The primary election could have major national implications with the potential of two Democrats being the candidates of choice in November. This is because California uses a jungle primary system, where the top two vote-getters advance to the general election, no matter the candidates' party affiliation.
Especially after California voters passed Proposition 50, which allowed the redrawing of California's congressional district map until 2030.
Previously, District 22 spans parts of Kings, Tulare, Fresno, and Kern counties. Under the new map, portions of western Fresno, Madera, and eastern Bakersfield have been added.
Those changes have shifted the seat, long considered a toss-up and one of the most closely contested in Congress, to one that now slightly favors Democrats. Still, the race is expected to remain competitive in November.
Valadao, one of the last remaining Republicans who voted in favor of President Donald Trump's second impeachment, has only lost his congressional seat once in the seven times he's run for Congress.
The race has also been marked by a contentious contest between the two Democratic candidates.
Jasmeet Bains, a state assemblymember from Bakersfield, is considered one of the more moderate Democrats in the Assembly.
Randy Villegas, a Visalia school board trustee, has been backed by progressive leaders, including Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
The California Democratic Party declined to endorse a candidate in the race.