BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — Senator Melissa Hurtado was first elected to the state Senate in 2018 and became the youngest woman ever elected to the body. Eight years later, Hurtado was appointed the chair for a Budget subcommittee focused on general government and State Administration.

The committee oversees the budget and spending of close to 80 different California agencies.

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“As we know, that’s been, you know, quite a bit of a controversy in terms of the amount of funds that have been put out and whether or not there’s been effective … I think there’s a lot more that needs to be done, a lot of more oversight and accountability,” said Hurtado.

The subcommittee keeps Hurtado on her toes, but she has some priorities for helping the district in 2026.

Her main focus is property tax fraud — even as the state budget faces a deficit.

“I think there’s a lot more that needs to be done, a lot of more oversight and accountability. And that’s how we got the year started this time around,” Hurtado said. “Quite frankly, it’s something that needs to … there needs to be an oversight over because it’s impacting our pocketbooks.”

Hurtado announced a bid for her third earlier this year. But there’s one thing between the Senator and another four years in Sacramento — a heated June Primary election.

“I feel like I have the knowledge, the experience, the background, the will,” said Hurtado. “And I still have, you know, the motivation and the interest to serve the people through this period. And that’s why I decided to do it. I think we need someone that is not afraid to tell very powerful people ‘no,’ I’m not afraid to do that.”

Hurtado is set to face off against Bakersfield Vice Mayor and Democrat Manpreet Kaur and former David Valadao staffer Republican Guillermo Gonzalez.

Hurtado said she welcomes the challenge.

“In terms of, you know, what I’ve been able to accomplish, and I think that if there’s two other individuals, I think they could do more in this environment, I’d be happy to hear and listen as well and learn and take notes if necessary,” Hurtado said.

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Both Kaur and Gonzalez have criticized Hurtado for not doing enough to listen to constituents’ concerns.

“I trust the people and I put all my faith and their trust in them,” said Hurtado. “And I think they’ll ultimately make the right decision on who’s going to be the best advocate for them. And I truly feel that this June and in November, they’ll say that it’s me.”

To watch the extended interview with Senator Hurtado, click here.

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