DCCC turns to benchwarmer in CA-21

After two high-profile recruiting blunders in California’s 21^st Congressional District, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee is getting desperate. Yesterday, Roll Call reported that national Democrats have reluctantly turned to their third choice in the district: Daniel T. Parra, Mayor Pro-Tem of Fowler. However, Parra still harbors some reservations about running.

According to the Fresno Bee, Parra won’t run “if he’s simply viewed as a token challenger” and is demanding that the DCCC be “fully committed” to his campaign. However, a quick look at Parra’s record shows exactly why he was the DCCC’s third choice and unlikely to be considered a serious contender.

In 2014, Parra ran for County Supervisor, losing by an astounding 24 points after barely squeaking through the primary by 243 votes.  Additionally, Parra’s fundraising skills were lackluster, raising only $119,000 for the race, while his opponent raked in more than $500,000.

With Democrats losing by double digit margins in two consecutive elections, does the DCCC really think third-stringer Parra has a shot in the 21^st District?

NRCC Comment: “After back-to-back double digit losses in the 21^st District, the DCCC is in real trouble if failed candidate Daniel Parra is the best they can do. As legitimate candidates decline to run, it appears that only a Democratic benchwarmer is willing to be the DCCC’s sacrificial lamb in 2016.” –NRCC Spokesman Zach Hunter