Jim Shoemaker

Jim Shoemaker

Republican Party

Candidate, U.S. House California District 9

Elections and appointments

Next election

November 3, 2026

Personal

Birthplace

California

Religion

Christian

Profession

Businessman

Contact

Campaign website

Campaign Twitter

Campaign Instagram

Personal Instagram

Jim Shoemaker (Republican Party) is running for election to the U.S. House to represent California's 9th Congressional District. He declared candidacy for the 2026 election.^[source]

Biography

Jim Shoemaker was born in San Pedro, California. His career experience includes being a businessman, trucker, and tradesman. Shoemaker has been affiliated with the California Republican Assembly and NRA.

Elections

2026

See also: California's 9th Congressional District election, 2026

Note: At this time, Ballotpedia is combining all declared candidates for this election into one list under a general election heading. As primary election dates are published, this information will be updated to separate general election candidates from primary candidates as appropriate.

General election

The general election will occur on November 3, 2026.

General election for U.S. House California District 9

Incumbent Josh Harder, Kevin Lincoln II, John McBride, and Jim Shoemaker are running in the general election for U.S. House California District 9 on November 3, 2026.

		Candidate
		Josh Harder (D)
		Kevin Lincoln II (R)
		John McBride (R)
		Jim Shoemaker (R)

---

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined.
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Endorsements

Ballotpedia is gathering information about candidate endorsements. To send us an endorsement, click here.

2024

See also: California State Senate elections, 2024

General election

General election for California State Senate District 5

Jerry McNerney defeated Jim Shoemaker in the general election for California State Senate District 5 on November 5, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Jerry McNerney (D)	52.9	189,668
		Jim Shoemaker (R)	47.1	169,136

---

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 358,804
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Nonpartisan primary election

Nonpartisan primary for California State Senate District 5

Jim Shoemaker and Jerry McNerney defeated Carlos Villapudua in the primary for California State Senate District 5 on March 5, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Jim Shoemaker (R)	43.7	75,630
✔		Jerry McNerney (D)	33.2	57,435
		Carlos Villapudua (D)	23.1	39,958

---

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 173,023
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

• Edith Villapudua (D)
• Rhodesia Ransom (D)

Endorsements

Shoemaker received the following endorsements.

• California GOP

2022

See also: California's 9th Congressional District election, 2022

General election

General election for U.S. House California District 9

Incumbent Josh Harder defeated Tom Patti in the general election for U.S. House California District 9 on November 8, 2022.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Josh Harder (D)	54.8	95,598
		Tom Patti (R)	45.2	78,802

---

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 174,400
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Nonpartisan primary election

Nonpartisan primary for U.S. House California District 9

The following candidates ran in the primary for U.S. House California District 9 on June 7, 2022.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Josh Harder (D)	36.7	39,026
✔		Tom Patti (R)	29.0	30,843
		Jim Shoemaker (R)	14.5	15,443
		Harpreet Chima (D)	7.9	8,433
	Submit photo	Jonathan Madison (R)	5.6	5,992
		Khalid Jeffrey Jafri (D)	3.0	3,174
		Karena Feng (D)	2.5	2,632
		Mark Andrews (Independent)	0.7	758

---

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 106,301
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Campaign themes

2026

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Jim Shoemaker has not yet completed Ballotpedia's 2026 Candidate Connection survey. Send a message to Jim Shoemaker asking him to fill out the survey. If you are Jim Shoemaker, click here to fill out Ballotpedia's 2026 Candidate Connection survey.

Who fills out Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey?

Any candidate running for elected office, at any level, can complete Ballotpedia's Candidate Survey. Completing the survey will update the candidate's Ballotpedia profile, letting voters know who they are and what they stand for.  More than 22,000 candidates have taken Ballotpedia's candidate survey since we launched it in 2015. Learn more about the survey here.

You can ask Jim Shoemaker to fill out this survey by using the buttons below or emailing admin@shoemaker4congress.com.

2024

Jim Shoemaker completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Shoemaker's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Expand all | Collapse all

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

My background experience includes growing up working on a farm, managing custom harvesting, driving trucks as a member of the Teamsters Union, and eventually owning my truck. I worked various positions in construction, becoming foreman and business owner. I believe a statesman should be a servant of the people. I have served as local President of the California Republican Assembly and as State Vice President. I have been involved in grassroots efforts, consistently advocating for common sense constitutional legislation and ballot propositions and helping constitutional candidates run for public office. As a native Californian, I understand the heavy burden taxpayers face and prioritize accountability over wasting taxpayer money on expanding programs. Inflation is out of control, and the cost of living is crushing our families. I am committed to bringing back prosperity to California. The average Californian should be able to live in our great state without struggling to make ends meet.  Instead of fleeing California, I am committed to staying in this battle to restore our state. My wife, Joanie, and I raised our family here, and have deep roots in this beautiful state. I ask for your support to take back California.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

• Addressing Crime

  We cannot afford to underestimate the severity of crimes committed against our citizens and businesses. Perpetrators of theft and assault must be prosecuted to the fullest extent. The existing laws that inadvertently allow such crimes to proliferate should be repealed. SOLUTIONS- Strengthening law enforcement and prosecution: - Advocate for stricter penalties and sentences for crimes such as theft and assault. - Support comprehensive training programs for law enforcement officers to effectively handle and prevent crimes.

  - Push for adequate funding for law enforcement agencies to ensure they have the necessary resources and staff to address criminal activities effectively.
• Protection of Children and Parental Rights Our utmost priority should be ensuring the safety of our children from radical ideologies and safeguarding the rights of parents to raise them. It is essential that we avoid any form of co-parenting with the government. SOLUTIONS- Protecting children and preserving parental rights: - Advocate for policies that support parental rights, ensuring parents have the final say in their children's upbringing. - Support laws that address radical ideologies in educational systems or organizations targeting children. - Promote safe online environments for children, with stricter regulations for online content and activities.
• Preservation of Freshwater Freshwater is an invaluable natural resource that should not be squandered by diverting it to the ocean. To prepare for unforeseen droughts and support our farmers in feeding the nation, it is crucial to protect this valuable resource through responsible preservation and storage. SOLUTIONS- Proper preservation and management of freshwater resources: - Encourage sustainable practices such as water recycling, rainwater harvesting, and efficient irrigation techniques. - Support the development and implementation of better storage systems, including reservoirs and water management infrastructure. - Invest in research and technology to better understand and manage water scarcity and droughts.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Addressing the current crime policy is top priority. Prop 47 must be rescinded or amended under the current policy. Prop 47 violates the Constitution, which states criminals, must be prosecuted. Currently certain drugs & property offenses are considered misdemeanors instead of felonies. We need to start prosecuting crime again.

What qualities does this office possess that makes it a unique and important part of the state government and legal system?

It's the highest branch of the legislature & the voice of the people.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

The Bible, Constitution, & the Lesser Magistrate

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

When considering the characteristics and principles that are most important for an elected official, several key aspects come to mind.

First and foremost, honesty is an essential trait. An elected official must possess the integrity to always speak the truth, even if it is unpopular or inconvenient. This trustworthiness is crucial for building credibility and maintaining the faith of the public.

Additionally, unwavering values are crucial for an elected official. They must have a solid moral compass and consistently uphold the principles they campaigned on. By staying true to their beliefs, they can effectively represent the interests and concerns of their constituents. Possessing a deep conviction of truth, rooted in a higher power or personal values, is an important characteristic for elected officials. This conviction acts as a moral compass, guiding decision-making and shaping actions. Individuals with a strong moral consciousness are more likely to prioritize integrity, honesty, and transparency, establishing and maintaining public trust.

An elected official must also remain independent and not be influenced by money or external pressures. Financial or corporate interests should not sway their decisions or compromise their dedication to serving the people. By putting the needs of the public first, an elected official can ensure that their actions are always in the best interest of those they represent.

Having a solid stance on issues is important for an elected official. They must be knowledgeable about the subjects under their jurisdiction and take well-informed positions. This demonstrates their commitment to understanding the complexities of the matters at hand and making informed decisions.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

Hard-working, stand on principles, unwavering stances on policies, approachable, committed, faith in a higher power.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

First and foremost, upholding the oath of office is vital. This means faithfully executing their duties and acting in the best interest of the people they represent, demonstrating accountability and a commitment to serving the public.

Elected officials have a crucial role in representing the people within the boundaries and freedoms outlined in the Constitution. This entails actively listening to constituents, understanding their concerns, and effectively advocating for their interests. Building consensus, being responsive, and bridging the gap between the people and the government are essential to ensure accountability and responsiveness in governance.

In summary, the most important qualities for elected officials include upholding the oath of office, representing constituents effectively within constitutional limits, and embodying a deep conviction of truth rooted in a higher power or personal values. These attributes ensure that elected officials serve the public interest, act as responsible representatives, and make decisions based on principles of integrity and accountability.

What legacy would you like to leave?

As a senator, my aspiration is to establish a legacy that prioritizes the well-being of California's citizens over the interests of special interest groups. I aim to foster an environment where families can amass wealth and prosperity, and ensuring that businesses flourish and remain within our state. By cutting income taxes for working individuals, they can keep more of their money and spend it how they see fit Additionally, I will strive for improved management of our valuable water resources, discouraging wastage through unnecessary dumping. It is imperative that we prioritize the prosecution of criminals to prevent the prevalence of theft and drug-related issues within our cities. Finally, I firmly believe that families should raise their children without government intervention.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

At 4 years old, I went to the New York World Fair with my family.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

I sold popcorn with my father when I was five years old.

What is your favorite book? Why?

The Bible is my favorite book because it serves as a guide for my faith and provides valuable teachings on morality, spirituality, history, and politics. It defines my relationship with God and gives me a sense of purpose and direction in life. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of recognizing that our ultimate authority comes from God, not from elected officials or any human institution.

"The Doctrine of the Lesser Magistrates" is another favorite book of mine because it presents a thought-provoking perspective on the role of civil government. It emphasizes the idea that elected officials should serve the people and not attempt to rule over their lives. It highlights the concept of limited obedience to civil government when they enact unjust or immoral laws or decrees. This book challenges the idea of blind and unlimited obedience to authority and encourages individuals to take an active stance in resisting tyranny when necessary.

Both of these books align with my beliefs about the importance of recognizing God's ultimate authority and the need for individuals to exercise discernment and stand up against unjust or immoral actions. They provide valuable insights into morality, ethics, and civic responsibility, which are key factors in why they are my favorite books.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

One of the challenges I have encountered in my life was the early loss of my father. This circumstance compelled me to take on the responsibility of navigating life independently and develop a strong work ethic from a young age. I began my journey by working on a farm, subsequently transitioning to occupations as a truck driver, construction worker, and involvement in the financial sector. Eventually, I became a business owner. Without the presence of a paternal figure, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery in the areas of hard work and entrepreneurship. Nonetheless, with steadfast faith and a robust belief system, I was guided towards the right path.

Are there any little-known powers or responsibilities held by this office that you believe more people should be aware of?

Previous elected officials in this office did not vote in the way that represented the voice of their constituents. They get elected into office and served special interest groups and not the people.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for holders of this office to have previous experience in government or politics?

Experienced politicians have frequently exhibited their shortcomings as representatives for the constituents they claim to represent, often succumbing to the influence of special interest groups once elected into office. Conversely, an individual with a profound understanding of constitutional principles, the Bill of Rights, and political affairs, despite lacking prior governmental experience, has the potential to emerge as an outstanding champion for the public's interests.

What kind of skills or expertise do you believe would be the most helpful for the holders of this office to possess?

The most beneficial skills or expertise for individuals holding this office would include a firsthand experience of life as an ordinary citizen, with common sense, along with a comprehensive understanding of business, finance, and politics. It is crucial for them to comprehend the intricacies of political operations, the monetary influences involved in politics and the process of electing officials, as well as the dynamics of politicians being influenced or influenced by external forces. Moreover, possessing the ability to navigate this complex landscape while maintaining high moral standards is of utmost importance.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Moms for America, Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association, California Rifle & Pistol Association, California Parents Union, CAGOP, California Republican Assembly, Impact Republicans, Ted Gaines, Congressman Kevin Kiley

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

Government must be transparent in all their spending, the money belongs to We the People

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

2022

Jim Shoemaker did not complete Ballotpedia's 2022 Candidate Connection survey.

Campaign finance summary

---

Note: The finance data shown here comes from the disclosures required of candidates and parties. Depending on the election or state, this may represent only a portion of all the funds spent on their behalf. Satellite spending groups may or may not have expended funds related to the candidate or politician on whose page you are reading this disclaimer. Campaign finance data from elections may be incomplete. For elections to federal offices, complete data can be found at the FEC website. Click here for more on federal campaign finance law and here for more on state campaign finance law.

---

Jim Shoemaker campaign contribution history

Year	Office	Status	Contributions	Expenditures
2026*	U.S. House California District 9	Candidacy Declared general	$6,878	$5,562
2024*	California State Senate District 5	Lost general	$144,586	$87,470
2022	U.S. House California District 9	Lost primary	$27,652	$26,871
Grand total			$179,116	$119,903
Sources: OpenSecrets,  Federal Elections Commission ***This product uses the openFEC API but is not endorsed or certified by the Federal Election Commission (FEC).
* Data from this year may not be complete

See also

2026 Elections

What's on the ballot? U.S. Congress U.S. Congress special elections State executives State legislatures State courts Ballot measures Municipal government School boards Election analysis hub

Government

Who represents me? U.S. Congress State executives State legislators State courts Ballot measures Municipal government School boards

Newsletters

The Daily Brew The Weekly Brew The Ballot Bulletin Checks and Balances Economy and Society Hall Pass Number of the Day Robe & Gavel Union Station

External links

Search Google News for this topic

Candidate

U.S. House California District 9

Website

Twitter

Instagram

Personal

Instagram

Footnotes

[show]

California's current delegation to the United States Congress

Senators

Alex Padilla (D)

Adam Schiff (D)

Representatives

District 1

Doug LaMalfa (R)

District 2

Jared Huffman (D)

District 3

Kevin Kiley (R)

District 4

Mike Thompson (D)

District 5

Tom McClintock (R)

District 6

Ami Bera (D)

District 7

Doris Matsui (D)

District 8

John Garamendi (D)

District 9

Josh Harder (D)

District 10

Mark DeSaulnier (D)

District 11

Nancy Pelosi (D)

District 12

Lateefah Simon (D)

District 13

Adam Gray (D)

District 14

Eric Swalwell (D)

District 15

Kevin Mullin (D)

District 16

Sam Liccardo (D)

District 17

Ro Khanna (D)

District 18

Zoe Lofgren (D)

District 19

Jimmy Panetta (D)

District 20

Vince Fong (R)

District 21

Jim Costa (D)

District 22

David Valadao (R)

District 23

Jay Obernolte (R)

District 24

Salud Carbajal (D)

District 25

Raul Ruiz (D)

District 26

Julia Brownley (D)

District 27

George Whitesides (D)

District 28

Judy Chu (D)

District 29

Luz Rivas (D)

District 30

Laura Friedman (D)

District 31

Gil Cisneros (D)

District 32

Brad Sherman (D)

District 33

Pete Aguilar (D)

District 34

Jimmy Gomez (D)

District 35

Norma Torres (D)

District 36

Ted Lieu (D)

District 37

Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D)

District 38

Linda Sánchez (D)

District 39

Mark Takano (D)

District 40

Young Kim (R)

District 41

Ken Calvert (R)

District 42

Robert Garcia (D)

District 43

Maxine Waters (D)

District 44

Nanette Barragán (D)

District 45

Derek Tran (D)

District 46

Lou Correa (D)

District 47

Dave Min (D)

District 48

Darrell Issa (R)

District 49

Mike Levin (D)

District 50

Scott Peters (D)

District 51

Sara Jacobs (D)

District 52

Juan Vargas (D)

Democratic Party (45)

Republican Party (9)