Bakersfield, California —
Even when he was a child, healthcare was top of mind for Humberto Rico.
Like many children who grew up in the Central Valley — known for having some of the worst air quality in the country — he had asthma that would sometimes leave him bedridden for days. He still helps his immigrant parents schedule their doctors’ appointments. And he has family members who depend on Medicaid for health insurance.
“In the Central Valley, it’s not really something we have the privilege to ignore,” said Rico, a 26-year-old Bakersfield native who works with farm workers as an organizer.
Healthcare is also a key issue shaping his support in California’s 22nd Congressional District. Rico spent a recent Saturday afternoon canvassing for Randy Villegas, a pro-Medicare for All progressive and one of two Democrats seeking to unseat GOP Rep. David Valadao. State Assemblywoman Jasmeet Bains, who recently won the support of House Democrats’ campaign arm, is also running.
