Create account

Coverage dated October 22, 2026 to October 23, 2026

GOP Congressman in California Swing-District Race Defends Vote for Medicaid Cuts

Headline from KFF Health News

In a race that could help decide control of Congress, Republican U.S. Rep. David Valadao is trying to hold on to his swing-district seat. The congressman didn’t mention healthcare at a recent campaign rally in Bakersfield, but voters can't stop talking about it.

KFF Health News's own description from its feed. We collect headlines and these descriptions, not full articles; read the original reporting below.

Read the reports

Reports & sources

3 articles, oldest first.

  1. KBRW

    A GOP congressman voted to cut Medicaid. It covers 62% of his district. Can he win? (opens KBRW)

    Published

    KBRW's feed description

    Republican U.S. Rep. David Valadao is fighting for reelection in central California. 6 in 10 residents of his district are covered by Medicaid, which he voted to cut last year.

  2. KFF Health News

    GOP Congressman in California Swing-District Race Defends Vote for Medicaid Cuts (opens KFF Health News)

    Published

    KFF Health News's feed description

    In a race that could help decide control of Congress, Republican U.S. Rep. David Valadao is trying to hold on to his swing-district seat. The congressman didn’t mention healthcare at a recent campaign rally in Bakersfield, but voters can't stop talking about it.

  3. Capital & Main

    In Medicaid-Dependent Central Valley, Cuts Pose Political Risk for Six-Term Congressman (opens Capital & Main)

    Published

    Capital & Main's feed description

    Rep. David Valadao voted to slash Medicaid, giving Democratic challenger Randy Villegas an opening as voters focus on affordability and health care access.