Who Is Running in California Congressional District 10th in 2026?
Last updated: March 4, 2026
Mark Desaulnier
(Incumbent)Economy
HighMark DeSaulnier supports policies to improve the economy, lower inflation, and protect workers' rights, including supporting small businesses and addressing income inequality. As a member of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, he authored the Justice for Dislocated Workers Act, which mandates corporations contribute to a fund for workers affected by closures or relocations. He also champions legislation like the Jobs for a Carbon Free Transportation System Act to link environmental goals with economic opportunities.
Immigration
HighMark DeSaulnier voted against the FY26 Homeland Security Appropriations bill, which included funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). He also opposed the Laken Riley Act, stating it would go against foundational judicial principles of innocent until proven guilty. DeSaulnier is a sponsor of the Dream and Promise Act, advocating for a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers, TPS recipients, and DED beneficiaries. He has also spoken out against reopening the FCI Dublin facility for immigration detention, citing concerns over unsafe conditions and community impact.
Healthcare
HighCongressman Mark DeSaulnier voted against H.R. 5371, stating it would harm healthcare and the wellbeing of his constituents, and opposed a Republican budget that proposed cutting Medicaid. He advocates for lowering healthcare costs and protecting access to care. He has engaged with healthcare providers to discuss extending ACA tax credits to reduce premium costs for families.
Republican Candidate
No Republican candidate has been confirmed for this race yet. Check back after the primary.
| Issue | Mark Desaulnier |
|---|---|
| Economy | Mark DeSaulnier supports policies to improve the economy, lower inflation, and protect workers' rights, including supporting small businesses and addressing income inequality. As a member of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, he authored the Justice for Dislocated Workers Act, which mandates corporations contribute to a fund for workers affected by closures or relocations. He also champions legislation like the Jobs for a Carbon Free Transportation System Act to link environmental goals with economic opportunities. High |
| Immigration | Mark DeSaulnier voted against the FY26 Homeland Security Appropriations bill, which included funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). He also opposed the Laken Riley Act, stating it would go against foundational judicial principles of innocent until proven guilty. DeSaulnier is a sponsor of the Dream and Promise Act, advocating for a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers, TPS recipients, and DED beneficiaries. He has also spoken out against reopening the FCI Dublin facility for immigration detention, citing concerns over unsafe conditions and community impact. High |
| Healthcare | Congressman Mark DeSaulnier voted against H.R. 5371, stating it would harm healthcare and the wellbeing of his constituents, and opposed a Republican budget that proposed cutting Medicaid. He advocates for lowering healthcare costs and protecting access to care. He has engaged with healthcare providers to discuss extending ACA tax credits to reduce premium costs for families. High |
| Climate & Energy | Mark DeSaulnier holds a strong pro-environment position, evidenced by a 100% score from the League of Conservation Voters (LCV) in 2025 and a 100% lifetime LCV score. He has consistently voted in favor of environmental protection measures, including on issues like the Crude Oil Export Ban and against rolling back methane polluter fees. He authored bills such as the Jobs for a Carbon Free Transportation System Act and the Protecting Workers for a Clean Future Act. Medium |
| Abortion & Reproductive Rights | Mark DeSaulnier is a strong supporter of reproductive rights, demonstrated by his votes for the Women's Health Protection Act, the Right to Contraception Act, and the Ensuring Women’s Right to Reproductive Freedom Act. He sponsors the Access to Family Building Act and opposes measures to restrict abortion access or defund Planned Parenthood. He advocates for enshrining equal rights for women in the Constitution. Medium |
| Foreign Policy | Mark Desaulnier voted against the FY26 Homeland Security Appropriations bill, which provided funding for the Department of Homeland Security and Immigration and Customs Enforcement. He cited concerns regarding "ICE agents’ violence and lawlessness," asserting that the institution needs accountability, beginning with a cut in funding. Additionally, he voted Nay on the "Made-in-America Defense Act" (HB4216) in the 119th Congress. High |
| Education | Mark DeSaulnier advocates for quality education from preschool through higher education, emphasizing accessible and affordable college opportunities for all students. He sponsored the College Affordability Act to reduce college costs and introduced the What You Can Do For Your Country Act to improve the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. These legislative efforts aim to make public service a more viable career option for individuals with student debt. He is a recommended candidate by Education Votes, an organization that supports pro-public education leaders. Medium |
| Gun Policy | Congressman Mark DeSaulnier supports gun violence prevention, including universal background checks, and authored the Gun Safety Board and Research Act (H.R. 4177, later H.R. 4882) to promote research and evidence-based solutions. He supported the Bipartisan Background Checks Act and the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act. He introduced bills like the Local Gun Violence Reduction Act (H.R. 4883) and the Advancing Gun Safety Technology Act (H.R. 4918) to improve gun safety and make communities safer. High |
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