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Monica Sanchez

DemocraticFirst-time candidate

Educator

Monica Sanchez is a Democratic candidate for U.S. House California District 38 in the 2026 election. This is their first run for office.

From the candidate’s public filings

Background

Monica Sanchez earned a bachelor's degree from the University of California, Berkeley in 2004 and a Ph.D. from the University of California, Los Angeles in 2012. Her career experience includes working as an educator.[1]

Ph.D:
University of California, Los Angeles, 2012
Bachelor's:
University of California, Berkeley, 2004

Campaign money

Raised
$191K
From individuals
$152K
From PACs & party
$5K
Own money
—

FEC filings through June 30, 2026.

View on FEC.gov(opens in new tab)

In their own words

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I'm Monica Sánchez, an educator, a mother of two, and a Pico Rivera City Councilmember running for Congress in California’s 38th District. I grew up in a working-class family. My dad was an immigrant farmworker and my mom was just 16 when I was born, and those experiences shaped how I see public service and the importance of fighting for working people.

I earned a doctorate in education and have spent my career lifting others up through education and community service. On the Pico Rivera City Council, I’ve worked to reduce housing costs, expand transportation, improve water quality, and support families impacted by immigration enforcement.

I’m running for Congress because our communities deserve leadership that understands their struggles and is willing to stand up to powerful interests and put people first.

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?

I’m a generation of new leadership for working families. I’m running to lower the cost of living, take on corporations that drive up prices, and make sure working people can afford groceries, housing, healthcare, and utilities.A leader who understands our community. I’m an educator, a mother, and a Pico Rivera City Councilmember who grew up in a working-class family. I know the challenges our families face because I’ve lived them, and I’ve spent my career working to expand opportunity.Results driven leadership. On the City Council, I’ve worked to reduce housing costs, improve water quality, expand transportation, and support families in need. In Congress, I’ll bring that same focus on practical solutions and delivering real results for our communities.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I’m passionate about education, lowering the cost of living, and creating more opportunities for working families. As an educator, I believe every child deserves access to a high quality education. I’m also focused on making housing, healthcare, and everyday costs more affordable.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Congresswoman Linda Sanchez, Congresswoman Norma Torres, Women in Leadership, Latinas Lead, National Latino Peace Officers Association, Plasters Union, Cement Masons, Orange County Young Democrats, South El Monte Mayor Gloria Olmos and Councilmember Manny Acosta, El Monte Mayor Jessica Ancona, City of Pico Rivera Councilmembers Johnny Garcia and Andrew Lara

On the 2026 ballot

Links

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

Source(opens in new tab)