By challenging Rep. Doris Matsui, Mai Vang takes on Sacramento’s establishment | Opinion
In the election for California's 7th congressional district, voters will have a choice between Doris Matsui, who has represented Sacramento for 20 years in the House of Representatives, and Mai Vang, a candidate half Matsui’s age who represents the next generation of leaders in the state capital.
It will be the first real challenge Matsui has faced since she was first elected to Congress in 2005.
In a way, this race between the 80-year-old Matsui and 40-year-old Vang is predictable.
Last year, at a demonstration at the state Capitol, Matsui supporters gathered before a sign that asked a simple question, “Where’s Doris?”
The people demonstrating had been behind Matsui for years, but were telling her they were concerned about the excesses of President Donald Trump; they wanted to hear from her directly. She was invited, but didn’t show up.
Voters spoke on that day and shared a message to Matsui that they want a leader who is present and can protect their values. In a political climate of violence and oppression, people are looking for leaders who can bring them into a brighter future. When voters feel that way, incumbents get challenged.
Whether Vang can overcome Matsui’s name recognition and the likelihood that many of Sacramento’s political leaders will endorse Matsui remains to be seen. But Vang has demonstrated that she can energize a younger generation of voters. She hopes to be the candidate that can lead this community forward.
“I’m stepping into the ring to ensure that there’s another choice --the people’s choice-- on the ballot,” she said.
The Sacramento City Councilmember and community organizer surprised some by challenging Matsui. It’snot personal, she said
“I have deep gratitude for the Matsui family, who have served our region for over 47 years, but in this moment, we need leaders who can actually meet the moment. That means leaders who are clear on their stance on immigration, clear on their stance on healthcare, and is clear on how we use our tax dollars.”
Vang believes that undocumented immigrants should have a path to citizenship. She also wants working-class families of every background to have a fair shot at the pursuit of happiness.
The councilmember strikes the right balance between having respect for what Matsui has done for the people of this region but also understanding moment at hand.
“The America that we’re living in now is not the America that I want but it’s one that we have to confront,” she said.
Vang says that only a fraction of her council district is in the California 7th congressional district, a challenge she welcomes.
And it’s not the only obstacle that she will face during this campaign.
The people v. the establishment
Vang is running against the local political establishment..
Even before Vang officially announced on Tuesday, Elk Grove Mayor Bobbie Singh-Allen, Sacramento Mayor Kevin McCarty and West Sacramento Mayor Martha Guerrero all endorsed Matsui. It’s an indicator that the establishment worries that what people want will usurp their political construct.
“Change is not easy and I can understand why the local establishment is surrounding themselves around (Matsui),” Vang said. “We’re living in dangerous times and the status quo politics isn’t going to protect our families or loved ones. I believe the establishments have created the conditions we see today.”
It’s also important to see Vang more than a progressive liberal. She has been an advocate for her community both as an organizer and councilwoman. She doesn’t just hold the title of a leftist, but as someone who sees what people need.
“We need a fighter for this region,” Vang said. “If having a roof over your head and food on the table is progress then yes, I’m progressive because I want to see change, I want to progress for our community.”
Vang’s decision to run does create a “people vs. establishment” storyline in the race, but she also just wants to make sure people in this community know they have a valued place in America.
“When you come from a place of love and belonging, then you’re willing to hear the other person and understand their experience,” Vang said. “I’m really looking forward to the campaign trail to listen to people’s hopes and dreams, but also their concerns about where the country is going. I want to be a part of writing that chapter of American History of belonging in this country and what that looks like.”
The formal endorsement of candidates will come later, but that this race provides a choice for voters, particularly younger voters, is something to celebrate.
“The people are ready. The people are ready for change,” Vang said.
