Fresno Councilmember Esparza Withdraws Senate Bid, Endorses Soria

Fresno City Councilmember Nelson Esparza has suspended his campaign for California's 14th District State Senate seat and has endorsed Assemblymember Esmeralda Soria in her 2026 bid. Esparza emphasized the importance of unity and defeating MAGA candidates, stating that his public service has focused on supporting vulnerable communities. Soria, who has garnered major endorsements including from current State Senator Anna Caballero, has been actively campaigning since March and served alongside Esparza on the Fresno City Council from 2019 to 2022. Esparza credited their shared vision for a better California and expressed his commitment to continue serving Central Valley communities through this unity. The seat is currently held by term-limited Anna Caballero, and the race also involves Republican former Merced Mayor Michael Murphy seeking the Assembly seat. Esparza originally had significant endorsements but stepped aside to consolidate support behind Soria's campaign.