Making a Run at Congress

Xiong says the only thing left to do is file the candidacy paperwork, which is due by March 9th.

Xiong is going after the newly realigned, 21st Congressional District, which encompasses parts of Fresno, Kings and Kern Counties.

Xiong says his desire has been building for some time now.  He felt Sunday evening was the right time to let people know that he wants to try and advance his political career to a broader stage.

When asked why he's making the leap to the federal level, Xiong said it's a great opportunity that he didn't want to pass up.

With a victory, Xiong would get to represent many more people in the Central Valley; in places like Firebaugh, Hanford, Coalinga and Shafter.

The Democrat currently represents District 1 in Fresno, which includes the Tower District.  He is very familiar with issues throughout the city having served on the council for six years.

He talked about the thought process of making a run at a spot in Washington D.C.

"This is not an easy decision to make.  It impacts a lot of people, not just myself and my family. There's going to be a lot of people engaged in this process that are going to give in many different ways.  Whether it's financially, through volunteerism or people voting," said Blong Xiong, Fresno City Councilman.

Xiong will be campaigning against Hanford Republican, David Valadao, who currently represents the 30th Assembly district, which includes much of the same territory as the 21st District.

Another Democrat, John Hernandez of the Central California Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, recently announced he is running for the 21st seat as well.

If Xiong were to lose the congressional race he would return to his seat on the Fresno city council where he has two years of service remaining.