Congressional Debate CA14

On October 7, 2026, the Dublin Chamber of Commerce hosted a debate between U.S. Representative Aisha Wahab and BART Board President Melissa Hernandez at the Holiday Inn in Dublin. Moderated by KPIX journalist Juliette Goodrich, the forum focused on issues affecting residents and businesses across California’s 14th Congressional District, including housing affordability, the cost of living, immigration, public safety, campaign financing, and data center development.

Both candidates outlined their priorities and debated differing approaches to addressing the region’s challenges. The evening grew particularly contentious during closing statements when Hernandez criticized Wahab over her position on diplomatic engagement with the Taliban, prompting Wahab to call the remarks discriminatory. The debate provided voters an opportunity to hear the candidates’ positions ahead of the November congressional election.

Fremont Chamber CEO Teresa Hoang attended to hear the candidates’ perspectives on key issues affecting local businesses and residents while strengthening regional relationships and advocating for Fremont’s business community. Fremont is split across California's 14th congressional district and California's 17th congressional district.