Mike Thompson — Democrat Candidate for U.S. House in California, 2026
Last updated: March 4, 2026
Mike's Positions on Key Issues
Economy
HighMike Thompson supports a jobs plan focused on investments in infrastructure, energy, and education to foster long-term economic growth. He helped pass the largest infrastructure investment in 50 years and authored significant clean energy and energy efficiency legislation. He also co-authored legislation to freeze student loan interest rates, aiming to save families approximately $1,000 annually. Thompson has criticized tariffs for driving up living costs for Americans and voted to end "emergency" tariffs on Canada.
“Tonight, I voted to end this president’s so-called ‘emergency’ tariffs on Canada, and the House successfully passed the bill. These tariffs have hurt our agricultural producers and small businesses, driven up costs for consumers, and damaged our country's important relationship with our closest neighbor and ally. At a time when families are already facing higher prices, we should be lowering costs and strengthening partnerships, not fighting with our allies. Today’s vote is an important step toward restoring stability, reclaiming Congress’ authority over tariffs, and reinforcing the strong economic ties that benefit both of our nations." — Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04), mikethompson.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/thompson-issues-statement-voting-end-presidents-emergency-tariffs-canada (February 23, 2026)”
Immigration
HighMike Thompson advocates for comprehensive immigration reform, including pathways to citizenship and guest worker programs for agricultural workers. He introduced legislation to expand citizenship opportunities for immigrant veterans and their families. Thompson also joined efforts to introduce articles of impeachment against Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, citing concerns that unchecked federal enforcement by DHS and ICE puts lives at risk. He believes immigration strengthens the nation, but the current system needs fair and practical policies.
“America is a nation of immigrants, and we are a stronger nation because of it. However, our current immigration system is broken and in need of repair. We need comprehensive reform that that rewards individuals who play by the rules, allows children of immigrants to get a college education, provides a pathway to citizenship for families who have been here for generations, and establishes a guest worker program for those here doing jobs Americans don’t want to do. - Rep. Mike Thompson, mikethompsonforcongress.com”
Healthcare
HighMike Thompson supports extending Affordable Care Act tax credits, warning that their expiration would significantly increase premiums for 24 million Americans. He voted against a government funding bill, criticizing its failure to address rising healthcare costs and undo Medicaid cuts. Thompson introduced the American Affordability Act to lower costs, believing healthcare is a right that should be accessible and affordable for all. He also criticized H.R. 1 for its $1 trillion cut to Medicaid and making medical education less affordable.
“I believe health care is a right. Congress must work to help everyone in America gain access to quality, affordable health care." - Mike Thompson, mikethompson.house.gov/issues/health-care”
Climate & Energy
HighMike Thompson introduced legislation with colleagues to designate the Bay Area Ridge Trail as a National Scenic Trail, enhancing recreation and connecting routes. He criticized the EPA's decision to exclude human life from cost-benefit analyses in rulemaking, stating it compromises environmental protection and undervalues human life. Thompson also works to restore wetland habitats, protect the National Wildlife Refuge System, and was endorsed by the League of Conservation Voters Action Fund.
““Great to meet with the Putah Creek Council at Glide Ranch to learn more about their work restoring and protecting the Putah Creek watershed. Grateful for the leadership of Phil Stevens and their board as they connect our community to hands-on environmental stewardship." Mike Thompson, Wine Country Times, February 20, 2026”
Abortion & Reproductive Rights
HighRepresentative Mike Thompson voted to pass the Women's Health Protection Act (H.R. 8296) and the Ensuring Women's Right to Reproductive Freedom Act (H.R. 8297). He believes access to comprehensive health care, including abortion, should not depend on one's location. Thompson supports these measures to protect the health, well-being, and autonomy of women, ensuring individuals can make their own decisions about their lives and futures.
“When the Supreme Court released their decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, they laid the groundwork for states to criminalize abortion and strip health care away from millions of women," said Thompson. "The Supreme Court's dangerous decision turns back the clock and strips rights away from Americans. My granddaughters will now have fewer rights than their grandmother. Access to reproductive care protects the health, well-being, and autonomy of women — that is why action to reverse the Supreme Court's misguided ruling is imperative.”
Foreign Policy
HighMike Thompson has voiced opposition to unauthorized military actions, particularly those without Congressional approval, citing constitutional requirements. He voted for the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which he states helps limit unilateral presidential military decisions. He also voted to repeal the 2002 authorization for the use of military force against Iraq and supported HR 3565 to prevent funding offensive weapons for Israel.
““In the dead of night, President Trump started an unauthorized, unconstitutional war with Iran. As a combat veteran, I know the terrible realities of war and I am deeply opposed to any unprovoked strikes carried out without Congressional authorization — authorization that is explicitly required by our constitution.” — Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04), Press Release, February 28, 2026 (Source: http://mikethompson.house.gov/issues/national-defense)”
Gun Policy
HighMike Thompson chairs the House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force. He advocates for universal background checks, leading legislation to close the Charleston loophole and establish universal background checks for firearm purchases. He also led 130 Democrats in a letter urging action to address gun violence and expressed concerns about the elevation of Kash Patel to Acting Director of the ATF. Thompson is endorsed by Giffords, an organization supporting strong gun safety laws.
“I'm sickened by the senseless shooting at Annunciation Catholic School’s mass this morning in Minneapolis. My heart is with the families who have lost their children today and with all of those injured while praying." - Mike Thompson, his official House website, in response to a mass shooting.”
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