ICYMI: Kim Olson’s Dodgy Departure from the Military Emerges as Big Vulnerability in Texas Congressional Race
ICYMI: Kim Olson’s Dodgy Departure from the Military Emerges as Big Vulnerability in Texas Congressional Race
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 24th, 2020
Contact: Jazmin Vargas
jazmin@chcboldpac.com
This week, the Texas Tribune
published an article highlighting growing concerns in Texas about Kim Olson’s ability to flip Texas’ 24th Congressional District, given her dubious military record
and the circumstances surrounding her departure from the military. Republicans are now primed
to make Olson's corruption allegations during her time in the military a top issue for voters in the general election.
According to the Tribune, while on active duty as one of the most powerful figures in Iraq “ ...Olson established a U.S. outpost of the South Africans’ security firm, Meteoric, and allegedly made herself the director. Within months, the Pentagon caught wind of the arrangement and conducted an investigation that accused her of improperly helping Meteoric win lucrative government contracts.”
Also in the article, Common Defense, a progressive veterans group that has backed Olson’s opponent, Democrat Candace Valenzuela lays out their support of Valenzuela. "As veterans, we support elected officials who will fight for us, not themselves. We won’t give someone a rubber stamp just because they’re a fellow veteran, we vote for the candidate who represents the same values of integrity and character we hold dear. The person in this race who represents those values is Candace Valenzuela,” explained Common Defense's political director, Alexander McCoy.
In case you missed it…
Kim Olson’s departure from the Air Force hasn’t been a political liability. Will that change in 2020?
Patrick Svitek
In Kim Olson's still relatively young political career, her opponents have mostly steered clear of making a major issue out of the contracting scandal that led to her retirement from the Air Force in 2005.
Texas' swashbuckling agriculture commissioner, Sid Miller, barely brought it up when she ran a surprisingly close race against him in 2018.
This year, she advanced in the first round of a crowded, mostly cordial Democratic U.S. House primary that saw little airing of the scandal. Her runoff opponent, Candace Valenzuela, hasn't brought it up yet.
However, as she approaches the July runoff, Olson is poised to potentially confront the issue in a way that she has not had to before. Some Valenzuela supporters are starting to go public with concerns about her military career — and whether it would be too much of a general-election liability in a district that national Democrats are hoping to flip.
All the while, national Republicans have kept up a drumbeat suggesting that hounding her as a "war profiteer" would be central to their November playbook in the district. She rejects that term, calling it plainly inaccurate, but acknowledges the attacks are not going away anytime soon — and argues that she is well-prepared to fend them off.
[...]
Olson's case came to light in a 2006 Los Angeles Times story, and she discusses it at length in a memoir she published later that year, “Iraq and Back: Inside the War to Win the Peace.” During her 2018 bid for agriculture commissioner, it came up mainly in the form of an Austin American-Statesman story.
The issue dates back to Olson’s time in Iraq in the early 2000s, when she served as the No. 2 to Gen. Jay Garner as he led the American rebuilding effort there. Instead of providing Garner's team with military protection, the Department of Defense hired a group of South African bodyguards that Garner and Olson later said they came to greatly appreciate. When Garner was replaced several months later, he said he asked Olson to find a way to make sure the South Africans got paid for their work.
Along the way, Olson established a U.S. outpost of the South Africans' security firm, Meteoric, and allegedly made herself the director. Within months, the Pentagon caught wind of the arrangement and conducted an investigation that accused her of improperly helping Meteoric win lucrative government contracts.
Olson denied the allegations and said she never personally profited from the Meteoric contracts. She eventually received a nonjudicial punishment known as an Article 15. She agreed to plead guilty to lesser charges, including creating the appearance of a conflict of interest, and received a formal reprimand and $3,500 fine. She was permitted to retire with an honorable discharge and no reduction in rank.
[...]
Democrats, both those who have taken sides in the runoff and those who have not, are keeping an eye on how Olson navigates the re-emergence of the issue.
"There’s no question that the problem she had ... is a bump in the road politically and she’s got to get over that without losing a wheel," said Matt Angle, a Democratic strategist who runs the Lone Star Project, which has not endorsed in the race. "Nobody should think that it’s just a non-issue."
[...]
Olson and Valenzuela are competing for their party's nomination to replace retiring U.S. Rep. Kenny Marchant, R-Coppell. The seat is among seven this cycle in Texas that the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee is aiming to flip. Beth Van Duyne, the former U.S. housing official and Irving mayor, has already secured the Republican nomination for the seat.
That could be the difference between this cycle and Olson's 2018 race against Miller. Two years ago, she was the clear underdog. Now Olson is running in a national battleground that could easily draw over $1 million in attack ad spending once the general election is set.
"Our polling data always showed that Commissioner Miller enjoyed a comfortable lead in the race and therefore we saw no need to spend campaign dollars on paid media on this issue," Miller's political consultant, Todd Smith, wrote in an email. "We were hopeful that the mainstream media would find her military record as disturbing as we did and would do their jobs in bringing this matter to light."
[...]
Valenzuela's campaign had no comment for this story. But one of her recent endorsers in the runoff, a progressive veterans group called Common Defense, is sounding the alarm about Olson, saying she "used her position of power in the military to steer $3 million to South African bodyguards, then went into business with them." Olson's supporters say that claim was not substantiated by the Pentagon investigation.
Common Defense's political director, Alexander McCoy, said in a statement: "As veterans, we support elected officials who will fight for us, not themselves. We won’t give someone a rubber stamp just because they’re a fellow veteran, we vote for the candidate who represents the same values of integrity and character we hold dear. The person in this race who represents those values is Candace Valenzuela."
McCoy was harsher in an interview, saying Olson "displayed incredibly poor judgment" in Iraq as well as a "selfishness and lack of integrity."
[...]
While the intraparty criticism of Olson may be limited so far, Republicans have hammered the line of attack since Olson's campaign began. Hours after she launched her campaign last year, the National Republican Congressional Committee welcomed her to the race with a statement invoking the contracting controversy.
"If Democrats are foolish enough to nominate disgraced war profiteer Kim Olson, she’ll be rejected in November as Texans learn more about the criminal enterprise she ran at the expense of our troops in Iraq," NRCC spokesman Bob Salera said in a statement for this story.
Click HERE
for the full story.
###
CHC BOLD PAC, the campaign arm of the Hispanic Caucus started in 2001 to help increase the representation of Latinos in Congress. Since its founding, BOLD PAC has helped almost double the number of Latinos in Congress.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 1, 2026 Contact: valeria@chcboldpac.com CHC BOLD PAC Endorses Teresa Benitez-Thompson for Congress in Nevada's 2nd Congressional District WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, CHC BOLD PAC, the campaign arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, announces its endorsement of Teresa Benitez-Thompson (NV-02) for Congress. “CHC BOLD PAC is proud to endorse Teresa Benitez-Thompson for Congress in Nevada’s 2nd Congressional District,” said CHC BOLD PAC Chairwoman Linda Sánchez. “Teresa has spent her career fighting for Nevada families as a social worker and state legislator. She understands the challenges working families face because she's spent her life helping people navigate them. Teresa will bring compassionate leadership, a proven record of delivering results, and a deep commitment to Nevada's communities to Congress. “I'm honored to earn the endorsement of CHC BOLD PAC,” said Teresa Benitez-Thompson. “Public service has always been about fighting for people and making sure every family has the opportunity to succeed. From my work as a social worker to my years in the Nevada Legislature, I'm ready to bring that same commitment to Congress—lowering costs, growing the kind of jobs that support hard-working families, keeping our community safe, and delivering results for every Nevadan.” ### CHC BOLD PAC, the campaign arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, was founded in 2001 to increase Latino representation in Congress. Since its founding, BOLD PAC has more than doubled the size of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. *** PARA DISTRIBUCIÓN INMEDIATA: 1 de julio de 2026 Contacto: valeria@chcboldpac.com CHC BOLD PAC respalda a Teresa Benítez-Thompson para el Congreso por el 2.º Distrito Congresional de Nevada. WASHINGTON D.C. – Hoy, CHC BOLD PAC,el brazo de campaña del Caucus Hispano del Congreso, anuncia su respaldo a Teresa Benítez-Thompson (NV-02) para el Congreso. "CHC BOLD PAC se enorgullece de respaldar a Teresa Benítez-Thompson para el Congreso por el 2.º Distrito Congresional de Nevada", dijo la presidenta de CHC BOLD PAC, Linda Sánchez. "Teresa ha dedicado su carrera a defender a las familias de Nevada como trabajadora social y legisladora estatal. Conoce de primera mano los desafíos que enfrentan las familias trabajadoras porque ha dedicado su vida a ayudarlas. Llevará al Congreso un liderazgo con empatía, una trayectoria comprobada de resultados y un firme compromiso con las comunidades de Nevada." "Me honra recibir el respaldo de CHC BOLD PAC," dijo Teresa Benitez-Thompson. "El servicio público siempre ha significado luchar por la gente y asegurar que cada familia tenga la oportunidad de prosperar. Desde mi trabajo como trabajadora social hasta mis años en la Legislatura de Nevada, estoy lista para llevar ese mismo compromiso al Congreso: reducir el costo de vida, impulsar empleos que apoyen a las familias trabajadoras, mantener segura a nuestra comunidad y dar resultados para todas las familias de Nevada.” CHC BOLD PAC se enorgullece de respaldar a Teresa Benítez-Thompson mientras trabaja para ampliar las oportunidades, fortalecer a las familias trabajadoras y dar resultados para el 2.º Distrito Congresional de Nevada. ### CHC BOLD PAC, el brazo de campaña del Caucus Hispano del Congreso, fue fundado en 2001 para aumentar la representación latina en el Congreso. Desde su fundación, CHC BOLD PAC ha más que duplicado el tamaño del Caucus Hispano del Congreso.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 30, 2026 Contact: valeria@chcboldpac.com CHC BOLD PAC Congratulates Manny Rutinel on Democratic Primary Victory in Colorado’s 8th Congressional District In Colorado’s Most Latino Congressional District, Manny Rutinel Will Turn Out the Latino Vote in November WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, CHC BOLD PAC, the political arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, congratulates Manny Rutinel on securing the Democratic nomination in Colorado’s 8th Congressional District. “Manny Rutinel’s victory today reflects Colorado’s trust in his ability to defeat MAGA extremism in November,” said CHC BOLD PAC Chairwoman Linda Sánchez. “As the son of a single Latina mother, Manny has a personal stake in the issues voters care about most—lowering costs, strengthening Social Security and Medicare, and expanding access to quality, affordable health care. As Colorado's most Latino congressional district, the 8th District deserves a champion who understands its communities. CHC BOLD PAC is proud to stand with Manny as he heads to the general election and works to deliver the leadership Colorado families deserve.” Rutinel’s campaign energized CO-08, uniting voters around his vision for Colorado and driving up turnout. Manny Rutinel has what it takes to flip this seat in November, and CHC BOLD PAC is excited to continue standing alongside him. ### CHC BOLD PAC, the campaign arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, was founded in 2001 to increase Latino representation in Congress. Since its founding, BOLD PAC has more than doubled the size of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. *** PARA DISTRIBUCIÓN INMEDIATA: 30 de junio de 2026 Contacto: valeria@chcboldpac.com CHC BOLD PAC felicita a Manny Rutinel por su victoria en la primaria demócrata del 8.º distrito congresional de Colorado En el distrito congresional con mayor población latina de Colorado, Manny Rutinel movilizará el voto latino en noviembre. WASHINGTON D.C. – Hoy, CHC BOLD PAC, el brazo político del Caucus Hispano del Congreso, felicita a Manny Rutinel por asegurar la nominación demócrata en el 8.º distrito congresional de Colorado. “La victoria de Manny Rutinel hoy refleja la confianza de Colorado en su capacidad para derrotar el extremismo MAGA en noviembre”, dijo la presidenta de CHC BOLD PAC, Linda Sánchez. “Como hijo de una madre latina soltera, Manny tiene un compromiso personal con los temas que más les importan a los votantes: reducir el costo de vida, fortalecer el Seguro Social y Medicare, y ampliar el acceso a una atención médica de calidad a bajo costo. Como el distrito congresional con la mayor población latina de Colorado, el Distrito 8 merece un líder que comprenda a sus comunidades. CHC BOLD PAC se enorgullece de respaldar a Manny mientras avanza hacia la elección general y trabaja para brindar el liderazgo que las familias de Colorado merecen.” La campaña de Rutinel movilizó al Distrito 8 de Colorado, uniendo a los votantes en torno a su visión para el estado e impulsando una mayor participación electoral. Manny Rutinel tiene lo necesario para ganar este escaño en noviembre, y CHC BOLD PAC se enorgullece de seguir apoyándolo en ese esfuerzo ### CHC BOLD PAC, el brazo de campaña del Caucus Hispano del Congreso, fue fundado en 2001 para aumentar la representación latina en el Congreso. Desde su fundación, CHC BOLD PAC ha más que duplicado el tamaño del Caucus Hispano del Congreso.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 25, 2026 Contact: press@chcboldpac.com CHC BOLD PAC Calls on DNC to Make Nevada the Nation’s First Presidential Primary, Elevate Latino Voters Ahead of 2028 WASHINGTON D.C. – As part of its commitment to expanding Latino representation in Congress, today CHC BOLD PAC, the campaign arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, is calling on the DNC Rules and Bylaws Committee to make Nevada the First in the Nation presidential primary. Cycle after cycle, Latino voters play a critical role in determining election outcomes, and the 2028 presidential election will be no different. Latinos were vital to re-electing Catherine Cortez Masto, the nation’s only Latina U.S. Senator, in 2022, and re-electing Senator Jacky Rosen in 2024. CHC BOLD PAC Chairwoman Linda Sánchez released the following statement in support of making Nevada the first nominating state in the Democratic presidential primary calendar: “As the fastest-growing community in the nation and across the battleground states, Latino voters remain powerful voices in determining election outcomes. If Democrats want to flip the White House in 2028 and continue winning up and down the ballot, we must prioritize Latino voices through early outreach and meaningful engagement in the presidential nominating process. No state better represents the broad coalition of diverse working-class voters that our party must build in order to be successful than Nevada. Elevating a battleground state with the fifth highest share of Latinos to kick off the nominating process ensures our party puts forth a nominee who can succeed in a general election and sets us up to elect Democratic majorities to the House and Senate. As we did in 2022, we are again imploring the DNC Rules and Bylaws Committee to make Nevada first in the nation and make lasting gains as Latino voters become even more decisive in future election cycles.” Background on Nevada According to the 2020 U.S. Census Index , Nevada was rated the third most diverse state in America. The state’s population is majority-minority, with nearly 1 million Latinos, making it the only state vying to host the First in the Nation primary that is home to a major Latino electorate. In recent years, the Latino community has become the country's second-largest voting bloc by ethnicity and a decisive factor in state and national races. Nevada is also a battle-tested early state, having been the First in the West since the 2008 election cycle, as well as one of the most consistently competitive general election battlegrounds in the country. ### CHC BOLD PAC, the campaign arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, was founded in 2001 to increase Latino representation in Congress. Since its founding, BOLD PAC has more than doubled the size of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. *** PARA DISTRIBUCIÓN INMEDIATA: 25 de junio de 2026 Contacto: press@chcboldpac.com CHC BOLD PAC pide al DNC que convierta a Nevada en la primera primaria presidencial del país y eleve la voz de los votantes latinos rumbo a 2028 WASHINGTON D.C. – Como parte de su compromiso con ampliar la representación latina en el Congreso, CHC BOLD PAC, el brazo político del Caucus Hispano del Congreso, hace un llamado al Comité de Reglas y Estatutos del Comité Nacional Demócrata (DNC) para que Nevada sea la primera primaria presidencial del país. Elección tras elección, los votantes latinos desempeñan un papel fundamental en la definición de los resultados electorales, y la elección presidencial de 2028 no será la excepción. Los latinos fueron clave para la reelección de Catherine Cortez Masto, la única senadora latina de Estados Unidos, en 2022, así como para la reelección de la senadora Jacky Rosen en 2024. La presidenta de CHC BOLD PAC, Linda Sánchez , emitió la siguiente declaración en apoyo a que Nevada sea el primer estado en el calendario de primarias presidenciales del Partido Demócrata: “Como la comunidad de más rápido crecimiento en el país y en los estados clave para las elecciones, los votantes latinos siguen siendo una fuerza determinante en los resultados electorales. Si los demócratas quieren recuperar la Casa Blanca en 2028 y seguir obteniendo victorias en todos los niveles de gobierno, debemos dar prioridad a las voces latinas desde el inicio del proceso de nominación presidencial. Ningún estado representa mejor la amplia coalición de votantes diversos y de clase trabajadora que nuestro partido necesita construir para alcanzar el éxito de Nevada. Dar prioridad a un estado clave con la quinta mayor proporción de población latina para iniciar el proceso de nominación ayuda a garantizar que nuestro partido presente una candidatura capaz de triunfar en una elección general y fortalece nuestras posibilidades de elegir mayorías demócratas en la Cámara de Representantes y el Senado. Tal como lo hicimos en 2022, hacemos nuevamente un llamado al Comité de Reglas y Estatutos del DNC para que Nevada ocupe el primer lugar en el calendario de nominación presidencial y así consolidar avances duraderos, mientras los votantes latinos continúan desempeñando un papel cada vez más decisivo en los futuros ciclos electorales.” Datos sobre Nevada Según el Índice del Censo de los Estados Unidos de 2020 , Nevada fue clasificado como el tercer estado más diverso del país. Su población es mayoritariamente de minorías raciales y étnicas, incluyendo cerca de un millón de latinos, lo que lo convierte en el único estado que busca albergar la primera elección primaria de la nación con un electorado latino de gran peso. En los últimos años, la comunidad latina se ha consolidado como el segundo bloque electoral más grande del país por origen étnico y como un factor decisivo en las elecciones estatales y nacionales. Además, Nevada cuenta con una larga trayectoria como estado clave en el proceso electoral, al haber sido el primero en el Oeste desde el ciclo electoral de 2008 y uno de los estados más competitivos en las elecciones generales a nivel nacional. ### CHC BOLD PAC, el brazo de campaña del Caucus Hispano del Congreso, fue fundado en 2001 para aumentar la representación latina en el Congreso. Desde su fundación, CHC BOLD PAC ha más que duplicado el tamaño del Caucus Hispano del Congreso.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 10, 2026 Contact: valeria@chcboldpac.com Congressional Progressive Caucus PAC and Congressional Hispanic Caucus BOLD PAC Stand Together Behind Rep. Adriano Espaillat WASHINGTON D.C. – The Congressional Progressive Caucus PAC and Congressional Hispanic Caucus BOLD PAC are united behind Rep. Adriano Espaillat for re-election in New York's 13th Congressional District, a proven fighter for immigrant and working families. CHC BOLD PAC Chairwoman Linda Sánchez and CPC PAC Co-Chairs Greg Casar, Pramilla Jayapal, and Maxwell Frost released the following joint statement: “Adriano Espaillat came to the U.S. as a child and lived here undocumented; he knows when people in power don’t care about you, what it’s like to worry about making ends meet, and to wonder if the government is targeting your family. He is, in every sense, exactly the kind of person Donald Trump's deportation strategy was built to target. He has taken the Trump administration to court, refused to hand ICE a blank check, and has already proven he’ll never stop fighting when it matters. That’s why we stand with Adriano, and have endorsed him for re-election on June 23.” ### CHC BOLD PAC, the campaign arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, was founded in 2001 to increase Latino representation in Congress. Since its founding, BOLD PAC has more than doubled the size of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 9, 2026 Contact: valeria@chcboldpac.com CHC BOLD PAC Congratulates Randy Villegas on Democratic Primary Victory in California’s 22nd Congressional District WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, CHC BOLD PAC, the political arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, congratulates Randy Villegas on securing the Democratic nomination in California’s 22nd Congressional District, the most Latino congressional district in California . “Randy Villegas’ victory is a powerful reminder that perseverance, community, and hard work can overcome even the toughest obstacles,” said CHC BOLD PAC Chairwoman Linda Sánchez. “Randy built a grassroots movement rooted in the values that define the Central Valley. His victory reflects the aspirations of working families who want a leader who understands their struggles and will fight for their future.” Villegas’ victory demonstrates the power of our Latino community coming together to demand representation that reflects their lived experiences. His victory in California’s 22nd Congressional District sends a clear message that voters are ready for leadership that will put working families first. CHC BOLD PAC is proud to stand with Randy Villegas as he advances to the general election. ### CHC BOLD PAC, the campaign arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, was founded in 2001 to increase Latino representation in Congress. Since its founding, BOLD PAC has more than doubled the size of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. *** PARA DISTRIBUCIÓN INMEDIATA: 9 de junio de 2026 Contacto: valeria@chcboldpac.com CHC BOLD PAC Felicita a Randy Villegas por su Victoria en la Primaria Demócrata del Distrito Congresional 22 de California WASHINGTON, D.C. – Hoy, CHC BOLD PAC, el brazo político del Caucus Hispano del Congreso, felicita a Randy Villegas por asegurar la nominación demócrata en el Distrito Congresional 22 de California, el distrito congresional con la mayor población latina del estado. “La victoria de Randy Villegas es un poderoso recordatorio de que la perseverancia, la comunidad y el trabajo duro pueden superar incluso los desafíos más difíciles”, dijo la presidenta de CHC BOLD PAC, Linda Sánchez. “Randy construyó un movimiento comunitario basado en los valores que representan al Valle Central. Su victoria refleja las aspiraciones de las familias trabajadoras que quieren un líder que entienda sus desafíos y luche por su futuro.” La victoria de Villegas demuestra la fuerza de nuestra comunidad latina cuando se une para exigir una representación que refleje sus experiencias y prioridades. Su triunfo en el Distrito Congresional 22 de California envía un mensaje claro: los votantes están listos para un liderazgo que ponga a las familias trabajadoras en primer lugar. CHC BOLD PAC se enorgullece de apoyar a Randy Villegas mientras avanza a la elección general. ### CHC BOLD PAC, el brazo de campaña del Caucus Hispano del Congreso, se fundó en 2001 con el objetivo de aumentar la representación latina en el Congreso. Desde su fundación, BOLD PAC ha duplicado con creces el tamaño del Caucus Hispano del Congreso.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 13, 2026 Contact: valeria@chcboldpac.com CHC BOLD PAC Congratulates Denise Powell on Historic Victory in Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District Democratic Primary BOLD PAC’s $600,000 Investment Helped Power Powell’s Historic Win, Positioning her to Become the First Latina to Represent Nebraska in Congress WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, CHC BOLD PAC, the political arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, congratulates Denise Powell on securing the Democratic nomination in Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District. CHC BOLD PAC Chairwoman Linda Sánchez released the following statement celebrating Powell’s milestone victory: “Denise Powell’s victory is a powerful reminder that Latina leadership is shaping the future of communities across the country,” said CHC BOLD PAC Chairwoman Sánchez. “Throughout this campaign, Denise connected with voters by speaking directly to the challenges families face every day — lowering costs, protecting fundamental freedoms, and creating pathways to opportunity. As she heads toward November, Denise is poised to make history as the first Latina elected to represent Nebraska in Congress, and BOLD PAC is proud to stand with her.” BOLD PAC invested $600,000 in TV and digital ads to amplify Powell’s record helping immigrant communities and standing up to ICE. Powell’s campaign sparked enthusiasm across NE-02, building a broad coalition of voters energized by her vision for affordable opportunities, stronger communities, and responsive leadership. Her victory not only signals growing momentum for Latino representation in the heartland but also reflects the power of grassroots organizing and a new generation of leadership ready to move the country forward. Denise Powell has what it takes to flip this seat in November and BOLD PAC is excited to continue standing alongside her. ### CHC BOLD PAC, the campaign arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, was founded in 2001 to increase Latino representation in Congress. Since its founding, BOLD PAC has more than doubled the size of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. *** PARA DISTRIBUCIÓN INMEDIATA: 13 de mayo de 2026 Contacto: valeria@chcboldpac.com CHC BOLD PAC felicita a Denise Powell por su victoria histórica en la primaria demócrata del 2.º distrito congresional de Nebraska La inversión de $600,000 de CHC BOLD PAC contribuyó a impulsar la victoria histórica de Powell, posicionándola para convertirse en la primera latina en representar a Nebraska en el Congreso WASHINGTON, D.C. – Hoy, CHC BOLD PAC, el brazo político del Caucus Hispano del Congreso, felicita a Denise Powell por asegurar la nominación demócrata en el 2.º distrito congresional de Nebraska . La presidenta de CHC BOLD PAC, Linda Sánchez, emitió la siguiente declaración de la victoria histórica de Powell: “La victoria de Denise Powell es un poderoso recordatorio de que el liderazgo latino está moldeando el futuro de comunidades en todo el país”, dijo la presidenta de CHC BOLD PAC, Linda Sánchez. “A lo largo de esta campaña, Denise se conectó con los votantes hablando directamente sobre los desafíos que enfrentan las familias todos los días: reducir costos, proteger las libertades fundamentales y crear caminos hacia la prosperidad. De cara a noviembre, Denise está lista para hacer historia como la primera latina elegida para representar a Nebraska en el Congreso, y BOLD PAC se enorgullece de estar a su lado." BOLD PAC invirtió $600,000 en anuncios de televisión y medios digitales para amplificar el historial de Powell en apoyo a las comunidades inmigrantes y su postura firme ante el ICE. La campaña de Powell generó entusiasmo en todo el NE-02, construyendo una amplia coalición de votantes energizados por su visión de oportunidades económicos, comunidades más fuertes y un liderazgo responsable. Su victoria no solo señala un creciente impulso hacia la representación latina en el corazón del país, sino que también refleja el poder de la organización de base y una nueva generación de liderazgo lista para llevar al país hacia adelante. Denise Powell tiene lo que se necesita para voltear este escaño en noviembre y BOLD PAC está emocionado de continuar apoyándola. ### CHC BOLD PAC, el brazo de campaña del Caucus Hispano del Congreso, se fundó en 2001 con el objetivo de aumentar la representación latina en el Congreso. Desde su fundación, BOLD PAC ha duplicado con creces el tamaño del Caucus Hispano del Congreso.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 30, 2026 Contact: valeria@chcboldpac.com CHC BOLD PAC Endorses Melissa Hernandez for Congress in California's 14th Congressional District WASHINGTON D.C. – CHC BOLD PAC, the campaign arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, proudly announces its endorsement of Melissa Hernandez (CA-14) for Congress. “CHC BOLD PAC is excited to endorse Melissa Hernandez for Congress in CA-14,” said CHC BOLD PAC Chairwoman Linda Sánchez. “Melissa is a proven leader who has delivered real results for working families, from expanding housing and improving public transit to increasing access to healthcare and mental health services. As a Latina trailblazer and former Mayor of Dublin and BART Board Director, she understands the urgency of this moment and what it takes to get things done. I am confident Melissa will bring strong and proven leadership to Congress.” “I’m honored to receive the endorsement of CHC BOLD PAC at such a defining moment for our communities,” said Melissa Hernandez. “After years of serving our community, I understand that representation is about results. I’ve worked to expand housing for families at all income levels, improve regional transit, and strengthen access to healthcare and mental health services across Alameda County. I’m running for Congress to continue that fight—so working families in California’s 14th district have real opportunity, affordable living, and a government that delivers for them every day.” Born to migrant farm worker parents and raised in a working-class family, Hernandez has lived in Dublin for more than 30 years. She worked while raising her children and earning her degree from California State University, East Bay. CHC BOLD PAC stands proudly with Melissa Hernandez as she fights to lower costs, expand opportunity, and deliver for California’s 14th District, where Latino voters will play a decisive role in this election. ### CHC BOLD PAC, the campaign arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, was founded in 2001 to increase Latino representation in Congress. Since its founding, BOLD PAC has more than doubled the size of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. *** PARA DISTRIBUCIÓN INMEDIATA: 30 de abril de 2026 Contacto: valeria@chcboldpac.com CHC BOLD PAC respalda a Melissa Hernandez para el Congreso en el 14.º Distrito Congresional de California Washington, D.C. – CHC BOLD PAC, el brazo de campaña del Caucus Hispano del Congreso, se enorgullece de anunciar su respaldo a Melissa Hernandez (CA-14) para el Congreso. “CHC BOLD PAC se complace en respaldar a Melissa Hernandez para el Congreso en el distrito CA-14”, dijo la presidenta de CHC BOLD PAC, Linda Sánchez. “Melissa es una líder comprobada que ha logrado resultados reales para las familias trabajadoras, desde aumentar el acceso a la vivienda y mejorar el transporte público hasta aumentar el acceso a la atención médica y a los servicios de salud mental. Como pionera latina, exalcaldesa de Dublin y directora de la Junta de BART, entiende la urgencia de este momento y lo que se necesita para cumplir con los objetivos. Estoy segura de que Melissa aportará un liderazgo firme y eficaz en el Congreso.” “Me honra recibir el respaldo de CHC BOLD PAC en un momento tan decisivo para nuestras comunidades”, dijo Melissa Hernandez. “Después de años de servir a nuestra comunidad, entiendo que la representación se trata de resultados. He trabajado para aumentar el acceso a la vivienda para familias de todos los niveles de ingresos, mejorar el transporte regional, y fortalecer el acceso a la atención médica y a los servicios de salud mental en todo el condado de Alameda. Me postulo para el Congreso para continuar esa lucha, de modo que las familias trabajadoras del distrito 14 de California tengan oportunidades reales, un costo de vida asequible, y un gobierno que les responda todos los días.” Hija de trabajadores agrícolas migrantes y criada en una familia de clase trabajadora, Hernandez ha vivido en Dublin por más de 30 años. Mientras criaba a sus hijos, trabajó y obtuvo su título en la Universidad Estatal de California, East Bay CHC BOLD PAC se enorgullece de apoyar a Melissa Hernandez mientras lucha por reducir costos, ampliar oportunidades y cumplir con el distrito 14 de California, donde los votantes latinos desempeñarán un papel decisivo en esta elección. ### CHC BOLD PAC, el brazo de campaña del Caucus Hispano del Congreso, se fundó en 2001 con el objetivo de aumentar la representación latina en el Congreso. Desde su fundación, BOLD PAC ha duplicado con creces el tamaño del Caucus Hispano del Congreso.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 16, 2026 Contact: valeria@chcboldpac.com CHC BOLD PAC Congratulates Analilia Mejía on Historic Election to New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District Mejía Becomes First Latina to Represent the District, Only the Second Latina Elected to Congress from New Jersey WASHINGTON D.C. – Tonight, CHC BOLD PAC, the campaign arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, congratulates Analilia Mejía on her election to New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District. CHC BOLD PAC Chairwoman Linda Sánchez issued the following statement on Mejía’s victory: “CHC BOLD PAC proudly congratulates Analilia Mejía on her groundbreaking victory as the first Latina elected to represent New Jersey’s 11th District and just the second Latina to serve New Jersey in Congress,” said CHC BOLD PAC Chairwoman Sánchez. “Analilia has been a tireless advocate for working families, economic justice, and equitable opportunities. Her leadership reflects the strength and diversity of her community, and we are confident she will deliver meaningful results for New Jersey families.” A steadfast organizer and tireless advocate for working people, Mejía has built her career empowering communities and advancing policies that expand opportunity and protect working people. CHC BOLD PAC celebrates her historic achievement and looks forward to her continued leadership in Congress. ### CHC BOLD PAC, the campaign arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, was founded in 2001 to increase Latino representation in Congress. Since its founding, BOLD PAC has more than doubled the size of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 13, 2026 Contact: valeria@chcboldpac.com CHC BOLD PAC, Elect Democratic Women, and Women Vote Launch $1 Million Paid Program to Support Denise Powell in NE-02 WASHINGTON D.C. – The Congressional Hispanic Caucus’ BOLD PAC, Elect Democratic Women (EDW), and Women Vote are launching a $1 million paid program this week in support of Denise Powell in Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District. The program will communicate why Denise is best positioned to win in November with voters in the district across both broadcast TV and cable. New polling from GQR found that Denise Powell has a broad base of support and is in a strong position to win this race once voters learn more about her background and positions on key issues. After voters hear both candidates’ messages, Powell leads Cavanaugh 41%-34%. “NE-02 is one of the best pickup opportunities for Democrats in the country, and Denise Powell has a real path to victory,” said CHC BOLD PAC Chairwoman Linda Sánchez . “That's why BOLD PAC is proud to partner with Elect Democratic Women and EMILY’s List to stand behind Denise Powell with the full force of our organizations' records of winning races and increasing diversity. Electing Denise will bring another strong Latina voice to Congress, and we know she will never stop fighting for the Latino community and working families across the country.” “Denise Powell is exactly the kind of leader we need in Congress to help counter Donald Trump’s dangerous agenda and deliver for Nebraska families,” said Congresswoman Lois Frankel, Chair of Elect Democratic Women . “A mom, small business owner, and longtime advocate for public education and affordable health care, Denise has spent her career uplifting her community, and Elect Democratic Women is proud to continue supporting her campaign.” “Flipping this seat is crucial for Democrats to regain the U.S. House majority in 2026, and Denise Powell is our strongest candidate. Denise understands how the Republicans’ reckless agenda harms Nebraskans and is ready to fight for real solutions,” said Jessica Mackler, president of EMILYs List . “EMILYs List is excited to be launching a joint paid media program to reach Nebraska voters about what is at stake in this race. We’re ready to help Denise win and make a real difference for the people of Nebraska.” CHC BOLD PAC is the political arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, dedicated to increasing the diversity of our leadership in the House and Senate. Since its founding, BOLD PAC has raised more than $73 million and more than doubled the size of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. Elect Democratic Women is the only Member-led PAC dedicated to electing more women to Congress and higher office. Formed in 2018 by Democratic House members, EDW has raised over $40 million, supported over 200 women running for office, and helped elect and re-elect over 100 women to Congress. EMILYs List , the nation’s largest resource for women in politics, works to elect Democratic pro-choice women up and down the ballot. We've raised $990 million to help elect over 1,900 Democratic pro-choice women by recruiting and training candidates, supporting and helping build strong campaigns, researching the issues that impact women and families, and running one of the most impactful independent expenditure operations for Democrats. Collectively, CHC BOLD PAC, EDW, and EMILYs List endorse candidates who are the future of the Democratic party, and support races that will make all the difference to flip the House this November. This joint effort reflects Denise Powell’s growing momentum ahead of the May primary. ### CHC BOLD PAC, the campaign arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, was founded in 2001 to increase Latino representation in Congress. Since its founding, BOLD PAC has more than doubled the size of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus.
ICYMI: New Polling Shows Denise Powell Leads 41-34 in NE-02
