California election results: U.S. House of Representatives District 22 race David Valadao (R) – Rudy Salas (D)

A tough political battle is underway in the South Valley.

Republican David Valadao and Democrat Rudy Salas are vying for a House seat for the second time.

Valadao and Salas are known enemies.

In 2022, Valadao defeated the former state Assemblyman by just over 3,000 votes, making him the incumbent in that race.

He has served in Congress since 2013 and lost the seat once in 2018 to Democrat TJ Cox.

This year, Valadao is committed to caring for veterans, protecting the region's water supply and supporting farmers in the Central Valley.

He also touts his willingness to work across party lines.

Valadao is one of 10 Republicans who voted to impeach former President Donald Trump and one of two who retained his seat after the impeachment.

Salas was born and raised in the Central Valley.

He was the first Latino to serve on the Bakersfield City Council.

He also served in the California State Assembly for ten years, raising investments for the Central Valley in the areas of nursing and education.

These remain key issues in this campaign, as do immigration, water and workers' rights.

The duel has national significance as Republicans in the House of Representatives fight to retain their slim majority.