Democratic Rep. Dennis Cardoza doesn't appear to have many good options for running for reelection under the new congressional districts drawn by the Citizens Redistricting Commission.
With his current district split among neighboring seats, the five-term representative from Merced would likely have to face fellow Democratic Rep. Jim Costa or GOP Rep. Jeff Denham in a Republican-leaning district if he wants to seek another term in Congress.
Given the options, speculation that Cardoza will step down has been growing. His spokesperson didn't deny reports that he is considering retiring instead of running for reelection next year, according to The Modesto Bee.
The Bee sums up Cardoza's redistricting dilemma:
While Cardoza has cultivated backing for years in Stanislaus County, he likely would find an uphill battle for conservative voters with Denham, who is popular with tea party groups.
The draft southern district presents a stronger Democratic majority, more to Cardoza's liking. But seeking that seat would force him to fight it out with Costa in a region where Costa is well-known and Cardoza is not.
Costa could opt for another district. On Tuesday, he ignored Cardoza questions, saying simply, "The heart of Fresno has always been my political base, and that is where I intend to run when the lines are finalized."
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