Congressional Election Results Could Bring California Lawmakers to Key Committee Leadership Positions
Published Friday, November 6, 2026
Democrats' victory in the Nov. 3 midterm elections will bring changes to congressional leadership in the 120th Congress, including committees responsible for policies affecting California agriculture. Two California representatives have announced their intentions to lead committees with significant influence over federal agricultural and natural resource policy.
Rep. Jim Costa, D-Fresno, a longtime member of the House Agriculture Committee, is seeking the committee's chairmanship. Costa, a third-generation farmer who has served on the committee for more than two decades, has helped develop three farm bills and identified rising production costs, agricultural markets and strengthening the farm safety net among his priorities. The committee oversees federal farm policy, including crop insurance, conservation programs, nutrition assistance and development of the farm bill.
Rep. Jared Huffman, D-San Rafael, currently the top Democrat on the House Natural Resources Committee, has also announced his intention to seek the chairmanship. The committee oversees federal public lands, water resources, wildlife and endangered species policy, all of which have significant implications for California farmers and ranchers. Huffman has indicated that public lands management, environmental protections and federal permitting reform will be among his priorities.
While committee leadership selections have not yet been finalized, these potential appointments could give California lawmakers prominent roles in shaping federal policies affecting agriculture. California Farm Bureau will continue engaging with congressional leadership as the new Congress establishes its legislative priorities.
Staff contact: Bryan Little, blittle@cfbf.com.
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