Rep. Jim Costa, who represents California’s 21st district in the U.S. Congress, shared updates this week on his meetings and activities related to public leadership, agricultural education, and food security.
On April 17, Costa highlighted a meeting with Blake Zante, Executive Director of the Maddy Institute. In his post, he wrote: “This week, I had the pleasure of meeting with Blake Zante, Executive Director of the @MaddyInstitute. We discussed the institute’s vital role in preparing the next generation of public leaders in the San Joaquin Valley, as well as its work connecting students across the Central” (April 17, 2026).
Later that day, Costa reported on an engagement with Class 55 of the California Agricultural Leadership Program during their visit to Washington. He stated: “It was great to meet and speak with Class 55 of the California Agricultural Leadership Program during their visit to Washington this week. I had the opportunity to share my experience in Congress as a senior member of the House Agriculture Committee, discuss my priorities, and” (April 17, 2026).
In another post from April 17th regarding global hunger issues, Costa said: “Food insecurity is a global issue that demands serious, sustained attention. I was proud to join @bread4theworld for a bipartisan Food for Peace reception, where we highlighted the program’s critical role in combating global hunger and delivering lifesaving assistance to more” (April 17, 2026).
Costa has represented California’s 21st District since replacing Cal Dooley in Congress in 2005. Prior to his congressional service beginning in 2005,
he served in both chambers of California’s state legislature—from 1978 through 2002.
Born and residing in Fresno since his birth in 1952,
Costa graduated from California State University, Fresno with a bachelor’s degree.
