Setting It Straight: This article has been updated to correct an error in the original story that was published in the Merced County Times. Mike Murphy, the former mayor of Merced, has filed paperwork to run for the 27th Assembly District in 2026. He is not a candidate for the 14th State Senate District in 2026.
Assemblywoman Esmeralda Soria has tossed her hat in the ring for California’s 14th State Senate District in 2026.
“I first ran for the State Assembly, to solve the problems that have frustrated Central Valley families and small businesses for too long,” she said in an announcement this week. “I’m proud of what has been accomplished, from protecting Madera Community Hospital to voting against increases on gas prices and delivering millions for affordable housing. The Central Valley is my home, and I have spent my entire career fighting for our working families, farmers, small businesses, and veterans. The State Senate is an opportunity to continue our work and do even more for the valley.”
Soria was present at the big Sunrise Rotary Shrimp Feed last Saturday night at the Merced Fairgrounds, and during the event she told the Times that she was “all in” for the Senate seat.
Sen. Anna Caballero currently represents the 14th District, but she will be termed out of the Legislature after 2026. The 14th District covers most of Merced County, including the West Side, much of the city of Fresno, the western half of Fresno County, and parts of Madera County.
So far in the 2026 race, Soria will face Nelson Esparza, a fellow Fresno Democrat and city councilman. Both are expected to compete fiercely for statewide party support, as well as local fundraising dollars.
Soria is in her second term representing Assembly District 27, covering parts of Fresno, Madera and Merced counties. She will begin her Senate campaign with an endorsement from Caballero and backing from over 50 community leaders.
“Esmeralda Soria is the fighter that the Central Valley needs in the Senate,” said State Senator Anna Caballero. “In the Assembly, she’s proven that she can bring resources home, stand up for working families, and deliver real results. I know she will continue that leadership in the Senate, and I am proud to support her.”
In addition to serving as Chair of the Agriculture Committee, Soria has delivered funding and legislative wins for the Central Valley, including:
• $300 million to keep hospitals open, including Madera Community Hospital
• $140 million for public safety, emergency operations centers, and housing
• $120 million for flood recovery in impacted communities
• Expanding veterans’ benefits and fighting unfair taxation on military pensions
“This campaign is about all of us — our families, our future, and the values we share,” Soria said this week. “With your support, I know we can win this race and continue making real, lasting change for the Central Valley.”