Former House Republican flips central California seat

Republicans have picked up their 11th seat overall in the U.S. House and the third seat in California

Election 2020 House California (Copyright 2016 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistribu)

Republicans have picked up their 11th seat overall in the U.S. House and the third seat in California as Republican David Valadao reclaimed the seat he lost in the farm belt two years ago.

The former congressman defeated Democratic Rep. TJ Cox, who ousted Valadao in the 21st Congressional District two years ago by 862 votes.

Valadao endorsed President Donald Trump after withholding his backing in 2016 — a risk in a swing district the president lost by 15 points four years ago.

But he also stressed his independence, criticizing the Trump administration for family separations at the border and promoting his willingness to work across party lines.

Democrats hold a wide registration edge in the district, though California’s agricultural centers have long been known for Republican residents who vote reliably and Democrats who often do not.

Both candidates saw unfavorable publicity tied to their business interests.

In an online video posted this week, Valadao pledged to pass a coronavirus relief package and improve the health care system “so that everyone can get the care they need when they need it most.”