Voting is a direct mechanism for protecting labor rights, securing fair wages, and ensuring workplace safety. In California, elected officials at every level—from the Governor’s office to the State Assembly—manage regulatory agencies, appoint labor board members, and influence legislation that impacts collective bargaining. Participating in the electoral process is a necessary step to maintain and enforce the standards negotiated in union contracts.
The Communications Workers of America (CWA) District 9 has released its 2026 Union Voter Guide, featuring recommendations from the SCC and NCNC. These candidates have been evaluated based on their legislative records and alignment with the priorities of organized labor.
Statewide Candidate Recommendations
- Governor: Katie Porter (D)
- Lt. Governor: Fiona Ma / Michael Tubbs (Dual)
- Secretary of State: Dr. Shirley Weber* (D)
- Attorney General: Rob Bonta* (D)
- Controller: Malia Cohen* (D)
- Treasurer: Eleni Kounalakis (D)
- Insurance Commissioner: Ben Allen / Jane Kim (Dual) (D)
- Superintendent of Public Instruction: Josh Newman (D)
Board of Equalization
- District 1: Nelson Esparza (D)
- District 2: Sally Lieber (D)
- District 3: Mike Gipson (D)
- District 4: Tom Umberg (D)
(Note: * indicates Incumbent)
Congressional and State Legislative Recommendations
CWA District 9 has issued comprehensive endorsements for U.S. Congress, the State Senate, and the State Assembly across California to ensure labor-friendly majorities in both state and federal legislatures.
For members organizing and voting in the Central Valley around Merced, notable local endorsements include:
- U.S. House District 13: Adam Gray (D)
- State Senate District 14: Esmeralda Soria (D)
- State Assembly District 27: Brian Pacheco (D)
Other key district recommendations across the state include:
- U.S. House District 9: Josh Harder (D)
- U.S. House District 21: Jim Costa (D)
- U.S. House District 22: Jasmeet Baines (D)
- State Senate District 20: Caroline Menjivar (D)
- State Assembly District 29: Robert Rivas (D)
Members should review the full CWA District 9 voter guide sheets to verify the recommended candidates for their specific congressional, senate, and assembly districts prior to casting their ballots. Local and state elections directly determine the regulatory and political environment in which the union operates.
As always, Local 9333 ALWAYS encourages you to vote your conscience. Go to https://calmatters.org/california-voter-guide-2026/ to become an educated voter. This is a non-partisan guide, so there is no agenda from either Democrats or Republicans.
