Putting People First

West Sacramento Mayor Martha Guerrero has officially announced her candidacy for the open seat in California’s 6th Congressional District, entering the race with decades of public service experience and a clear people first vision shaped by her roots as a licensed social worker, legislative advocate, and community leader.

In a political moment when many voters feel disconnected from Washington, Guerrero’s message is grounded, direct, and deeply local. In this editorial interview, she shares why she is running for Congress, how her life experience informs her leadership, and what she believes the district needs right now.

Mayor Guerrero, you have served West Sacramento for many years. Why did you decide that now is the right time to run for Congress?

I am a proud mom and public servant with working class roots, and I have dedicated my career to identifying and filling gaps in services for people who need help the most. I have done that work as a licensed social worker, a legislative advocate, and as Mayor of West Sacramento.

Right now, the gaps between community needs and government action are growing wider. Decisions made in Congress directly impact working families, seniors, and small businesses here at home. I am running for Congress because too often Washington puts the wealthy and big corporations ahead of everyday people, and I believe it is time for leadership that truly puts people first.

Your professional background as a licensed social worker stands out. How has that shaped your approach to public service and leadership?

Social work teaches you to listen, to understand systems, and to focus on real solutions, not just good intentions. It is about accountability and compassion working together.

Throughout my career, whether advocating for education, social services, or aging programs, my focus has always been on delivering results that help people get ahead. That perspective has guided my work on commissions, on the city council, and as mayor, and it will continue to guide me if I am elected to Congress.

As Mayor of West Sacramento, what accomplishments best reflect your leadership style?

I am most proud of bringing people together to strengthen our city. We improved flood protection, supported local small business growth, expanded job opportunities, and increased transparency in government.

We also addressed homelessness by expanding access to services and transitional housing. These efforts required collaboration, persistence, and a willingness to tackle complex problems head on. That is the same approach I would bring to Congress.

The 6th Congressional District is newly drawn and considered Democratic leaning. What do you believe voters are looking for in their next representative?

People are looking for leadership that understands their daily realities. Families are facing rising costs, housing challenges, and uncertainty about essential services.

Voters want someone who has been in the community, who understands how policy decisions affect real lives, and who will fight to lower costs for working families while protecting critical programs. I believe my experience and values reflect what this district needs right now.

Your announcement comes at a time of strong political contrasts nationally. How does that shape your campaign message?

What happens in Congress matters deeply to local communities. When federal leadership prioritizes wealthy interests and cuts support programs, it is families, seniors, and vulnerable populations who pay the price.

My campaign is about pushing back against extreme cuts and overreach and advancing a people first agenda. I bring strong Democratic values and a problem solving mindset focused on outcomes, not ideology.

How would you describe the core philosophy of your campaign?

This is a people powered campaign grounded in community service.

I am running not for personal ambition, but because I believe government should work for everyone.

I bring working class roots, hands on leadership experience, and a deep commitment to delivering results. My goal is to represent this district with integrity, empathy, and effectiveness.

What message would you like to leave with voters as your campaign moves forward?

Local communities rely on what happens in Congress. The decisions made there shape education, healthcare, housing, and economic opportunity.

I am running to be a strong voice for working families, seniors, and small businesses. I will bring my experience, values, and dedication to Congress to put people first for a change.

As the campaign gains momentum, Guerrero emphasizes that this race is not only about a single candidate, but about building a coalition of people who believe in responsive government, economic fairness, and opportunity for all. She invites community members to take an active role in shaping the future of California’s 6th Congressional District by staying engaged, spreading the word, and participating in upcoming campaign events.

Supporters, partners, and community leaders are invited to support Martha Guerrero’s campaign for Congress.

Support the campaign by making a secure online contribution:
secure.actblue.com/donate/guerrero-0126

More info: www.marthaguerrero.com