Ashby Backs Vang in Surprise Endorsement as Challenge to Matsui Intensifies
The endorsement is surprising given that Ashby is considered a moderate Democrat while Vang is a self-proclaimed progressive
In what is considered a surprising move, today State Senator Angelique Ashby endorsed Mai Vang, who is challenging fellow Democrat Rep. Doris Matsui for California's 7th Congressional District. The endorsement was announced in an Instagram video (see below) featuring Ashby and Vang in front of the State Capitol.
The endorsement is surprising given that Ashby is considered a moderate Democrat while Vang is a self-proclaimed progressive. Ashby, who was elected to the State Senate in 2022, served with Vang, who was elected to the Sacramento City Council in 2020 for two years.
Ashby's endorsement is the highest-ranking elected official in the Sacramento region to endorse Vang's challenge to Matsui, who has represented the Sacramento region for 21 years. Vang's challenge was not welcomed by the regional establishment Democratic elected officials, who have uniformly endorsed Matsui.
In her announcement, Ashby echoed one of Vang's campaign focuses: the time has come for a generational change among Democratic representatives in Washington, D.C.
"If there were ever a moment for a new generation to step in and lead this city, this is it," Ashby said.
The endorsement comes after Vang faced criticism over Memorial Day weekend for her stance on the Pledge of Allegiance during government meetings. Vang was widely criticized on social media by many conservatives, but the controversy does not appear to have gained much traction.
