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Vince Fong Clears Legal Hurdle in Bid to Replace Rep. McCarthy

Vince Fong, California Assemblymember and a contender to replace Rep. Kevin McCarthy, secures a legal victory as a judge allows him to remain on the primary ballot. The ruling follows a challenge by the Secretary of State, raising concerns about potential voter confusion. Fong's candidacy, endorsed by McCarthy, maintains its front-runner status in the race.

Assemblymember Vince Fong, who once worked as McCarthy’s district director and was immediately endorsed by his former boss, is well-positioned as a front-runner. | Rich Pedroncelli/AP

Los Angeles, CA — California Assemblymember Vince Fong’s congressional aspirations received a boost as Superior Court Judge Shelleyanne W.L. Chang ruled in his favor, allowing him to continue as a candidate in the race to replace retiring Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.).

Chaotic Start to the Race

The ruling marks the resolution of a tumultuous episode in the race to succeed the former House speaker, Kevin McCarthy. Fong’s candidacy was challenged by California Secretary of State Shirley Weber, who argued that Fong’s simultaneous run for both congressional and Assembly seats violated state election code.

Judge Rejects Secretary of State’s Argument

Judge Chang dismissed Weber’s argument, stating that the statute cited by the Secretary of State was “inapplicable to Fong” and could not be used to preclude him from the primary ballot. Fong, in response to the ruling, expressed gratitude and emphasized the victory for the voters of the 20th Congressional District.

Fong’s Celebratory Statement

In a celebratory statement, Fong said, “Today’s ruling is a victory for the voters of the 20th Congressional District, who will now have the opportunity to select the candidate of their choice in the March 5th election.” He appreciated the judge’s decision, framing it as upholding the integrity of elections and supporting Central Valley voters against what he called an “overreaching Sacramento politician.”

Concerns Raised by the Judge

While ruling in Fong’s favor, Judge Chang expressed concerns about potential voter confusion and disenfranchisement if Fong were to be elected to both offices. She noted that it seemed somewhat counterintuitive for the law to permit a candidate to run for two offices during the same election.

Fong’s Front-Runner Position

Fong, a former district director for McCarthy, immediately endorsed by the retiring congressman, is considered a front-runner in the race. The confusion over his eligibility prompted other candidates to enter the race for the solidly Republican district, including Tulare County Sheriff Mike Boudreaux, casino-owner Kyle Kirkland, and far-right challenger David Giglio.

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