ince taking office in 2003, Congressman Dennis Cardoza (D-Merced) has established himself as a strong leader who delivers results for the Central Valley and California’s 18th Congressional District.A fiscal conservative, Cardoza serves as Co-Chair of the Blue Dog Coalition, a prominent group of 37 moderate to conservative Democrats who are committed to balancing the federal budget and paying down the national debt.

The Blue Dogs have put forward a 12 step plan of common-sense reforms to reign in spending and put America’s fiscal house back in order.Dennis Cardoza- bio- Cardoza in orchardNow in his second term,Cardoza has established a reputation as a highly effective legislator who reaches across party lines to achieve needed reforms. He has taken bold steps to modernize and strengthen the Endangered Species Act, support valley farmers, and to provide tax relief for middle class families.

Cardoza has delivered significant federal investment in Central Valley infrastructure. In the 2005 Transportation bill, Cardoza secured over $25 million in federal funding for vital highway projects throughout the 18th Congressional District.Cardoza played a leading role in the establishment of UC Merced, a world-class research university that opened its doors in the fall of 2005.