Vince Fong, a U.S. Congressman representing California’s 20th district, has recently used his social media platform to highlight local educational achievements and comment on national policy issues.
On March 7, 2026, Fong praised student efforts at a regional skills competition, stating, “Great seeing the talent and determination of our local students at the Kern High School District’s Regional Occupational Center (ROC) 2nd Annual Industrial Tech Skills Challenge. Students put their hands-on skills to the test in welding, construction, automotive technology, and https://t.co/GDikU1RdJZ”.
Three days later, on March 10, Fong criticized Senate Democrats for not passing funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), referencing its impact on Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents. He wrote: “For 25 days, Senate Democrats have refused to pass bipartisan funding for DHS, which means @TSA agents – who are charged with preventing terror attacks – have gone without a paycheck for nearly a month. It’s not hard to understand – people don’t want to show up to work if https://t.co/fk5gSCfaYx”.
Later that day, Fong commented on state-level economic policy by attributing business departures from California to tax policies under Governor Gavin Newsom. He stated: “Yet another consequence of Gavin Newsom’s failed policies. You can’t levy $18 BILLION in hidden taxes against businesses and expect them to stick around. https://t.co/UxL2v5G0TX”.
The Regional Occupational Center (ROC) is part of Kern High School District in Bakersfield and offers career technical education programs designed to prepare students for workforce entry or further training after high school graduation. The Department of Homeland Security oversees agencies such as TSA; when federal funding lapses due to congressional impasses, employees may be required to work without pay until appropriations are restored—a recurring issue during government shutdowns in recent years. Governor Gavin Newsom has faced criticism from some lawmakers over California’s tax structure and regulatory environment; business groups have pointed out that high costs can contribute to companies relocating out of state.
