NUHW Members Campaign for Pro-Worker Candidates in Key Elections

Activism Heats Up in Key Congressional Races

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In the heat of California's political landscape, activists and union members are mobilizing to sway crucial congressional races. Amy Dinovo, a licensed clinical social worker from northern Los Angeles County, exemplifies this grassroots momentum. Despite not residing in the 22nd Congressional District, Dinovo traveled to Bakersfield on August 22 to campaign for Randy Villegas, the Democratic contender aiming to unseat Republican David Valadao.

"I strongly believe that we need to get out in force in this election," said Dinovo. "There is so much at stake, and Randy is a great option. We need to get Trump out, and all of that MAGA needs to go. It has been so hurtful to healthcare, to the workers; we’re seeing that play out every day in our clinics."

The stakes in these races are high, as pro-worker Democrats seek to gain a House majority. This majority is seen as crucial for counterbalancing presidential power and safeguarding workers' rights. The National Union of Healthcare Workers (NUHW) members are not standing idly by.

Earlier this month, NUHW members supported Aisha Wahab’s campaign. Wahab recently secured a special election victory replacing Eric Swalwell and is set to run for a full term in November. Her campaign faced significant financial opposition from special interest groups, yet she maintained her stance advocating for working individuals.

"There’s a lot at stake," commented Jackki Patrick, a patient care assistant and member of the NUHW Executive Board. Patrick, who hails from Oakland, emphasized the importance of supporting Wahab in the face of well-funded opposition. "Aisha Wahab is someone we know and trust; we can’t stay home when billionaires are cutting huge checks to try to keep her out of Congress."

Wahab herself addressed the campaign volunteers on August 15, expressing concern over the outsized financial influence in the race. "Take a look," Wahab said. "We are so diverse. We are coming together particularly because we know the East Bay is about community building and building together. And what we have seen in this particular race is well over $9 million spent on this seat. That is ridiculous…. It’s a ludicrous amount."

Back in the 22nd District, Randy Villegas faces similar financial challenges. His campaign relies heavily on dedicated volunteers like Saysamone Medrano, a medical social worker in Bakersfield. Medrano, who was canvassing for the first time, expressed the necessity of grassroots support. "There’s too much money going to other people, and these candidates need our support in the frontlines to get the word out," Medrano stated. "Randy supports the little people, the workers, and we need to support him."