Candidates vying for the 19th Congressional District seat recently discussed their positions on housing affordability, immigration policy, and the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The district encompasses parts of Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, and Monterey Counties, extending into northern San Luis Obispo County to include communities such as San Miguel, Paso Robles, and Atascadero.
Incumbent Democrat Jimmy Panetta is seeking to retain his seat against Republican challenger Peter Coe Verbica. Both candidates acknowledged that addressing the high cost of housing is a shared priority.
Congressman Panetta proposed reintroducing a federal tax credit designed to assist first-time homebuyers. He noted his own experience of utilizing a $10,000 federal tax credit when he and his wife purchased their first home, a program that concluded in 2006. Panetta advocated for the revival of this initiative, suggesting the new credit be increased to $15,000. Conversely, Verbica identified environmental regulations as a significant contributor to current housing expenses. He stated that reforms to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) are necessary. Verbica also pointed out that California home prices were on par with national averages until the early 1970s, connecting the passage of CEQA to the subsequent rise in housing costs.
The candidates also articulated their stances on ICE operations and broader immigration reform. Panetta clarified his approach to funding for ICE, indicating that he has not voted for such funding unless the agency implements specific reforms. These reforms, as outlined by Panetta, should include common-sense procedural changes such as officers removing masks, ensuring cameras are active during operations, and securing proper warrants before actions. Verbica commented that immigration reform is long overdue, expressing a belief that the system needs to operate with greater humanity and civility, suggesting significant improvements are possible.
In terms of professional background, Jimmy Panetta has served as a U.S. Representative for nine and a half years. His prior experience includes working as a State Department Clerk in Alameda County and as a Deputy District Attorney in Monterey County. Peter Coe Verbica's professional background includes his role as Managing Director at Silicon Private Wealth. He also has local educational experience, having taught at San Jose State University, and previously sought election for the Board of Equalization.
Addressing his approach to representation, Panetta stated that he represents all residents across the congressional district, emphasizing that his role is to serve everyone, not solely those of one political party. Verbica, while identifying as a registered Republican, described himself as an independent thinker.
