Lorenzo Rios

Lorenzo Rios served in the U.S. Army from 1996 to 2015. He graduated from Brewster High School. He earned a bachelor's and a graduate degree from Gonzaga University in 1995 and 1999, respectively, and a graduate degree from Arizona State University in 2006. His career experience includes working as a CEO.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a husband, a father, a man of faith, a combat veteran, and a public servant committed to protecting the American Dream in California’s Central Valley. I served 23 years in uniform, leading soldiers in combat and making decisions where lives were on the line. That experience shaped my belief that leadership requires accountability and results.

After retiring, I continued my service as CEO of the Clovis Veterans Memorial District, delivering results for veterans, families, and our community—expanding programs, strengthening partnerships, and honoring those who served.

I have taught leadership at West Point and Fresno State and mentored youth through the Boy Scouts of America as a Scoutmaster and Charter Organization Representative.

I serve as President of the California Special District Association and previously served as a Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army, working across all levels of government to deliver results.

I am running for Congress to bring a strong voice for the entire Valley—including our immigrant communities. I speak both English and Spanish and believe in opportunity, dignity, and results for every family.

I came to this country as a child and worked alongside my family in the fields. The American Dream changed my life—and I am committed to protecting it for the next generation.

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?

Lower the Cost of Living & Grow the Valley Economy

The cost of living is rising, and too many Valley families are falling behind. Water, energy, and workforce drive costs here. I will fight for federal water policies that increase supply and reliability, restore energy independence to lower fuel and utility prices, and support small businesses. We must also expand apprenticeships and internships so people can earn while they learn, build real skills, and step into good-paying jobs. When we grow our economy locally, we lower costs and create opportunity so families can stay, work, and succeed in the Valley.Protect Our Communities

Safe communities are the foundation of opportunity. I will ensure law enforcement has the tools they need and improve coordination across agencies so they can do their jobs effectively. We must secure the border, stop human trafficking and drug trafficking, and crack down on farm theft that impacts Valley livelihoods. Immigration reform must reflect our values—law and order, employer needs, and human dignity—so people can live and work without fear. Order. Dignity. Stability.Serve Those Who Served & Strengthen Families

We owe our veterans real results. I will work to deliver a world-class VA experience in the Valley, including infrastructure like parking so access to care is not a barrier. We must improve coordination across agencies and strengthen the transition from military to civilian life so veterans and their families stay healthy, connected, and employed. We should be keeping that talent and leadership here in the Valley, not losing it. Strong families are the foundation of strong communities.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am most passionate about policies that protect the American Dream in the Central Valley. That starts with water and agriculture—ensuring reliable supply so our farmers and communities can thrive. I am focused on lowering the cost of living by restoring energy independence, supporting small businesses, and creating real job pathways through apprenticeships and internships. Public safety is essential, including equipping law enforcement, securing the border, and advancing immigration reform rooted in law, employer needs, and human dignity. Finally, I am committed to serving our veterans by improving access to care, strengthening coordination, and helping them successfully transition to civilian life.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Senator Shannon Groves, Assemblymembers Alexandra Macedo and David Tangipa, Fresno County DA Lisa Smitcamp, Fresno County Supervisors Gary Bredefeld, Nathan Magsig, Tulare County Supervisor Dennis Townsend, Sanger Mayor Frank Gonzalez, Clovis Mayor Vong Mouanoutoua, Parlier Mayor Alma Beltran, Sanger Councilman Michael Montelongo, Clovis City Councilmembers Diane Pierce and Drew Bessinger