CA-31

Gilbert Cisneros made an unconventional journey to Congress, winning a $266 million lottery jackpot in 2010 before dedicating himself to public service and education philanthropy. The Navy veteran and former shipping company executive used his lottery winnings to establish a scholarship foundation for Hispanic students and fund educational initiatives across Southern California. He flipped a traditionally Republican district in Orange County during the 2018 blue wave, running on a platform of healthcare access, veterans' affairs, and education funding. Cisneros represents the changing demographics and political landscape of suburban Orange County, where his moderate Democratic approach appeals to diverse constituencies in this competitive swing district.