Fresno-based businessman Ricardo Franco will announce on Wednesday his candidacy for the 22nd US Congressional district, becoming the second challenger for incumbent Devin Nunes (R-Visalia).

Franco, a Democrat, said he has been encouraged to seek political office for a while and decided to jump into the political arena for the 2018 election. He said elected officials should be open to all constituents.

“When elected officials become out-of-touch with the concerns and needs of common citizens, it is time for a new path,” he said. “When I see the great people of this Valley being ignored, I simply refuse to stand on the sidelines any longer.”

Nunes, chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, has been criticized for not hosting local town hall meetings. His Visalia and Fresno offices have been subject to protests. Previously, a Nunes spokesperson said the congressman makes frequent appearances on a local radio show and takes unscreened calls.

Nunes also hosted a public forum on water. He has also appeared at local fundraisers.

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A Clovis West grad, Franco went on to receive his degree from the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania. After college, Franco returned to the Central Valley and went into business.

“From small mom and pop stores to our farming enterprise and large multi-national corporations, listening and responding to the needs of constituents is critical to success in the Valley,” he said. “Health care, job development, and respect for social justice are critical to a vibrant community. That’s why I’m running for Congress in [California] 22.”

Franco said his platform includes reduction of taxes on small and medium-sized businesses and middle-class families. He also said large corporations must pay their fair share of taxes and regulations should be about helping businesses with compliance.

On health care, Franco said he wants a movement toward universal and maintain the protections for consumers of the Affordable Care Act.

Franco said he also wants comprehensive immigration reforms, providing legal means for all immigrants in the US to work and pay taxes and prioritizing immigrants with skills defined by employees.

Franco’s platform also includes working with stakeholders and improving water storage and delivery systems.

With Franco, there are now two candidates challenging Nunes. Previously, Andrew Janz, a Fresno prosecutor, announced his intention to run.

The 22nd California congressional district includes parts of Tulare and Fresno counties.

How to Attend:

What: Ricardo Franco candidacy announcement

When: 7 p.m., Wednesday.

Where: Clovis Veterans Memorial District, 808 Fourth St., Clovis.

Online: www.ricofranco.com; www.facebook.com/RicoFrancoforCongress/