Riverbank, CA…11/04/2026 – Michael Masuda acknowledged his defeat in the election for California’s 5th Congressional District and issued the following statement.

“I concede the race for California’s 5th Congressional District,” Masuda said. “This is not the result we worked for, and I know how much it means to everyone who gave their time and energy to this campaign. I’m disappointed, but I’m deeply grateful to the people who believed in me and in what we could accomplish together.”

Masuda’s campaign focused on lowering costs for working families, expanding access to quality healthcare and strengthening rural communities. Through town halls and conversations with residents across the district, he emphasized practical solutions and representation that listens to the people it serves.

“To our volunteers and staff, thank you for every door you knocked, every call you made and every long day you put into this effort,” Masuda said. “To everyone who contributed, shared our message or trusted me with your vote, I’m grateful. And to my wife and family, thank you for the love and support that carried me through this campaign.”
Raised in rural Amador County, Masuda drew on his experience as an electrical engineer and former State Department Foreign Affairs Officer throughout the race.

“This campaign gave me the chance to hear directly from neighbors about what is working in their lives and what needs to change,” Masuda said. “I heard from people worried about paying their bills, getting the healthcare they need and keeping their communities safe.”

“Together, we’ve laid a foundation that future campaigns can build on: relationships, trust and a network of people determined to make their communities heard,” Masuda said. “That work will continue beyond this election. Our communities will not stand by and accept being left behind. They deserve representation that listens, shows up and fights for their future.”

Masuda closed by thanking the communities that welcomed the campaign.

“This is my home, and these are my neighbors. I’m proud of the work we did and grateful for the conversations, friendships and trust that grew out of it,” he said. “It has been an honor to run to represent you.”

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For more information on Michael Masuda:
VoteMasuda.com | press@votemasuda.com