On the Record: Silicon Valley’s Congressional District 16

Silicon Valley’s first competitive congressional race in more than two decades is the most highly-anticipated contest this election season — and ballots are already in the mail.

In a month, voters will narrow a field of 11 contenders to two candidates who will face off in November for California’s 16th congressional district. The competition is stiff, with Silicon Valley’s most recognizable politicians vying for a shot to replace retiring Rep. Anna Eshoo — from a longtime San Jose mayor to a veteran county supervisor and a trailblazing legislator.

San José Spotlight asked readers what they want to know about the candidates. We received more than 100 questions from readers for the candidates and narrowed it down to eight that capture a range of critical national issues — from immigration to foreign policy and partisan gridlock in Washington.

The candidates’ responses are presented below in alphabetical order by first name, and have been edited for clarity. The graphic can be enlarged.

We did not receive responses from candidates Greg Lin Tanaka, Peter Ohtaki and Karl Ryan.

Election Day is March 5, with ballots being mailed this week.

Read candidates’ full answers here: Ahmed Mostafa │ Evan Low │ Joby Bernstein │ Joe Simitian │ Julie Lythcott-Haims │ Peter Dixon │ Rishi Kumar │ Sam Liccardo