Santa Barbara, Calif. – After celebrating his re‑election, Rep. Salud Carbajal held a live online press call for local journalists to field questions about his agenda for the 24th congressional district.
Offshore drilling and federal oversight
Carbajal highlighted the recent restart of oil and gas production at the Sable Offshore project off the Gaviota Coast, which sits in federal waters. He warned that the administration’s decision to resume operations “ignores the environmental concerns of our community and threatens the health of our coastal waters.” The congressman said he will use every tool at his disposal – from committee hearings to appropriations leverage – to investigate what he called “corruption and abuse of power” surrounding the restart.
Republican leaders in Santa Barbara County pushed back, arguing that the company is operating legally and that the project brings jobs and revenue. “Using a political pulpit to attack a private company that follows the law is a bad look,” said James Fenkner, a local Republican activist.
Accountability and impeachment efforts
Carbajal also reiterated his intention to pursue impeachment proceedings against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, whom he has previously criticized for policy decisions he deems harmful to the district. While the impeachment effort remains symbolic at this stage, Carbajal said it reflects his commitment to holding federal officials accountable.
Immigration enforcement concerns
Addressing immigration, the congressman expressed opposition to aggressive tactics by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) that he believes “terrorize local communities.” He pledged to work with local law‑enforcement agencies to ensure that immigration enforcement respects the rights of residents.
Support for families
When asked about the most pressing issue for his constituents, Carbajal emphasized the cost‑of‑living crisis. He promised to champion legislation that eases housing affordability, expands child‑care assistance, and protects small businesses from rising operational costs.
Carbajal concluded by noting that Democrats are expected to hold a large majority in the upcoming Congress, which he believes will enable swift action on the priorities he outlined.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
