Democrat · California's 14th District · 2026
Melissa Hernandez
Hernandez grew up with six siblings in a family of farmworkers.
Biography
Melissa Hernandez grew up with six brothers and sisters in a family supported by migrant farmworker parents.1 Her campaign account describes earning her Cal State East Bay degree while working and raising her two children as a single mother.12 Dublin has been her home for more than thirty years.1
Her degree covered political science, public affairs and administration, and her private sector experience includes managing small businesses in dentistry and healthcare.1 She now directs healthcare services for Alameda County Supervisor David Haubert's office, working on access and community health initiatives.1
Hernandez became Dublin's first Latina mayor and later served on BART's board and in Valley Link leadership.1 Her mayoral work included the Axis Bridge mental health urgent care project and funding for a police behavioral health unit.1 Her transportation agenda emphasizes reliable trains and access for people who do not drive.1
She proposes housing construction incentives, assistance for buyers, expanded childcare support and paid family and medical leave.2 Her healthcare priorities include restoring insurance subsidies, protecting Medicare and supporting federal abortion access legislation.2 Hernandez and new incumbent Aisha Wahab, both Democrats, are the November finalists for a full term representing the East Bay district.3
Record and controversies
October debate remark
Hernandez's unfinished closing statement at an October 2026 debate appeared to accuse Wahab, an Afghan American, of communicating with the Taliban.4 Hernandez said she was referring to Wahab's support for U.S. diplomatic engagement with Afghanistan's rulers.4 Wahab called the remark a racist dog whistle.4