HANFORD, Calif. — The moment Rep. David Valadao and nine other House Republicans voted to impeach then-President Donald Trump for inciting an insurrection at the Capitol, they were all engulfed in a wave of backlash — outraged conservatives back home, challengers eager to oust them, and Trump’s constant commentary casting doubt on their political futures.
These days, Valadao is distinctly not like the others, for one key reason: Trump has not said a word publicly against him or his reelection bid.
The 21st Congressional District is widely considered to be one of the country’s most competitive in the battle for control of the House this November. For Republicans, especially House GOP leader Kevin McCarthy of California, holding the seat is central to the goal of capturing a decisive majority. Democrats, eyeing their significant registration advantage in the district, see one of the few real chances to oust a GOP incumbent.
