California State Senate

California Senate District 34

California
State
Election

about this guide

To help voters better understand where each candidate stands on issues that matter to people of faith, candidates were invited to respond to a set of specific questions. Their answers are presented below in their own words, without commentary or endorsement, so that voters can weigh each candidate's positions and make an informed decision.

Candidates

Pick candidates to set them head-to-head and compare their answers on the issues, side by side (the candidates will sort in alphabetical order).
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answer

Avelino Valencia

Democrat
D

Rhonda Shader

Republican
R

How did they answer?

Candidates were asked specific questions to help voters better understand their views on issues important to people of faith.

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Avelino Valencia
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Select up to six candidates above and their answers to key issues will appear here, side by side.
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The issues

Avelino Valencia

Avelino Valencia

Democrat
D
Clear Selection

Rhonda Shader

Republican
R
Clear Selection

The issues

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Voter ID

Share your view on the 2026 California ballot proposition that requires voters to show a government-issued photo identification to vote.
Did not answer
No response was submitted for this question.
I strongly support Voter ID and will be actively campaigning for this to pass

Budget

Share your views on California's budget shortfalls and mounting debt. Do you favor cutting spending, raising taxes, or a mix of both to achieve fiscal responsibility?
Did not answer
No response was submitted for this question.
To vote no on budgets that increase spending or raise taxes and to make suggestions through bills that will reduce the deficit.

Israel

Share your view on America's support for Israel.
Did not answer
No response was submitted for this question.
I agree with this support and have had a history of supporting Israel and the Jewish people.

Border

What is your view of President Donald Trump's measures to enhance border security?
Did not answer
No response was submitted for this question.
I agree with the increased border security.

Marriage

In 2024, Californians voted to amend the state Constitution to establish marriage as a fundamental right regardless of sex. What is your view on this amendment?
Did not answer
No response was submitted for this question.
It is definitely not the definition of a biblical marriage.

Abortion

After the Supreme Court returned abortion policymaking to the states, do you believe that is the correct level of government to decide this issue, or should Congress or the Constitution establish a national standard?
Did not answer
No response was submitted for this question.
I am absolutely against abortion. I understand their decision from a constitutional standpoint that States should be making more decisions and the federal government less. I just don't like it.

Parental Rights

What is your view of the Supreme Court’s decision supporting a parents’ right to know about their child’s gender issues at school?
Did not answer
No response was submitted for this question.
I absolutely agree with this decision. Parents should be informed of all activities and decisions made at school.

Vaccines

What is your view of California's vaccine mandate for public school students?
Did not answer
No response was submitted for this question.
I think vaccines for standard childhood diseases is a good idea but do believe that this should be at the parents' choice and exemptions for any reason should be allowed.

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How Can I USE THIS VOTER GUIDE?

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