented immigrants can earn legalized status and citizenship will reunite families and guarantee that those brought to America at a young age have access to the same opportunities as their peers.
Afghan ally immigration
Candidate positionIn 2021, when the U.S. military withdrew from Afghanistan, almost 80,000 of our Afghan allies were forced to flee their home and seek asylum in America. These individuals selflessly placed their lives in danger to stand with our nation against the Taliban, but were faced with red tape and bureaucratic obstacles when attempting to relocate safely to America. I am honored to have introduced and supported multiple bills to ensure our Afghan allies can safely immigrate to the U.S.
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In 2021, when the U.S. military withdrew from Afghanistan, almost 80,000 of our Afghan allies were forced to flee their home and seek asylum in America. These individuals selflessly placed their lives in danger to stand with our nation against the Taliban, but were faced with red tape and bureaucratic obstacles when attempting to relocate safely to America. I am honored to have introduced and supported multiple bills to ensure our Afghan allies can safely immigrate to the U.S.
Military housing and PFAS contamination
Candidate’s account of past workIn the NDAA for Fiscal Year 2023, I added provisions to increase and improve housing for servicemembers, helping ensure all servicemembers receive the good-quality housing and benefits that they deserve. Additionally, I built upon my previous work to aggressively address PFAS contamination throughout military installations and protect the health of servicemembers and their families.
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In the NDAA for Fiscal Year 2023, I added provisions to increase and improve housing for servicemembers, helping ensure all servicemembers receive the good-quality housing and benefits that they deserve. Additionally, I built upon my previous work to aggressively address PFAS contamination throughout military installations and protect the health of servicemembers and their families.
Veterans’ toxic-exposure care
Candidate positionThroughout my tenure as Readiness Chair, I have worked to address issues affecting toxic-exposed veterans and I was honored to support the Honoring our PACT Act, signed into law by President Biden on August 10th, 2022. This new law will finally treat toxic exposure as a cost of war and will deliver the healthcare, support, and relief owed to impacted veterans.
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Throughout my tenure as Readiness Chair, I have worked to address issues affecting toxic-exposed veterans and I was honored to support the Honoring our PACT Act, signed into law by President Biden on August 10th, 2022. This new law will finally treat toxic exposure as a cost of war and will deliver the healthcare, support, and relief owed to impacted veterans.
Travis missions and base access
Candidate positionI secured $7.5 million in funding for a key project at Travis AFB in the NDAA for Fiscal Year 2023. Additionally, after listening to the recommendations of Solano County, I introduced a requirement that the Department of Defense provides standardized rules for military base access. This provision will help local communities support Travis AFB, as well as improve local roads and traffic flow.
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I secured $7.5 million in funding for a key project at Travis AFB in the NDAA for Fiscal Year 2023. Additionally, after listening to the recommendations of Solano County, I introduced a requirement that the Department of Defense provides standardized rules for military base access. This provision will help local communities support Travis AFB, as well as improve local roads and traffic flow.
Police accountability and racial-profiling safeguards
Candidate positionI was honored to be an original cosponsor of the “George Floyd Justice in Policing Act,” which would establish a framework to prevent racial profiling by federal, state, and local law enforcement and increase transparency and accountability. Congress cannot continue to stand idly by as Black Americans die at the hands of those sworn to protect them. I will never stop fighting to hold police departments accountable and prevent yet another community from being ripped apart by these senseless acts of violence.
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I was honored to be an original cosponsor of the “George Floyd Justice in Policing Act,” which would establish a framework to prevent racial profiling by federal, state, and local law enforcement and increase transparency and accountability. Congress cannot continue to stand idly by as Black Americans die at the hands of those sworn to protect them. I will never stop fighting to hold police departments accountable and prevent yet another community from being ripped apart by these senseless acts of violence.
First-responder training and community trust
Candidate positionI am committed to ensuring every community has the resources necessary to uphold the safety and security of all Americans. It is essential we equip first responders and police officers with the tools and comprehensive training required to reduce crime, while also strengthening the trust and partnerships between them and the communities they serve. I will continue to push for policies that rebuild public trust in law enforcement, prevent crime, and keep American families safe.
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I am committed to ensuring every community has the resources necessary to uphold the safety and security of all Americans. It is essential we equip first responders and police officers with the tools and comprehensive training required to reduce crime, while also strengthening the trust and partnerships between them and the communities they serve. I will continue to push for policies that rebuild public trust in law enforcement, prevent crime, and keep American families safe.
Social Security protection and COLA reform
Candidate positionThat’s why I introduced the Fair COLA for Seniors Act (H.R.716) to create a new Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) calculation for Social Security, that actually reflects how retirees spend their money—on things like healthcare and transportation. I will continue to ensure every retiree is guaranteed the financial security they deserve and to fight back against any effort to roll back support for seniors.
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That’s why I introduced the Fair COLA for Seniors Act (H.R.716) to create a new Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) calculation for Social Security, that actually reflects how retirees spend their money—on things like healthcare and transportation. I will continue to ensure every retiree is guaranteed the financial security they deserve and to fight back against any effort to roll back support for seniors.
Medicare expansion and nursing care
Candidate positionThere is much work left to do, particularly in improving nursing room care, and expanding vital services like dental and vision coverage to all seniors. I am committed to advocating for American seniors and will continue to push for policies that provide them with the support, resources, and health care they need for a safe and peaceful retirement.
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There is much work left to do, particularly in improving nursing room care, and expanding vital services like dental and vision coverage to all seniors. I am committed to advocating for American seniors and will continue to push for policies that provide them with the support, resources, and health care they need for a safe and peaceful retirement.
Roads, ports and water infrastructure
Candidate positionIn my senior role on the Coast Guard and Maritime Subcommittee, I am actively spearheading efforts to revitalize areas like Mare Island and ensure every port in California’s 8th Congressional District has the federal support it needs. These investments will create new, good-paying jobs, help our businesses, and strengthen the Bay Area economy.
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In my senior role on the Coast Guard and Maritime Subcommittee, I am actively spearheading efforts to revitalize areas like Mare Island and ensure every port in California’s 8th Congressional District has the federal support it needs. These investments will create new, good-paying jobs, help our businesses, and strengthen the Bay Area economy.
Clean-energy infrastructure investment
Candidate positionInfrastructure investments present a unique opportunity not only to improve the safety and efficiency of our nation’s systems, but also to combat the climate crisis, create millions of good jobs, and make our economy more sustainable. Integrating cost-effective ways to reduce pollution and advance economic and environmental justice is one of my top priorities when fighting for federal infrastructure investments.
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Infrastructure investments present a unique opportunity not only to improve the safety and efficiency of our nation’s systems, but also to combat the climate crisis, create millions of good jobs, and make our economy more sustainable. Integrating cost-effective ways to reduce pollution and advance economic and environmental justice is one of my top priorities when fighting for federal infrastructure investments.
Reproductive autonomy and contraception
Candidate positionI fervently support a woman’s fundamental right to choose. Now, more than ever, we must prevent, extreme anti-choice politicians from encroaching on individuals’ access to affordable reproductive health care and contraception. As a member of the Pro-Choice Caucus, I am proud to fight to preserve, protect, and advance policies that ensure reproductive autonomy for all Americans. I will continue to stand up against adversity and guarantee that every person, no matter where they live or how much money they make, has the freedom to make decisions about their own body.
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I fervently support a woman’s fundamental right to choose. Now, more than ever, we must prevent, extreme anti-choice politicians from encroaching on individuals’ access to affordable reproductive health care and contraception. As a member of the Pro-Choice Caucus, I am proud to fight to preserve, protect, and advance policies that ensure reproductive autonomy for all Americans. I will continue to stand up against adversity and guarantee that every person, no matter where they live or how much money they make, has the freedom to make decisions about their own body.
Pay equality and workplace benefits
Candidate positionIt is unconscionable that today’s women are still, on average, paid less than men. Both blatant gender discrimination and complex factors, such as limited access to childcare and unfair paid parental leave policies are to blame for the persistent wage disparity between men and women. I am committed to eliminating pay discrimination and ensuring women are provided with the comprehensive resources and benefits necessary to succeed in the workplace.
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It is unconscionable that today’s women are still, on average, paid less than men. Both blatant gender discrimination and complex factors, such as limited access to childcare and unfair paid parental leave policies are to blame for the persistent wage disparity between men and women. I am committed to eliminating pay discrimination and ensuring women are provided with the comprehensive resources and benefits necessary to succeed in the workplace.
Support for survivors of gender-based violence
Candidate positionWhile our nation has undoubtedly made progress to advance women’s rights, we must do more to protect women and hold perpetrators of violence accountable. I have always supported policies to uphold women’s safety and will continue to ensure survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and all gender-based violence have access to resources that empower and protect them.
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While our nation has undoubtedly made progress to advance women’s rights, we must do more to protect women and hold perpetrators of violence accountable. I have always supported policies to uphold women’s safety and will continue to ensure survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and all gender-based violence have access to resources that empower and protect them.
Commission on slavery and reparations proposals
Candidate positionTo begin deconstructing the racial inequities in every sector, from housing to education to healthcare, we must examine the full history and impact of racism in America. I am honored to be an original cosponsor of the Commission to Study and Develop Reparation Proposals for African Americans Act (H.R. 40), which would establish a commission to address the fundamental injustice and inhumanity of slavery in the America. While no monetary sum, nor any amount of material compensation could ever truly account for the treatment of Black Americans in this country, examining the origins and legacy of slavery will allow us to begin to make reparations and build a new America, where everyone is equal.
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To begin deconstructing the racial inequities in every sector, from housing to education to healthcare, we must examine the full history and impact of racism in America. I am honored to be an original cosponsor of the Commission to Study and Develop Reparation Proposals for African Americans Act (H.R. 40), which would establish a commission to address the fundamental injustice and inhumanity of slavery in the America. While no monetary sum, nor any amount of material compensation could ever truly account for the treatment of Black Americans in this country, examining the origins and legacy of slavery will allow us to begin to make reparations and build a new America, where everyone is equal.
Marriage equality and LGBTQ protections
Candidate positionI was honored to cosponsor and vote in support of the Respect for Marriage Act, signed into law by President Biden on December 13th, 2022. This essential legislation ensures that LGBTQ+ couples and interracial couples no longer need to fear whether the state they reside in recognizes their marriage. While there is significant progress still to be made to advance LGBTQ+ rights, I will continue to advocate for policies that federally protect the LGBTQ+ community from discrimination.
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I was honored to cosponsor and vote in support of the Respect for Marriage Act, signed into law by President Biden on December 13th, 2022. This essential legislation ensures that LGBTQ+ couples and interracial couples no longer need to fear whether the state they reside in recognizes their marriage. While there is significant progress still to be made to advance LGBTQ+ rights, I will continue to advocate for policies that federally protect the LGBTQ+ community from discrimination.
Protection against hate crimes
Candidate positionIn recent years, the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities, as well as the Jewish community, have faced a startling rise in hate crimes. It is critical we support these communities through this surge in horrific crimes, protect them from violence, and draw awareness to the hate that goes against America’s most foundational values. My foremost duty as your Representative is to ensure the safety of all Americans and I will continue to defend minority communities and resist all attempts to divide our nation and pit communities against one another.
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In recent years, the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities, as well as the Jewish community, have faced a startling rise in hate crimes. It is critical we support these communities through this surge in horrific crimes, protect them from violence, and draw awareness to the hate that goes against America’s most foundational values. My foremost duty as your Representative is to ensure the safety of all Americans and I will continue to defend minority communities and resist all attempts to divide our nation and pit communities against one another.
Aircraft cabin-air monitoring and reporting
Candidate positionThe legislation Congressman Garamendi introduced in the House of Representatives today builds on cabin air reporting provisions he secured in the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization Act of 2024. The bill would expand FAA reporting and investigation requirements, require real-time onboard air quality monitoring equipment, improve crew training, and enhance the collection and public reporting of data on engine oil and hydraulic fluid smoke or fume events to help prevent future incidents and improve aviation safety.
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The legislation Congressman Garamendi introduced in the House of Representatives today builds on cabin air reporting provisions he secured in the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization Act of 2024. The bill would expand FAA reporting and investigation requirements, require real-time onboard air quality monitoring equipment, improve crew training, and enhance the collection and public reporting of data on engine oil and hydraulic fluid smoke or fume events to help prevent future incidents and improve aviation safety.
Cancel immigration-enforcement shock gloves
Candidate positionWASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman John Garamendi (CA-08) joined Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03) and 48 other House Democrats in demanding the immediate cancellation of the Department of Homeland Security’s $16.7 million contract to equip Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents with electric shock gloves, officially called Generated Low Output Voltage Emitters (G.L.O.V.E.), and a total ban on the devices across all immigration enforcement and detention operations.
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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman John Garamendi (CA-08) joined Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03) and 48 other House Democrats in demanding the immediate cancellation of the Department of Homeland Security’s $16.7 million contract to equip Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents with electric shock gloves, officially called Generated Low Output Voltage Emitters (G.L.O.V.E.), and a total ban on the devices across all immigration enforcement and detention operations.
Reported BART station lighting investment
Candidate’s account of past workThe $500,000 will be used for BART’s Station LED Lighting Program to upgrade older fluorescent fixtures to energy-efficient LED lighting across El Cerrito Plaza, Richmond, and Pittsburg/Bay Point BART stations improving visibility, enhancing public safety, and reducing operational costs.
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The $500,000 will be used for BART’s Station LED Lighting Program to upgrade older fluorescent fixtures to energy-efficient LED lighting across El Cerrito Plaza, Richmond, and Pittsburg/Bay Point BART stations improving visibility, enhancing public safety, and reducing operational costs.
Disclose Iran war costs
Candidate positionIn a new letter to President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, the lawmakers demanded an accounting of operational costs placed on the Department of Defense; effects on the oil and energy market; and impacts on inflation, supply chains, and consumer prices, as American families continue to shoulder the cost of this conflict.
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In a new letter to President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, the lawmakers demanded an accounting of operational costs placed on the Department of Defense; effects on the oil and energy market; and impacts on inflation, supply chains, and consumer prices, as American families continue to shoulder the cost of this conflict.
Protect Medicaid funding
Candidate positionCongressman John Garamendi believes every American deserves the right to retire with dignity. He is resolutely opposed to all efforts to privatize Social Security, dismantle Medicare, and defund Medicaid/MediCal.
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Congressman John Garamendi believes every American deserves the right to retire with dignity. He is resolutely opposed to all efforts to privatize Social Security, dismantle Medicare, and defund Medicaid/MediCal.
Fair trade and sustainability
Candidate positionAmerica should be the world’s advocate in promoting human rights throughout the world. American benevolence can have a profound impact in regions of the world suffering from starvation and disease. We know that extremism and violence thrive in the poorest regions of the world, so this is really a national security issue too. As a proud alumnus of the Peace Corps, Garamendi supports its continued presence and expansion throughout the world, and we must work with the international community to promote fair trade and a sustainable global economy.
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America should be the world’s advocate in promoting human rights throughout the world. American benevolence can have a profound impact in regions of the world suffering from starvation and disease. We know that extremism and violence thrive in the poorest regions of the world, so this is really a national security issue too. As a proud alumnus of the Peace Corps, Garamendi supports its continued presence and expansion throughout the world, and we must work with the international community to promote fair trade and a sustainable global economy.