New York Times: Latino Democrats Fight to Fend Off Upstart Challengers
Original Article: New York Times
Latino Democrats Fight to Fend Off Upstart Challengers
The Congressional Hispanic Caucus is defending four key incumbents in
primary races centered on how aggressively Democrats are combating ICE and
President Trump.
By Kellen Browning | March 2, 2026
Representative Adriano Espaillat of New York brandished a court order outside an
immigration detention facility in Manhattan last month, demanding to check on the
migrants’ living conditions.
As he prepared to enter, Mr. Espaillat ran through the ways that fellow Democratic
members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus had tried to support
undocumented immigrants — whether by backing legislation or by putting
themselves in harm’s way.
“We’ve been teaching the Democratic caucus how to fight this,” he said.
Mr. Espaillat is one of four Latino House Democrats trying to fight off primary
challenges from younger opponents and from the left — including some from fellow
Latinos — at a time when they say they are leading the charge in combating
President Trump’s deportation push and the tactics of Immigration and Customs
Enforcement. One of those Democrats, Representative Sylvia Garcia of Texas, is
facing a competitive primary on Tuesday.
On Monday, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus’s political action committee
injected new urgency into the incumbents’ efforts to hold their seats, announcing
an effort called “Luchadores” aimed at defending the four key members. The
committee, BOLD PAC, argues that Latino Democrats in Congress have been
crucial in fighting ICE, and that their identities and experiences are especially
important to have in Congress when so many Latinos in America are afraid of
being detained or deported.
But their challengers say the incumbents have simply not been fighting aggressively enough.
As Democrats contend with an anti-establishment backlash and accusations that their party has
fallen out of touch with everyday people, a wide array of incumbents face primary opponents this year. At least one
progressive, Analilia Mejia of New Jersey, has already scored an upset victory
against an establishment Democrat in a primary race this year.
In some of these races, as in many others, the challengers accuse the incumbents
of being ineffective, of upholding a status quo that hinders the working class and of
hoovering up donations from corporate interests and through groups like AIPAC,
the pro-Israel lobbying organization.
“When you get to Washington and you are bought and sold by corporate PACs and
right-wing lobbies, you don’t have to actually fight with the urgency that your
community demands,” said Usamah Andrabi, a spokesman for Justice Democrats,
a progressive group. It helped vault Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of
New York to Congress and is backing two of the challengers to Latino incumbents
this year.
Aside from Mr. Espaillat, who serves as chair of the caucus, and Ms. Garcia, the
other Latino House Democrats facing primary challenges include Representatives
Rob Menendez of New Jersey and Jimmy Gomez of California.
BOLD PAC has already spent $204,000 on mail advertising defending Ms. Garcia,
whose primary election is on Tuesday. The committee has amassed an $11.2 million
war chest so far this year across its aggregated committees. BOLD PAC has $6.8
million in cash on hand, it said.
In 2024, the PAC spent $485,000 defending Mr. Menendez against a different
primary challenger and $3.3 million overall backing the caucus’s incumbents that
year. It spent $2.8 million to help incumbents in 2022.
This year, the four incumbents face varying degrees of competitiveness in their
challenges, and the races have unique quirks. Ms. Garcia, for instance, is running
in a new Houston-area district after Texas Republicans redrew the state’s
congressional map last year in an effort to oust several Democratic incumbents.
Much of her Latino constituency was drawn into a different district that is
expected to become an easy pickup for Republicans. Ms. Garcia is now facing
Jarvis Johnson, a Democratic former state representative who is Black, in a
heavily Black district. He has argued that Ms. Garcia struggled to engage voters in
her old district. Last month, The Houston Chronicle described Ms. Garcia’s political
career as being “in serious jeopardy,” though a poll later found her leading Mr. Johnson by double digits.
In an interview, Ms. Garcia said that she was optimistic about her chances but
concerned about the contest — given the newness of the district — and that she
was campaigning until the very last moment.
A loss, she said, would mean that the three million Latinos in the Houston region
would no longer have “someone that looks like them, that shares their values, their
language, their culture, their heritage.”
In New Jersey, Mr. Menendez fended off a serious competitor two years ago,
running in the shadow of the case against his father, Bob Menendez, the former
senator who was later convicted on bribery and corruption charges. Now the
younger Mr. Menendez faces Mussab Ali, a progressive former member of the
Jersey City Board of Education whose campaign is backed by Jamaal Bowman, the
former New York congressman who was part of the left-wing “Squad.”
Last month, Mr. Menendez emerged from an immigration detention center in
Newark called Delaney Hall looking drained after hours of meeting with
immigrants and checking on their legal situations and living conditions.
“Delaney Hall is set up to break people,” he said. “It’s difficult to comprehend why
we collectively allow this to continue, and it’s infuriating.”
Mr. Menendez said he had been fighting Mr . Trump’s deportation efforts for more
than a year.
“What has he done?” Mr. Menendez said of Mr. Ali. “He talks and he’ll put out
Instagram videos — what has he actually done?”
Mr. Ali responded that he has been “on the ground educating immigrant residents
and business owners on their rights,” and that Mr. Menendez “didn’t say ‘Abolish
ICE’ until we forced it into the race.”
In Los Angeles, Mr. Gomez faced a tough re-election bid in 2024 against a
progressive candidate who earned 44 percent of the vote. An AIPAC-tied group
spent money defending Mr. Gomez, support that his half-dozen primary opponents
this time around hope will drag him down at a time when many Democrats have
turned against Israel over the war in Gaza.
One challenger, Angela Gonzales-Torres, who has the backing of Justice
Democrats, said Mr. Gomez had moved far too slowly in combating ICE — a claim
BOLD PAC denies — and in holding workshops for immigrants to learn their legal
rights.
“We need someone in office that feels and acts on the urgency of this moment,” Ms.
Gonzales-Torres said. “People are calling some Democrats ‘do-nothing Democrats’
— he is one of them.”
Ms. Gonzales-Torres, an activist whose father was deported to Mexico over a
decade ago, said the primary battle was less about identity and more about the
working class versus the establishment.
“More than the fact that both Gomez and I are Latinos, this is about real
representation and respect for our people and who we are fighting for,” she said.
It’s a similar argument made by Mr. Espaillat, just in reverse. In New York, he, too,
faces a younger Latina challenger backed by Justice Democrats, Darializa Avila
Chevalier.
“It’s not just being Hispanic or young — you’ve got to know the district,” Mr. Espaillat said, listing off various demographic groups in his diverse Harlem region. “And I think I know that district better than anybody else in New York City.”
Mr. Espaillat said he empathized with voters’ desire for new voices. But, he said,
am a new voice.”
“I’m the first Dominican American elected to Congress, and the first formerly
undocumented member of Congress,” he added.
He pointed to his insurgent bona fides: unsuccessful runs more than a decade ago
against Charles Rangel, a Black former congressman, and an eventual victory over
Mr. Rangel’s handpicked successor — all of which irked the Congressional Black
Caucus. (It is now backing Mr . Espaillat.)
Ms. Avila Chevalier, a Ph.D. student and organizer who helped lead protests
against the war in Gaza at Columbia University, said that Mr . Espaillat’s
acceptance of money from AIPAC-tied groups and corporate PACs undercut his
stance as a fighter.
“The incumbent, even to this day, has not said ‘Abolish ICE’ — he’s been saying ‘dismantle,’” Ms. Avila Chevalier said. “I’m not even clear what that means — it sounds like reform. This is not an institution that can be reformed.”
Kellen Browning is a Times political reporter based in San Francisco.
Original Article: POLITICO Democrats’ next push to be more likable with Latinos By ALI BIANCO | February 18, 2026 DOWN IN THE LONE STAR STATE: You may not have heard of Carlos Eduardo Espina . But there’s about 14 million people across the U.S. who follow the Uruguayan-American’s Spanish content on TikTok, almost religiously. And it’s influencers like him that are forming the bedrock of the Democratic Party’s latest bet to win back Latino voters going into the midterms. With the primary in Texas already underway, BOLD PAC, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus’ campaign arm, kicked off a new digital-first strategy called RUIDO aimed at mobilizing Latino content creators — about 50, to start — to reach voters and get them to turn out for Democrats. It’s a new approach for a coalition of voters that has historically had abysmal turnout in off-year elections, and who often never interact with a candidate in local races or receive traditional outreach. “I think Democrats quickly realized, we need to reach this new set and this new demographic, or this changing demographic, of people so we can understand what they’re feeling, what they’re thinking,” Espina told your author. And doing so could mean a “new brand of the Democratic Party.” Democrats think they have an opening with Latinos as polling increasingly shows frustration with Trump’s immigration agenda and with the cost of living. But there’s another problem that influencers like Espina are hoping they can help with — Democrats just haven’t been likable, he told Playbook. That much is still evident in the latest AP-NORC polling that shows positivity hasn’t bounced back in parts of the party compared to 2024. It was creators like Espina who started sounding alarms within the party back in 2021 that Latino voters were souring on the Biden administration’s immigration agenda. The shift of voters toward Trump — especially in Texas, where Espina lives — was something he saw coming for years. But these Latinos aren’t “permanent Trump voters,” as Espina put it, and can be reached through a more community-focused approach to politicking. Latinos especially are among the biggest consumers of social media like TikTok. “It’s very interesting how I’ve been able to break into a very non-political crowd,” Espina said. “My audience is not watching MS NOW. They’re not watching CNN.” The idea is a creator like Espina works with candidates to encourage early voting, to promote their message in Spanish and raise visibility across platforms like TikTok, Instagram and YouTube. The influencers can then provide feedback to the party about what their followers say actually matters to them. “It’s in the very early stages, but I think it’s a great step in the right direction,” he said. The program’s aim is to lock in voters ahead of the general election, rather than waiting until crunch time in the fall when candidates start releasing Spanish ads. “Whatever votes turn out, you’re banking those votes for Election Day,” Rep. Jimmy Gomez (D-Calif.), one of the leaders at BOLD PAC, told Playbook. “It’s great that they’re doing this, because in order to win, we got to go where the voters are at.” Republicans are also doubling down on their own push to keep Latino voters in their corner come Election Day, a Republican strategist, granted anonymity to discuss party strategy, told Playbook. “Do I think it changes anything?” they said of Democrats’ social media approach, “no, absolutely not.” Just one day into early voting, there’s early signs that Democrats’ activation strategy may be paying off: the early vote among Latinos yesterday was 8 points higher than the first day of early voting in the last election cycle, BOLD PAC told Playbook. That’s just in Texas’ 29th District, where the PAC held its kickoff event and where Espina has been flooding the zone with early-voting posts. “I think you’re going to see record numbers,” Rep. Sylvia Garcia, who represents and is running for reelection in the redrawn 29th District, told Playbook. “I know that it’s going to make a difference in my race.” AND IN SOUTH TEXAS: POLITICO’s Andrew Howard has a must-read on Tejano star Bobby Pulido , who was a top recruit for Democrats this cycle in Texas’ 15th District but is staring down a messy primary battle against ER doctor Ada Cuellar that has gotten increasingly personal. “We’re actually vetting the candidate,” Cuellar told Andrew. “The DCCC clearly didn’t vet him at all.” Pulido’s campaign, meanwhile, says it’s keeping the powder dry. “It’s become personal one way only,” Pulido said. “I haven’t responded. We’ve been really focused on talking to voters.”
Original Article: AP Latinos Democrats recruit popular content creators in new strategy to win back Latino voters By MATT BROWN | February 18, 2026 DOWN IN THE LONE STAR STATE: You may not have heard of Carlos Eduardo Espina . But there’s about 14 million people across the U.S. who follow the Uruguayan-American’s Spanish content on TikTok, almost religiously. And it’s influencers like him that are forming the bedrock of the Democratic Party’s latest bet to win back Latino voters going into the midterms. With the primary in Texas already underway, BOLD PAC, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus’ campaign arm, kicked off a new digital-first strategy called RUIDO aimed at mobilizing Latino content creators — about 50, to start — to reach voters and get them to turn out for Democrats. It’s a new approach for a coalition of voters that has historically had abysmal turnout in off-year elections, and who often never interact with a candidate in local races or receive traditional outreach. “I think Democrats quickly realized, we need to reach this new set and this new demographic, or this changing demographic, of people so we can understand what they’re feeling, what they’re thinking,” Espina told your author. And doing so could mean a “new brand of the Democratic Party.” Democrats think they have an opening with Latinos as polling increasingly shows frustration with Trump’s immigration agenda and with the cost of living. But there’s another problem that influencers like Espina are hoping they can help with — Democrats just haven’t been likable, he told Playbook. That much is still evident in the latest AP-NORC polling that shows positivity hasn’t bounced back in parts of the party compared to 2024. It was creators like Espina who started sounding alarms within the party back in 2021 that Latino voters were souring on the Biden administration’s immigration agenda. The shift of voters toward Trump — especially in Texas, where Espina lives — was something he saw coming for years. But these Latinos aren’t “permanent Trump voters,” as Espina put it, and can be reached through a more community-focused approach to politicking. Latinos especially are among the biggest consumers of social media like TikTok. “It’s very interesting how I’ve been able to break into a very non-political crowd,” Espina said. “My audience is not watching MS NOW. They’re not watching CNN.” The idea is a creator like Espina works with candidates to encourage early voting, to promote their message in Spanish and raise visibility across platforms like TikTok, Instagram and YouTube. The influencers can then provide feedback to the party about what their followers say actually matters to them. “It’s in the very early stages, but I think it’s a great step in the right direction,” he said. The program’s aim is to lock in voters ahead of the general election, rather than waiting until crunch time in the fall when candidates start releasing Spanish ads. “Whatever votes turn out, you’re banking those votes for Election Day,” Rep. Jimmy Gomez (D-Calif.), one of the leaders at BOLD PAC, told Playbook. “It’s great that they’re doing this, because in order to win, we got to go where the voters are at.” Republicans are also doubling down on their own push to keep Latino voters in their corner come Election Day, a Republican strategist, granted anonymity to discuss party strategy, told Playbook. “Do I think it changes anything?” they said of Democrats’ social media approach, “no, absolutely not.” Just one day into early voting, there’s early signs that Democrats’ activation strategy may be paying off: the early vote among Latinos yesterday was 8 points higher than the first day of early voting in the last election cycle, BOLD PAC told Playbook. That’s just in Texas’ 29th District, where the PAC held its kickoff event and where Espina has been flooding the zone with early-voting posts. “I think you’re going to see record numbers,” Rep. Sylvia Garcia, who represents and is running for reelection in the redrawn 29th District, told Playbook. “I know that it’s going to make a difference in my race.” AND IN SOUTH TEXAS: POLITICO’s Andrew Howard has a must-read on Tejano star Bobby Pulido , who was a top recruit for Democrats this cycle in Texas’ 15th District but is staring down a messy primary battle against ER doctor Ada Cuellar that has gotten increasingly personal. “We’re actually vetting the candidate,” Cuellar told Andrew. “The DCCC clearly didn’t vet him at all.” Pulido’s campaign, meanwhile, says it’s keeping the powder dry. “It’s become personal one way only,” Pulido said. “I haven’t responded. We’ve been really focused on talking to voters.”
Original Article: MORNING JOE 02/18/2026 New outreach launches to engage Latino voters via social media The Congressional Hispanic Caucus this week launched 'Ruido,' a new outreach to Latino voters. Rep. Linda Sánchez , D-Calif., joins Morning Joe to discuss. Full clip here .
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 18, 2026 Contact: valeria@chcboldpac.com CHC BOLD PAC Launches RUIDO: First-of-Its-Kind Digital Organizing Program to Mobilize Latino Voters Through Social Media Creators Program kicks off in Houston with Members of Congress, community leaders, and local creators as Hispanic Democrats respond to the Latino voter shift with an innovative digital organizing strategy HOUSTON, TX – CHC BOLD PAC, the campaign arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, launched RUIDO , a groundbreaking digital organizing program that mobilizes Latino and Latina social media creators to energize voters through authentic, community-driven content. RUIDO energizes Latinos to vote early–aiming to turn early voting into a cultural norm– and kicks off on one of the first days of early voting for the midterms nationwide. The Houston launch event, held in the city’s North Side, featured RUIDO Co-Chair Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Houston Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Carlos Espina, and 9 Houston-based Latino creators with a combined social media reach of hundreds of thousands. Texas state legislators, including Senator Carol Alvarado, and Reps. Christina Morales, Penny Morales-Shaw, Armando Walle, and Mary Ann Perez also joined the launch. “After 2024, Democrats can’t keep doing the same thing and expect different results,” said CHC BOLD PAC Chairwoman Linda T. Sánchez. “RUIDO meets Latino voters where they are—on their phones and through trusted voices in their communities. Rather than waiting until a few weeks before a general election, it starts the conversation with Latino voters early, building excitement and turning early voting into a cultural norm starting in primaries.” RUIDO, Spanish for “noise,” flips the traditional campaign playbook. Rather than treating social media as just another advertising channel, the program builds grassroots digital-organizing infrastructure by recruiting Latino influencers to serve as online community organizers. Creators receive strategic messaging guidance and use their unique voices and perspectives to talk to their audiences about why voting early matters. RUIDO is led by program Co-Chairs Representatives Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), and Delia Ramirez (IL-03) , who are working to expand Latino voter engagement through innovative, culturally competent organizing strategies. Latino content creators are encouraged to apply to join RUIDO’s cohort by signing up at www.boldpac.com/RUIDO . “We know that Latino voters who participate in primaries and vote early are far more likely to show up again in the general election and vote early,” said RUIDO Co-Chair Congressman Jimmy Gomez. “Early voting becomes a habit, and habits build momentum. When someone posts that they voted early, that’s more than just content—it’s social proof that encourages their friends and followers to do the same.” “Our generation gets it—the most powerful organizing tool is someone your community already trusts. RUIDO is built on something I've seen firsthand: when young Latinos see someone who looks like them, and talks like them, and says 'I voted early,' it hits differently than any ad ever could. This program isn't about messaging at people—it's about building a movement with them, one post, one story, one conversation at a time,” said RUIDO Co-Chair Congressman Maxwell Frost. “In communities like mine, voting is a way in which we can protect our families and fight for the resources our neighborhoods deserve. But too often, campaigns only show up in October asking Latinos for their vote. RUIDO changes that. By partnering with creators who are already part of the fabric of our communities, we're making sure Latino voters aren't an afterthought—they're an essential part of the strategy. Early voting starts with trust, and trust starts with showing up early,” said RUIDO Co-Chair Congresswoman Delia Ramirez. The program operates in two phases. The first phase, this spring, focuses on building early voting habits during the primary season through creator-driven content and early vote launch events in competitive congressional districts. The second phase, after the primaries, will expand the network to drive general election turnout by leveraging early primary voters to post to social media. Research from Equis Research shows that Latinos and Latinas are most likely to get news and information from Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok—platforms where traditional campaign tactics don’t reach. Pew Research confirms that Hispanic and Latino Americans are more likely than white Americans to regularly get news from YouTube, Instagram, and WhatsApp. Latino voters are now the nation’s second-largest voting bloc, with 36.2 million eligible voters, but early-voting rates consistently lag behind those of other demographics. “The path to flipping the House in 2026 runs through Latino communities,” said Chairwoman Sánchez . “Boosting turnout in competitive districts is not optional—it’s essential to win back power for the people and hold Trump and his administration accountable.” ### CHC BOLD PAC, el brazo de campaña del Caucus Hispano del Congreso, se fundó en 2001 con el objetivo de aumentar la representación latina en el Congreso. Desde su fundación, BOLD PAC ha duplicado con creces el tamaño del Caucus Hispano del Congreso.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 3, 2026 Contact: valeria@chcboldpac.com CHC BOLD PAC Endorses Sen. Ben Ray Luján for Re-election to the U.S. Senate from New Mexico WASHINGTON, D.C. – CHC BOLD PAC, the campaign arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, proudly announces its endorsement of Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) for re-election to the United States Senate from New Mexico. “While MAGA Republicans continue pushing policies that raise costs for working families, Ben has focused on lowering health care costs, expanding access to care, and delivering real investments to rural and underserved communities across New Mexico,” said CHC BOLD PAC Chairwoman Linda Sánchez. “He understands that families shouldn’t have to choose between paying for medicine, putting food on the table, or keeping the lights on. His leadership is rooted in listening to his communities and fighting every day to make life more affordable for New Mexicans.” Senator Ben Ray Luján , honored to receive CHC BOLD PAC’s support, said, “Across New Mexico, from our small towns to rural communities, families face real challenges every day. I will continue standing up for working families, protecting our sacred lands and natural resources, expanding access to health care, and building an economy that works for everyone. My mission is simple: to make sure every New Mexican has the opportunity to thrive, no matter where they live.” Ben Ray Luján, who was first elected to the Senate from New Mexico in 2020, became the first Hispanic to represent the state in the Senate in over four decades. He has dedicated his career to expanding access to quality health care, championing the needs of rural New Mexicans, protecting sacred lands and natural resources, building a clean energy economy, and creating good-paying jobs that strengthen families and communities across the state. CHC BOLD PAC stands with Senator Ben Ray Luján in his re-election so that he can continue delivering results for New Mexican families and defend critical progress for communities across the country. ### CHC BOLD PAC, the campaign arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, was founded in 2001 to increase Latino representation in Congress. Since its founding, BOLD PAC has more than doubled the size of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. *** PARA DISTRIBUCIÓN INMEDIATA: 03 de febrero 2026 Contacto: valeria@chcboldpac.com CHC BOLD PAC Respalda la reelección del Senador Ben Ray Luján para el Senado de los Estados Unidos por Nuevo México WASHINGTON, D.C. — CHC BOLD PAC, el brazo político del Congressional Hispanic Caucus, está orgulloso de anunciar el respaldo a la reelección del Senador Ben Ray Luján en Nuevo México. “Mientras los republicanos MAGA siguen impulsando políticas que suben los costos para las familias trabajadoras, Ben se ha enfocado en bajar los precios de la salud, dar más acceso a los servicios médicos y llevar inversiones reales a las comunidades rurales y olvidadas de todo Nuevo México,” dijo la presidenta de CHC BOLD PAC, Linda Sánchez. “Él entiende que las familias no deberían tener que elegir entre pagar medicamentos, poner comida en la mesa o mantener las luces encendidas. Su liderazgo se basa en escuchar a sus comunidades y luchar cada día para hacer la vida más asequible para los nuevo mexicanos.” El senador Ben Ray Luján , honrado por recibir el apoyo de CHC BOLD PAC, declaró: “En todo Nuevo México, desde nuestros pueblos pequeños hasta las comunidades rurales, las familias enfrentan desafíos reales todos los días. Seguiré defendiendo a las familias trabajadoras, protegiendo nuestras tierras sagradas y recursos naturales, ampliando el acceso a la atención médica y construyendo una economía que funcione para todos. Mi misión es sencilla: asegurar que cada nuevo mexicano tenga la oportunidad de prosperar, sin importar dónde viva.” Ben Ray Luján, quien fue elegido por primera vez al Senado por Nuevo México en 2020, se convirtió en el primer hispano en representar al estado en más de cuatro décadas. Ha dedicado su carrera a ampliar el acceso a atención médica de calidad, defender las necesidades de los nuevo mexicanos rurales, proteger las tierras sagradas y los recursos naturales, impulsar una economía de energía limpia y crear empleos bien remunerados que fortalezcan a las familias y comunidades de todo el estado. CHC BOLD PAC apoya al senador Ben Ray Luján para que pueda seguir logrando resultados reales para las familias de Nuevo México y defendiendo los avances críticos de las comunidades en todo el país. ### CHC BOLD PAC, el brazo de campaña del Caucus Hispano del Congreso, se fundó en 2001 con el objetivo de aumentar la representación latina en el Congreso. Desde su fundación, BOLD PAC ha duplicado con creces el tamaño del Caucus Hispano del Congreso.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 26, 2026 Contact: valeria@chcboldpac.com CHC BOLD PAC Endorses Ammar Campa-Najjar for Congress in California's 48th Congressional District WASHINGTON, D.C. – CHC BOLD PAC, the campaign arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, proudly announces its endorsement of Ammar Campa-Najjar (CA-48) for Congress, in a district that is 32% Latino. “CHC BOLD PAC is proud to endorse Ammar Campa-Najjar for Congress in CA-48. As our nation faces unprecedented attacks on our basic freedoms, there has never been a more important time to elect leaders who will stand up for and defend our values, said CHC BOLD PAC Chairwoman Linda Sánchez. “Ammar understands the struggles facing families, especially the Latino community, because he is also living it—from rising costs to the destabilizing impact of ICE terrorizing our neighborhoods. We are confident that Ammar will provide the integrity and leadership that CA-48 deserves rather than the complacency and obstruction that have defined Darrell Issa’s tenure.” “I’m honored to receive the endorsement of BOLD PAC at such a defining moment for our country,” said Campa-Najjar. “As a Latino and US Navy officer, I understand that representation right now is not symbolic; it is essential. Families in CA-48 are facing real challenges, and this district deserves leadership that understands our neighborhoods and shares our values. We need leaders who are prepared to stand up to both chaos and complacency. I’m running to bring steady, accountable leadership to Congress, focused on lowering costs, protecting civil rights, and ensuring our community has a strong voice that works for them every single day.” Born and raised in San Diego by his single mother, Ammar started working at 16 as a janitor at his local church, learning early the dignity of hard work and service. CHC BOLD PAC stands proudly with Ammar Campa-Najjar as he fights to lower costs, expand healthcare, support veterans, and defend democracy for California’s 48th District, where Latinos will make the difference in this upcoming election. ### CHC BOLD PAC, the campaign arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, was founded in 2001 to increase Latino representation in Congress. Since its founding, BOLD PAC has more than doubled the size of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. *** PARA DISTRIBUCIÓN INMEDIATA: 26 de febrero 2026 Contacto: valeria@chcboldpac.com BOLD PAC respalda a Ammar Campa‑Najjar para el Congreso en el 48.º Distrito Congresional de California WASHINGTON, D.C. — CHC BOLD PAC, el brazo de campaña del Caucus Hispano del Congreso, se enorgullece de anunciar su respaldo a Ammar Campa‑Najjar (CA-48) para el Congreso en un distrito que es 32 por ciento Latino. “CHC BOLD PAC se enorgullece de respaldar a Ammar Campa-Najjar para el Congreso en el distrito CA-48. Mientras nuestra nación enfrenta ataques sin precedentes a nuestras libertades fundamentales, nunca ha habido un momento más importante para elegir líderes que defiendan nuestros valores”, dijo la presidenta de CHC BOLD PAC, Linda Sánchez. “Ammar comprende las dificultades que enfrentan las familias, especialmente la comunidad latina, porque él también las vive: desde el aumento de los costos hasta el impacto desestabilizador de ICE que aterroriza nuestras comunidades. Estamos seguros de que Ammar brindará la integridad y el liderazgo que CA-48 merece, en lugar de la complacencia y la obstrucción que han definido la gestión de Darrell Issa”. “Me siento honrado de recibir el respaldo de BOLD PAC en un momento tan definitorio para nuestro país”, dijo Campa-Najjar. “Como latino y oficial de la Marina de EE. UU., entiendo que la representación en este momento no es simbólica, es esencial. Las familias en CA-48 enfrentan desafíos reales, y este distrito merece un liderazgo que comprenda nuestros vecindarios y comparta nuestros valores. Necesitamos líderes que estén preparados para enfrentar tanto el caos como la complacencia. Me postulo para llevar un liderazgo constante y responsable al Congreso, enfocado en reducir los costos, proteger los derechos civiles y asegurar que nuestra comunidad tenga una voz fuerte que trabaje para ellos todos los días”. Nacido y criado en San Diego por su madre soltera, Ammar comenzó a trabajar a los 16 años como conserje en su iglesia local, aprendiendo desde temprano la dignidad del trabajo duro y del servicio. CHC BOLD PAC se enorgullece de apoyar a Ammar Campa-Najjar mientras lucha por reducir costos, ampliar la atención médica, apoyar a los veteranos y defender la democracia en el 48.º Distrito de California, donde los latinos marcarán la diferencia en estas próximas elecciones. ### CHC BOLD PAC, el brazo de campaña del Caucus Hispano del Congreso, se fundó en 2001 con el objetivo de aumentar la representación latina en el Congreso. Desde su fundación, BOLD PAC ha duplicado con creces el tamaño del Caucus Hispano del Congreso.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 24, 2026 Contact: valeria@chcboldpac.com BOLD PAC Endorses Endorses Analilia Mejía for Congress in New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District WASHINGTON, D.C. – CHC BOLD PAC, the campaign arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, proudly announces its endorsement of Analilia Mejía (NJ-11) for Congress in Glen Ridge, New Jersey. “Analilia Mejía is a fierce advocate who has spent her life organizing, fighting, and delivering for working families,” said CHC BOLD PAC Chairwoman Linda Sánchez. “From leading the fight for a $15 dollar minimum wage and paid sick leave to serving in the Department of Labor, Analilia understands that the government must work for the people, not corporations. She brings the lived experience, the grassroots leadership, and the relentless determination we need in Congress.” “As a mom and the daughter of Colombian and Dominican immigrants, I know what it means to struggle and to fight for opportunity,” said Analilia Mejía. “I’m running for Congress because working families deserve a government that stands with them, whether that means better wages, affordable healthcare, or the freedom to thrive in our communities. New Jersey families are strong and resilient. They deserve leadership that matches that strength.” For Analilia, this fight is deeply personal. Born and raised in New Jersey, she grew up watching her mother work multiple jobs just to keep food on the table. When her mother secured a union job, it changed the trajectory of their family’s life and showed Analilia the power of collective action. That experience inspired her to become a union organizer and later to lead transformative campaigns for economic justice as Director of the New Jersey Working Families Alliance. CHC BOLD PAC stands proudly with Analilia Mejía as she brings her lifelong fight for economic justice and dignity for working families to Congress. Her experience, passion, and unwavering commitment make her exactly the kind of leader New Jersey and our nation need at this critical moment. ### CHC BOLD PAC, the campaign arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, was founded in 2001 to increase Latino representation in Congress. Since its founding, BOLD PAC has more than doubled the size of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. *** PARA DISTRIBUCIÓN INMEDIATA: 24 de febrero 2026 Contacto: valeria@chcboldpac.com BOLD PAC respalda a Analilia Mejía para el Congreso en el 11.º Distrito Congresional de Nueva Jersey WASHINGTON, D.C. — CHC BOLD PAC, el brazo político del Caucus Hispano del Congreso, se enorgullece de anunciar su respaldo a Analilia Mejía (NJ-11) para el Congreso en Glen Ridge, Nueva Jersey. “Analilia Mejía es una defensora incansable que ha dedicado su vida a organizar, luchar y cumplir para las familias trabajadoras”, dijo Linda Sánchez, presidenta de CHC BOLD PAC. “Desde liderar la lucha por un salario mínimo de 15 dólares y días pagados por enfermedad hasta servir en el Departamento de Trabajo, Analilia entiende que el gobierno debe trabajar para la gente, no para las corporaciones. Aporta experiencia propia, liderazgo comunitario y la determinación firme que necesitamos en el Congreso.” Analilia Mejía, agradecida por el respaldo, expresó: “Como madre e hija de inmigrantes colombianos y dominicanos, sé lo que significa luchar por una oportunidad. Me postulo para el Congreso porque las familias trabajadoras merecen un gobierno que esté de su lado, ya sea para lograr mejores salarios, atención médica accesible o la libertad de salir adelante en nuestras comunidades. Las familias de Nueva Jersey son fuertes y resilientes. Merecen un liderazgo que esté a su altura.” Para Analilia, esta lucha es profundamente personal. Nacida y criada en Nueva Jersey, creció viendo a su madre trabajar en múltiples empleos para poner comida en la mesa. Cuando su madre consiguió un trabajo sindicalizado, la vida de su familia cambió por completo y Analilia aprendió el poder de la acción colectiva. Esa experiencia la inspiró a convertirse en organizadora sindical y, más adelante, a liderar importantes campañas por la justicia económica como directora de la New Jersey Working Families Alliance. CHC BOLD PAC apoya con orgullo a Analilia Mejía mientras lleva su lucha de toda la vida por la justicia económica y la dignidad de las familias trabajadoras al Congreso. Su experiencia, pasión y compromiso inquebrantable la convierten en la líder que Nueva Jersey y nuestra nación necesitan en este momento decisivo. ### CHC BOLD PAC, el brazo de campaña del Caucus Hispano del Congreso, se fundó en 2001 con el objetivo de aumentar la representación latina en el Congreso. Desde su fundación, BOLD PAC ha duplicado con creces el tamaño del Caucus Hispano del Congreso.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 13, 2026 Contact: valeria@chcboldpac.com BOLD PAC Endorses Rep. Rob Menendez for Re-Election in New Jersey’s 8th Congressional District WASHINGTON, D.C. – BOLD PAC, the campaign arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, today announced its endorsement of Congressman Rob Menendez for re-election in New Jersey’s 8th Congressional District. “BOLD PAC is offering our full support for Rob Menendez because he’s not only a proven champion for Latino communities, but the future of Latino leadership,” said CHC BOLD PAC Chairwoman Linda Sánchez. “Re-electing Rob is a top priority for BOLD PAC. He’s a proven champion for Latino communities and has led efforts to push back on Trump’s extreme immigration agenda. We are fully committed and ready to support his campaign.” Menendez, one of New Jersey’s Latino Members of Congress, currently represents a Hispanic-majority district centered in Hudson County. Since first being elected in 2022, he has served as a powerful voice in Congress for Latinos and working families. Menendez has stood up to Republican attacks on health care and fought for real solutions to the affordability crisis facing everyday New Jerseyans. A rising national leader, Menendez has also secured investments in public transit, expanded child care options, and defended programs like Medicare and Social Security from MAGA efforts to gut them. He has invested substantially in expanding Latino representation in Congress, and his work will be critical to flipping the House this November. His leadership supports and empowers Latino candidates, backs Democratic campaigns nationwide, and fights for the issues that matter most to our communities. ### CHC BOLD PAC, the campaign arm of the Hispanic Caucus, was founded in 2001 to increase Latino representation in Congress. Since its founding, BOLD PAC has more than doubled the size of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. *** PARA DISTRIBUCIÓN INMEDIATA: 13 de enero 2026 Contacto: valeria@chcboldpac.com BOLD PAC respalda al congresista Rob Menendez para su reelección en el octavo distrito congresional de Nueva Jersey WASHINGTON, D.C. — BOLD PAC, el brazo de campaña del Caucus Hispano del Congreso, anunció hoy su respaldo al congresista Rob Menendez para su reelección en el octavo distrito congresional de Nueva Jersey. “BOLD PAC le brinda todo su apoyo a Rob Menendez porque no solo es un defensor demostrado de las comunidades latinas, sino también el futuro del liderazgo latino,” afirmó Linda Sánchez, presidenta de CHC BOLD PAC . “La reelección de Rob es una prioridad máxima para BOLD PAC. Es un defensor demostrado de las comunidades latinas y ha liderado los esfuerzos para contrarrestar la agenda migratoria extremista de Trump. Estamos totalmente comprometidos y preparados para apoyar su campaña.” Menendez, uno de los miembros latinos de la delegación de Nueva Jersey en el Congreso, actualmente representa un distrito de mayoría hispana centrado en el condado de Hudson. Desde su primera elección en 2022, ha sido una voz poderosa en el Congreso para los latinos y las familias trabajadoras. Menéndez ha hecho frente a los ataques republicanos a la sanidad y ha luchado por encontrar soluciones reales a la crisis de asequibilidad a la que se enfrentan los habitantes de Nueva Jersey. Menendez, un líder nacional en ascenso, también ha conseguido inversiones en transporte público, ha ampliado las opciones de cuidado infantil y ha defendido programas como Medicare y la Seguridad Social de los intentos de MAGA de acabar con ellos. Ha invertido mucho en aumentar la representación latina en el Congreso, y su trabajo será clave para cambiar el rumbo de la Cámara de Representantes este noviembre. Su liderazgo apoya y empodera a los candidatos latinos, respalda las campañas demócratas en todo el país y lucha por las cuestiones que más importan a nuestras comunidades. ### CHC BOLD PAC, el brazo de campaña del Caucus Hispano, se fundó en 2001 con el objetivo de aumentar la representación latina en el Congreso. Desde su fundación, BOLD PAC ha duplicado con creces el tamaño del Caucus Hispano del Congreso.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 12, 2026 Contact: valeria@chcboldpac.com BOLD PAC Chairwoman Sánchez: Americans Will Hold Trump Administration Accountable for Deadly Immigration Enforcement WASHINGTON, D.C. — Chairwoman Linda Sánchez of BOLD PAC issued the following statement today in response to the fatal shooting of U.S. citizen Renée Nicole Good by a federal ICE agent in Minneapolis and the wounding of two people by a U.S. Border Patrol agent in Portland, Oregon. “We are appalled by the killing of Renée Nicole Good, a mother and neighbor, by a federal immigration agent on Wednesday,” said Chairwoman Sánchez . “And we are equally horrified that, just one day later, two more people were wounded by a Border Patrol agent in Portland. These are real people, and Americans are suffering real loss at the hands of ICE.” Good, a 37-year-old U.S. citizen and mother of three, was killed by an ICE agent during a federal enforcement operation in Minneapolis, igniting local outrage and sustained protests. Video and eyewitness accounts have contradicted official federal accounts, and community leaders in Minneapolis have vocally condemned the shooting and the handling of the investigation. In Portland, a U.S. Border Patrol agent shot and injured Luis David Nico Moncada and Yorlenys Betzabeth Zambrano-Contreras on January 8 during a vehicle encounter, and the matter is under investigation by state authorities. “People do not want immigration enforcement that ends in death,” Chairwoman Sánchez continued. “They do not want secrecy, excuses, or spin. Americans are outraged and they will hold this administration accountable for policies that have turned deadly.” *** According to a data analysis by The Trace , reviewing public records and reporting, federal immigration agents (ICE, CBP) have been involved in at least 16 shooting incidents since July 2025, resulting in four deaths and at least seven injuries. Other deadly shootings tied to immigration enforcement include cases like a Border Patrol agent killing a man on December 11 and an off-duty ICE official fatally shooting someone on New Year’s Eve, all under the broader Trump enforcement campaign. In 2025, ICE reported 32 deaths in its detention facilities — the deadliest year in over two decades, involving individuals with medical issues and harsh conditions in overcrowded detention sites. Enforcement operations have also resulted in deaths beyond shootings, including a farmworker who died while attempting to evade ICE agents during a large-scale raid in Ventura County, California. Beyond fatal incidents, immigration agents have repeatedly used force during operations, including pointing guns at civilians and deploying tasers, rubber bullets, and pepper balls, raising alarm in communities across the country. ### CHC BOLD PAC, the campaign arm of the Hispanic Caucus, was founded in 2001 to increase Latino representation in Congress. Since its founding, BOLD PAC has more than doubled the size of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. *** PARA DISTRIBUCIÓN INMEDIATA: 12 de enero 2026 Contacto: valeria @chcboldpac.com La presidenta de BOLD PAC, Sanchez: Los estadounidenses responsabilizan a la administración Trump por la aplicación letal de las leyes de inmigración WASHINGTON, D.C. — La presidenta de BOLD PAC, Linda Sánchez, emitió hoy la siguiente declaración en respuesta al homicidio de la ciudadana estadounidense Renée Nicole Good a manos de un agente federal del ICE en Minneapolis y a las heridas causadas a dos personas por un agente de la Patrulla Fronteriza de los Estados Unidos en Portland, Oregon. “Estamos consternados por el asesinato de Renée Nicole Good, madre y vecina, a manos de un agente federal de inmigración el miércoles”, dijo la presidenta Sánchez . “Y nos horroriza igualmente que, solo un día después, otras dos personas resultaron heridas por un agente de la Patrulla Fronteriza en Portland. Se trata de personas reales, y los estadounidenses están sufriendo pérdidas reales a manos del ICE”. Good, una ciudadana estadounidense de 37 años y madre de tres hijos, fue asesinada por un agente del ICE durante una operación federal en Minneapolis, lo que desató la indignación local y protestas continuadas. Los vídeos y los testimonios de testigos oculares contradicen las versiones oficiales federales, y los líderes comunitarios de Minneapolis han condenado abiertamente el tiroteo y la gestión de la investigación. En Portland, un agente de la Patrulla Fronteriza de los Estados Unidos disparó e hirió a Luis David Nico Moncada y Yorlenys Betzabeth Zambrano-Contreras el 8 de enero durante un control de vehículos, y el asunto está siendo investigado por las autoridades estatales. “La gente no quiere que la aplicación de las leyes de inmigración acabe en muerte”, continuó la presidenta Sánchez. “No quieren secretismo, excusas ni manipulaciones. Los estadounidenses están indignados y harán responsable a esta administración de unas políticas que se han vuelto mortales”. Según un análisis de datos realizado por The Trace , tras revisar registros públicos e informes, los agentes federales de inmigración (ICE, CBP) han estado involucrados en al menos 16 tiroteos desde julio de 2025, que han causado cuatro muertos y al menos siete heridos. Otros tiroteos mortales relacionados con la aplicación de las leyes de inmigración incluyen casos como el de un agente de la Patrulla Fronteriza que mató a un hombre el 11 de diciembre y el de un funcionario del ICE fuera de servicio que disparó mortalmente a alguien en Nochevieja, todo ello en el marco de la amplia campaña de aplicación de la ley de Trump. En 2025, el ICE informó de 32 muertes en sus centros de detención, el año más mortífero en más de dos décadas, en el que se vieron involucradas personas con problemas médicos y condiciones duras en centros de detención superpoblados. Las operaciones de aplicación de la ley también han provocado muertes más allá de los tiroteos, incluyendo la de un trabajador agrícola que murió mientras intentaba evadir a los agentes del ICE durante una redada a gran escala en el condado de Ventura, California. Más allá de los incidentes mortales, los agentes de inmigración han recurrido repetidamente al uso de la fuerza durante las operaciones, incluyendo apuntar con armas a civiles y utilizar pistolas eléctricas, balas de goma y bolas de pimienta, lo que ha despertado la alarma en comunidades de todo el país. ### CHC BOLD PAC, el brazo de campaña del Caucus Hispano, se fundó en 2001 con el objetivo de aumentar la representación latina en el Congreso. Desde su fundación, BOLD PAC ha duplicado con creces el tamaño del Caucus Hispano del Congreso.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 18, 2025 Contact: valeria@chcboldpac.com CHC BOLD PAC Endorses Lisa Ramirez in CA-40 Ramirez Represents a Wave of Latinos Fighting Trump’s Immigration Overreach WASHINGTON, D.C. — CHC BOLD PAC, the campaign arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, proudly announces its endorsement of Lisa Ramirez for California’s 40th Congressional District. Ramirez represents the future of Democratic leadership: a future built on people over power, livable wages, and a place where the Constitution and rule of law ensure no one is above the law or legal system. “Democrats are ready to take back the House, and Lisa Ramirez will be a key part in CA-40,” said Chairwoman Linda Sánchez. “Lisa represents the best of our community–hard work, service, and a deep commitment to opportunity and justice. She’s the kind of leader who will fight for our values and flip this critical seat blue.” “I’m honored to have the support of CHC BOLD PAC as we fight to restore compassion, due process, and accountability in our immigration system. I’ve seen firsthand how Trump’s reckless deportation agenda has torn families apart—and like so many in our community, I refuse to stay silent,” said Lisa Ramirez. “In Congress, I’ll stand up to extremism and work to deliver real solutions that keep our families safe, united, and respected under the law.” Lisa Ramirez is an immigration attorney best known for helping free a detained migrant father of three U.S. Marine sons. The Administration’s lack of due process in their immigration rampage has motivated Ramirez to run and fight for her community. California’s 40th district is one of the top battlegrounds for Democrats in the path to reclaiming the House majority. With a fast-growing Latino population and a clear contrast between Lisa’s vision and the extremism of MAGA Republicans, this district is ready for change. ### CHC BOLD PAC, the campaign arm of the Hispanic Caucus, was founded in 2001 to increase Latino representation in Congress. Since its founding, BOLD PAC has more than doubled the size of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. *** PARA DISTRIBUCIÓN INMEDIATA: 18 de diciembre 2025 Contacto: valeria@chcboldpac.com CHC BOLD PAC respalda a Lisa Ramírez en CA-40 Ramírez representa una ola de latinos que luchan contra la extralimitación de Trump en materia de inmigració n WASHINGTON, D.C. — CHC BOLD PAC, el brazo de campaña del Caucus Hispano, se enorgullece de anunciar su respaldo a Lisa Ramírez para el 40.º distrito congresional de California. Ramírez representa el futuro del liderazgo demócrata: un futuro construido en las personas por encima del poder, en salarios dignos y en un lugar donde la Constitución y el estado de derecho garantizan que nadie esté por encima de la ley ni del sistema legal. “Los demócratas están listos para recuperar la Cámara de Representantes, y Lisa Ramírez será una pieza clave en el distrito CA-40”, afirmó la presidenta Linda Sánchez. “Lisa representa lo mejor de nuestra comunidad: trabajo duro, servicio y un profundo compromiso con la igualdad de oportunidades y la justicia. Es el tipo de líder que luchará por nuestros valores y conseguirá que este escaño tan importante pase a manos demócratas”. “Es un honor contar con el apoyo de CHC BOLD PAC en nuestra lucha por restaurar la compasión, el debido proceso y la responsabilidad en nuestro sistema de inmigración. He visto de primera mano cómo la imprudente agenda de deportaciones de Trump ha destrozado familias y, al igual que muchos en nuestra comunidad, me niego a permanecer en silencio”, afirmó Lisa Ramirez . “En el Congreso, me opondré al extremismo y trabajaré para ofrecer soluciones reales que mantengan a nuestras familias seguras, unidas y respetadas ante la ley”. Lisa Ramírez es una abogada especializada en inmigración conocida por ayudar a liberar a un padre migrante detenido con tres hijos marines estadounidenses. La falta de garantías procesales por parte de la Administración en su campaña contra la inmigración ha motivado a Ramírez a presentarse como candidata y luchar por su comunidad. El distrito 40.º de California es uno de los principales campos de batalla para los demócratas en su camino hacia la recuperación de la mayoría en la Cámara de Representantes. Con una población latina en rápido crecimiento y un claro contraste entre la visión de Lisa y el extremismo de los republicanos de MAGA, este distrito está listo para el cambio. ### CHC BOLD PAC, el brazo de campaña del Caucus Hispano, se fundó en 2001 con el objetivo de aumentar la representación latina en el Congreso. Desde su fundación, BOLD PAC ha duplicado con creces el tamaño del Caucus Hispano del Congreso.
