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Christine Bish

RepublicanFirst-time candidate

Financial executive

Christine Bish ran for U.S. House California District 6 in 2026. This is their first run for office.

From the candidate’s public filings

Background

Chris Bish was born in Los Angeles, California.[1] She earned a high school diploma from Enterprise High School and attended Shasta College. Bish's career experience includes working as a realtor, a financial investigator, a skip tracer, and a bill collector. She is a former member of the Educational Freedom Initiative under Dr. Milton Friedman.[1][2][3]

She served as vice chair of the Oakmont High School Site Council and has been affiliated with:[1][4][3]

California Republican Party

Sacramento County Republican Party

California Republican Assembly

Yolo County Republican Party

Sacramento Republican Assembly

Republican Women Federated

Gun Owners of America

National Rifle Association

California Rifle and Pistol Association

Boy Scouts of America

National Association of Realtors

California Association of Realtors

Placer and Sacramento Association of Realtors

AFL-CIO

Sacramento County Employee's Union

High school:
Enterprise High School

Campaign money

Raised
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From individuals
$0
From PACs & party
$0
Own money
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FEC filings.

View on FEC.gov(opens in new tab)

In their own words

U.S. House California District 3

Christine Bish did not complete [the profile publisher]'s 2026 Candidate Connection survey.

U.S. House California District 6

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

My name is Christine Bish. I chose Sacramento County as the place to raise my family, build my business, and put down roots. As a mother and a small business owner in real estate, I understand the struggles families face every day. Rising costs are squeezing household budgets, crime is making our neighborhoods less safe, and too many of our schools are failing to prepare children for real careers and opportunities.

I am running for Congress because Washington has forgotten who it serves. My own family has lived the consequences of failed policies. I lost my daughter to fentanyl, and I will never stop fighting to secure the border and protect other families from this crisis.

My priorities are clear. I will work to restore safety in our communities, strengthen the economy for working families and small businesses, hold government accountable when it breaks the public trust, and give parents a stronger voice in their children’s education. I believe elected officials should be servants, not rulers, and that Sacramento deserves a representative who will fight for a safer, stronger future for everyone—Republicans, Democrats, and independents alike.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Public service, not politics. I am not running to be a ruler or a career politician. I am running to serve the people of Sacramento County, to listen, and to fight for the issues that matter most to our families.Rebuilding our local economy. Sacramento has been hit hard by business closures, layoffs, and the loss of major employers like Intel. When jobs disappear, families struggle, and our community loses stability. I will work to bring back opportunity, support small businesses, and create the conditions for new industries to thrive here at home.Community Safety

Families in Sacramento deserve to feel safe in their homes, schools, and neighborhoods. Right now, too many people feel like prisoners in their own communities because of rising crime, open drug use, and the spread of homelessness. We cannot have strong schools, thriving businesses, or healthy families without safety as the foundation. I will fight to get control of crime, stop the flow of fentanyl and dangerous drugs, and support solutions that restore public order. Every family should have the freedom to work, learn, and live in a community where they feel secure.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am passionate about restoring safety, accountability, and opportunity to our communities. My family has felt the pain of failed policies; I lost my daughter to fentanyl, and I will not stop fighting to secure our border and stop the flow of deadly drugs. I believe strong families and safe neighborhoods are the foundation for a thriving economy and good schools. I am committed to rebuilding Sacramento’s economy by supporting small businesses, keeping jobs here, and balancing growth with protecting the farmland and resources that sustain us. Parents, not bureaucrats, should guide their children’s education.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I cannot say there is one person I look up to above all others, but Margaret Thatcher made a lasting impression on me. She was an incredible woman who carried herself with both strength and grace. Her clarity of thought and her resolve in decision-making showed me what true leadership could look like. At the time of President Reagan’s shooting, she was the first woman I had seen on that kind of national stage, and the way she handled herself inspired me. It was not so much that I looked up to her as a role model, but rather that she influenced me by showing that women could lead with strength, dignity, and determination.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

I believe the most important qualities in an elected official are personability, empathy, and the ability to clearly communicate complex issues in a way that everyone can understand, no matter their background. Too often, we see representatives who are disconnected from everyday life and the struggles their constituents face. An effective leader must listen, relate to the people they serve, and remember what it means to be a citizen in the community. Public office is not about prestige or power; it is about service, honesty, and the responsibility to bridge the gap between government and the people it represents.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

One of the core responsibilities of an elected official is to stay connected to the community they represent. Too often, politicians go to Washington and spend more time with lobbyists than with the families and neighborhoods they serve. A representative’s duty is to listen, to understand the challenges at home, and to carry those voices into every decision. That responsibility lasts for the entire term of office, not just during campaign season. Serving in Congress is about being accountable to the people back home every single day.

What legacy would you like to leave?

The legacy I want to leave is one of strength, hard work, and determination. I want my grandchildren to remember me not just for what I accomplished, but for the values I lived by every day. Life brings struggles and challenges, but those difficulties can be a gift when we choose to meet them with courage and persistence. Our legacy is not written by the obstacles we face, but by the choices we make and the example we set for others. I hope my grandchildren and future generations in my community will carry forward the lesson that character, perseverance, and service to others are what truly endure.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

The first historical event I remember was the day President Ronald Reagan was shot. I was 14 years old in my high school choir class when it was announced over the loudspeaker. Half the class gasped, while the other half cheered. I was appalled that anyone could cheer such an act. That moment defined who I am today and set me on the path of becoming a Republican. It showed me the value of life, the importance of respect, and the deep reverence I hold for the office of the presidency. That experience shaped my belief that politics should never strip away our shared humanity.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

My first job was at eight years old, working in my father’s restaurant, Gino’s Pizza Parlor in Marysville, California. I had that job for a little over a year until our family moved. Each day, I took one bus to school and another to the restaurant, where I wiped down menus, filled salt and pepper and sugar dispensers, and crawled under tables to clean up so the servers didn’t have to. At that age, it was easy for me to fit under a table, but it also taught me responsibility and teamwork. In a family-owned business, the rule was simple: if you eat, you work. That experience instilled a work ethic I carry with me today, and throughout my childhood and adulthood, I have always worked.

What is your favorite book? Why?

My favorite book is Star Wars. I must have read it a dozen times growing up, along with the Han Solo series and other related books. While it is pure fiction, it fed my early craving for history, adventure, and larger-than-life stories. At the time, Star Wars was everywhere, and those books captured my imagination. They also taught me about courage, loyalty, and the battle between good and evil in a way that was entertaining but also meaningful. I suppose that makes me a fan of pop culture, but for me, those stories sparked a love of reading and inspired me to always look for the bigger picture in life.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

If I could be any fictional character, I would be Princess Leia. She was a freedom fighter who believed in truth and justice, and she stood by her principles even in the face of evil. She was also really good with a blaster, which may explain my passion for the Second Amendment and free speech. Like her, I believe that when a person has the courage to stand firm, that courage can inspire real change.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

One of the struggles I have faced in my life has been my weight. As a child, I was chubby, and while I worked hard to overcome that by the end of high school and into college, it became more difficult after having children. Like many Americans, balancing family, career, and health has not always been easy. But I believe acknowledging challenges is important because it shows we all have areas where we strive to do better. For me, it has been about staying active, working on balance, and recognizing that health is a lifelong journey. I use this struggle as a reminder to persevere, stay disciplined, and never stop improving.

What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution?

The U.S. House of Representatives is unique not only in our nation but in the world. Its strength lies in population-based representation, giving every community the ability to elect one of their own to speak for them in Washington. A representative should understand where we live, work, and raise our families, and carry those experiences into national policymaking. Each region of the country has its own identity, and the House reflects that diversity. It is truly a melting pot of voices, perspectives, and priorities that come together to shape the future of the nation.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics?

I do not believe previous government experience is necessary to serve in the House of Representatives. What matters most is real experience in business, family, and community life. A representative should reflect the nature and values of the people they serve, not just climb the next rung of a political ladder. Too often, politicians view local or state office as a stepping stone to Washington. I believe it should be the other way around: the House should be filled with voices of everyday citizens who understand the challenges of their communities and who are willing to serve, not build a career in politics.

What do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?

The greatest challenge facing the United States over the next decade is education. Today, only about 30% of high school graduates are proficient in reading, and 20% in math. At the same time, we rely more heavily on foreign skilled workers through visa programs to fill critical jobs. That is not sustainable. Our future depends on whether the next generation is prepared to lead, and that begins with serious reform in education. We must return to core skills like math, reading, and history, reduce dependency on computers in early education, and ensure students can master the basics without an electronic crutch. Strong education is the foundation for America’s strength.

Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives?

Yes, two years is the correct term length for the House of Representatives. The Constitution intended the House to be closest to the people, and short terms keep that connection strong. If you are not a career politician, a two-year term helps ensure you remain rooted in your community rather than comfortable in Washington. Too often, politicians climb the ladder and forget the people they represent. Voters must also remember these are not lifetime seats. Every two years, the public has the chance to decide if their representative is still in touch with where we live, work, and raise our families—or if it is time for a new voice.

What are your thoughts on term limits?

The real term limit in Congress is the ballot box every two years. I do not support legislative term limits because they create a revolving door of politicians while leaving unelected bureaucrats with permanent power and no accountability. California shows how this fails. The real solution is voter responsibility. Too often, people assume incumbents cannot be replaced, but every election is an opportunity to hold us accountable. Voters should not re-elect someone just for name recognition. If representatives fail, the public has the power to replace them.

Is there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

There is not just one representative I want to model myself after, but several whose qualities inspire me. Doug Ose stayed grounded and connected to the people he served here in Sacramento. Vic Fazio showed passion for environmental policy and advocacy for women. Wally Herger brought dedication to his district and understood the importance of community values. Beyond California, Barbara Jordan stood out for her principled approach and strong stances on issues like immigration. My goal is to take the best of these examples and incorporate their strengths into the policies and service I bring to Washington, while never losing sight of my own priorities for Sacramento.

Both sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

The most impactful story is my own, because it connects directly to the struggles of my community. I am a cancer survivor, and the contamination from nearby retired Air Force bases has left a lasting mark on Sacramento through cancer clusters and unsafe water. Politicians have ignored this danger for decades. Families who have called Sacramento home for generations, some for over 100 years, deserve better. This history and the people who built our community inspire me to fight for a safe and healthy future. Sacramento is where I chose to raise my family, and ensuring clean water and safe neighborhoods is deeply personal to me.

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

Yes, compromise is both necessary and desirable in policymaking. In politics, as in business, I believe in asking for everything while knowing in advance what I can settle for. The goal is not to give up, but to come out with more progress than where we started. Good policy requires negotiation, skill, and persistence. We need to bring both sides to the table, listen to input, and find common ground that truly serves the people. Compromise does not mean abandoning principles; it means working toward solutions that can actually be enacted and make a difference in people’s lives.

The Constitution says that all bills for raising revenue must originate in the House. What role would this power play in your priorities if elected?

I absolutely agree with the Constitution that all bills raising revenue must originate in the House. Too often, however, Congress has surrendered this power to unelected bureaucrats who impose fees and fines without proper legislative approval. Agencies like the EPA have created backdoor revenue streams that bypass the people’s representatives. This undermines accountability and weakens trust. As a constitutionalist, I believe the authority to raise revenue must remain with the House, and I will oppose massive omnibus bills that bury taxes and policies few members have even read. Taxing the American people must be thoughtful, transparent, and considered case by case.

How should the U.S. House use its investigative powers?

The investigative power of the House is one of its most important constitutional responsibilities. As someone who has personally worked to expose waste, fraud, and abuse, I understand the importance of using this power responsibly. Investigations must not become political witch hunts, but they must hold both elected officials and unelected bureaucrats accountable. The House has a duty to ensure that government serves the people, not itself or special interests. Proper oversight protects our freedoms, restores trust, and reminds Washington that public service is about accountability, transparency, and responsibility to the American people.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Current 2026 Endorsements (Top 10)

Ted Gaines, Board of Equalization Member and former California State Senator

Mike Morrell, former California State Senator

Yolo County Republican Party

Peter Kuo, former GOP Vice Chair

Rob Schneider, actor, writer, and comedian

Dr. Douglas Frank, nationally renowned physicist

Eric Early, attorney and former U.S. Senate candidate

Julie Hall, Massachusetts GOP and retired U.S. Air Force Colonel

Steve Frank, columnist and Republican activist

New California State

Previous 2024 Endorsements

Gun Owners of America, California Rifle and Pistol Association, National Rifle Association (favorable rating), Moms for America, California Pro-Life, Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association, California Republican Party

Candidates hear many personal stories from voters. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching or memorable?

One of the most memorable experiences I have had was not just hearing a story, but being part of it. Virginia was a woman in her 80s who was legally blind and wheelchair-bound, living in a second-story apartment. She had to sit on the stairs and slide up and down to reach her home. When the apartment complex decided to evict her because she could not safely evacuate, her greatest fear was losing a place to live. I worked with the local fire department and housing officials to find a sponsor and convinced the manager to let her stay until a downstairs unit became available. It was not just her story; it was an opportunity for me to step in and make her life safer and easier.

What is an accomplishment that you are proud of?

An accomplishment I am proud of is breaking free from a cycle of poverty. While my father found success at times, he often destroyed it, and my mother and I were left without a home. There were times we lived in cars, relied on food stamps, or stood in line for meals. I am proud that my children never had to experience that hardship. My strength has been refusing to be trapped by those circumstances and instead building a better life for my family. Nowhere else in the world could a homeless little girl grow up to run for the United States Congress. That is both my accomplishment and the promise of America.

What role should the United States government have in the development or use of artificial intelligence?

Artificial Intelligence is the future, not only for the United States but for the entire world. Our government must take a role of leadership and oversight. AI is not flawless; it is a tool that must remain under human control. We need to master the technology and harness its potential without allowing it to overtake us. Just as innovation has always driven American progress, we must ensure AI serves people, not replaces them. The United States should lead in setting standards that protect jobs, safeguard privacy, and keep our nation secure while advancing technology responsibly.

What legislation would you enact related to election administration in the United States?

As an election integrity hawk, I believe federal elections must be limited to U.S. citizens, whether natural-born or naturalized. To preserve trust, voter ID should be required. With technology like AI, the potential for fraud is greater than ever, so we must return to secure, verifiable practices. I do not support permanent mail-in voting, except for military or citizens temporarily overseas. Federal elections should use paper ballots, in person, on Election Day, as outlined in the Constitution. We have the ability to verify eligibility through existing national databases like Social Security or IRS records. Elections should not be complicated or nationalized, but integrity must always be protected.

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am Christine Bish, a seasoned small business owner and Sacramento resident with a residency spanning over three decades. Throughout my tenure in this community, I have actively contributed to various community-based organizations, including the Boy Scouts of America and serving as the Vice-Chair for the Oakmont High School Site Council. Notably, I assumed the role of Sacramento Area Chair for the Educational Freedom Initiative, an initiative championed by Dr. Milton Friedman. In my capacity as a guest speaker for The Conservative Voice in Riverside, California, I engaged in a compelling debate on the imperative of School Choice in the state.

As a local Realtor deeply embedded in the community, I possess a keen understanding of its needs and aspirations. Employing a "boots on the ground" approach, I am committed to assisting individuals in securing affordable, quality housing while adeptly navigating the intricacies of Federal, State, and Local laws and regulations. Drawing upon my extensive experience, I command a profound knowledge of the mortgage industry and State and Federal loan programs. My professional background includes over fifteen years as a skip tracer, specializing in locating witnesses, assets, and conducting background investigations. During my decade-long tenure with a local law firm, I garnered national recognition for my achievements with key clients.

I pledge to represent all constituents of my district regardless of political views.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Illegal Immigration and Border Security.

Americans are mad, and they ought to be- The Biden Administration is allowing an invasion on our Southern Border. I pledge to be a strong advocate for securing our borders and ending sanctuary cities. I will also stand behind Texas and any border state that takes action to protect their citizens. Reducing Crime Rates by resolving the homeless crisis, empowering law enforcement and border securityOvercoming Inflation by eliminating reckless uncontrolled spending (For example, passing the Omnibus Bill without reading it will overburden American taxpayers for generation to come). •

Strengthening Businesses by decreasing regulations and offering tax breaks. To address the financial struggles endured by our senior citizens, I am pledging to draft and pass legislation that will play a pivotal role in alleviating the burdens on this demographic by eliminating taxes on their hard-earned Social Security benefits, providing the relief they deserve.Ensuring Election Integrity by implementing fair and transparent voting procedures to prevent election and voter fraud

Equally important is my commitment to safeguarding parents' rights within the education system. I will work to ensure that parents maintain control over the upbringing and education of their children, preventing any encroachment on these fundamental rights by the school system. Defending Our Freedoms by ending unconstitutional mandates and ending mandatory employee CRT training

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Economic security, end to uncontrolled spending, energy independence, reducing crime and homelessness, protecting children's education, support to for veterans and their needs, strengthening businesses and opposition to regulatory overreach, ensuring election integrity, safeguarding the needs of senior citizens, support to for our military, no involvement in foreign conflicts where our national security is not threated nor the security of our allies.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

Ward Connerly who championed for the civil rights of all Americans. He worked very hard to end affirmative action and racial preferences in the University of California system.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

Film: Mr. Smith Goes to Washington

Books: Too many ... but the United States Constitution is dearest to me.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Integrity, transparency, communicate with constituents, live in community.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

Number one is tenacity. I'm not a shrinking violet and I never give on a cause I deeply believe in. I'm also relentless in the pursuit of truth and justice in all things--regardless of political interests or views. Right is right and wrong is wrong. Period.

I am a real person, am a open and good listener to all views; I talk the talk and walk the walk.

I know poverty, having escaped from it. As a result, I am a fierce patriot and advocate for the needs of American citizens first before the needs of other countries.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

To serve need of all constituents regardless of political affiliation or personal beliefs.

What legacy would you like to leave?

Reforming education in the United Stated by (1) getting rid of the Department of Education, a bureaucratic answer to every problem: add another layer of supervision. Since its inception, the US education system has fallen to one of the lowest levels amongst civilized countries, falling behind many others which have greatly improved their educational systems, such as Japan, Poland, and Ireland. Education belongs to the individual states and not a centralized bureaucracy in Washington, DC. The results of such a policy speak for themselves.

In this regard, I support the return to the principal basics of education: reading, writing, arithmetic. Social issues belong outside of the schools. Schools should educate and not indoctrinate.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

President Ronald Reagan getting shot. I was 15 years old at the time.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

I was 8 years old and worked at Gino's Pizza Parlor, Marysville, California. Cleaned under the tables where grownups couldn't easily reach, filled salt and pepper shakers, wiped off menus. Yes, I did get paid for it.

What is your favorite book? Why?

Too many books to single one specific one. I love all of my many books that have become part of my soul and are like visiting old friends.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

Scarlett O'Hara, who was a Bad-Ass lady in beautiful clothing. While she made mistakes, yet she never gave up!

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

Celebration by Kool & the Gang.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

My passion is helping people. My struggle is not being able to help enough people who need assistance and cry out for help. My hope is that in Congress I can bring this passion to fruition and really be able to make a difference in peoples' lives.

What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution?

The House of Representatives is the direct representative of the people. It serves at the will and consent of the people. It is truly a people's house.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics?

Yes -- it is beneficial in that it can help a representative to understand the workings and procedures of the House, thus being more efficient.

No -- People can become jaded and clubby. They no longer see any solution to problems other than their interests in the next election.

What do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?

Education -- The dismal state of public education for our youth. This is a national security issue as it leads to increased dependence on immigration, particularly for high-tech jobs, H1B visas for industry, while leaving our youth without access to such jobs. Lack of recruitment of young people for our military to serve our country. Lack of critical thinking in our schools and by our youth leads to ea

On the 2026 ballot

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Compiled from the candidate’s published profile as of September 30, 2026 and FEC filings.

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