Fresno Leader

Representative Jim Costa, actively serving California's 21st district in the U.S. Congress, has taken to social media to address significant legislative issues impacting his constituents. Costa, who has a long-standing history in both state and national politics, has voiced concerns about healthcare, voting rights, and nutrition programs through a series of recent statements.

On April 10, 2025, Costa shared insights from a telephone town hall, emphasizing feedback from a constituent named Jill in Fresno. He highlighted concerns over Medicaid (Medi-Cal) cuts, stating that these reductions "don’t just hurt patients—they ripple through our hospitals, clinics, and health centers." His call to action underscored the necessity to "protect this lifeline" for the community (link).

Later that day, Costa criticized a bill promoted by House Republicans concerning voting rights. He argued that the legislation, intended to prevent non-citizens from voting—a practice already prohibited by law—actually imposes additional burdens on "married women, military service members, and other eligible citizens." Costa suggested these barriers create challenges for citizens trying to exercise their voting rights (link).

Costa also addressed proposed budget cuts of $230 billion to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), affecting over 131,000 families within his district. He pointed out the paradox of high hunger rates in the San Joaquin Valley, an area known for its agricultural productivity, arguing that such cuts represent "a step backward" rather than a solution (link).

These posts reflect Costa's ongoing commitment to his district, which he has represented since 2005, following a career extending back to the California State Assembly and Senate. Costa, born in Fresno, California, in 1952, continues to advocate for his constituents' welfare from his home city.