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Tiffanie Tate

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Tiffanie Tate
Candidate, U.S. House California District 40
Elections and appointments
Next election
November 3, 2026
Education
High school
Lynwood High School
Bachelor's
University of California at Santa Barbara, 1996
M.D.
Meharry Medical College, 2000
Military
Service / branch
U.S. Navy
Years of service
1997 - 2004
Personal
Religion
Christian
Profession
Doctor
Contact

Tiffanie Tate (Democratic Party) is running for election to the U.S. House to represent California's 40th Congressional District. She declared candidacy for the 2026 election.[source]

Tate also ran for election to the U.S. House to represent California's 41st Congressional District. She will not appear on the ballot for the general election on November 3, 2026.

Tate completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Tiffanie Tate served in the U.S. Navy from 1997 to 2004. She graduated from Lynwood High School. She earned a bachelor's degree from the University of California at Santa Barbara in 1996 and an M.D. from Meharry Medical College in 2000. Her career experience includes working as a doctor, author, and podcaster.[1]

Tate has been affiliated with the following organizations:[1]

  • Disabled American Veterans-Life, member
  • American Legion
  • NAACP, life member
  • Riverside Sunrise Rotary
  • Riverside Soroptimist
  • American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Fellow of the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • American Medical Association
  • National Medical Association
  • National Organization for Women
  • Societas Docta International
  • Association of Black Women Physicians
  • CA Congressional Black Caucus, life member
  • Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, life member
  • Momentum Park
  • Trustee-Second Birth Church

Elections

2026

U.S. House California District 40

See also: California's 40th 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 40

The following candidates are running in the general election for U.S. House California District 40 on November 3, 2026.

Candidate
Image of Ken Calvert
Ken Calvert (R)
Image of Young Kim
Young Kim (R)
Image of Claude Keissieh
Claude Keissieh (D)
Image of Joe Kerr
Joe Kerr (D)
Image of Eric Peterson
Eric Peterson (D)
Image of Lisa Ramirez
Lisa Ramirez (D)
Image of Paula Swift
Paula Swift (D)  Candidate Connection
Image of Tiffanie Tate
Tiffanie Tate (D)  Candidate Connection
Image of Esther Kim Varet
Esther Kim Varet (D)
Maricar Payad (American Independent Party)
Christian Ahmed (No party preference)
Image of Nina Linh
Nina Linh (Independent)

Candidate Connection = 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.

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Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Endorsements

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

U.S. House California District 41

See also: California's 41st 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 41

The following candidates are running in the general election for U.S. House California District 41 on November 3, 2026.


Candidate Connection = 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

Endorsements

To view Tate's endorsements as published by their campaign, click here. To send us an endorsement, click here.

Campaign themes

2026

U.S. House California District 40

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Candidate Connection

Tiffanie Tate completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Tate's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Expand all | Collapse all

Dr. Tiffanie Tate is a veteran officer of the US Navy, board certified obstetrician and gynecologist, author, minister, podcaster, mom and community servant. Being raised by a single parent she understands what it means to struggle.
  • Affordability. The cost of everyday needs are too high and something must be done to stabilize prices. It is time to put an end to the import taxes, known as tariffs, and put money back in the hands of families.
  • Immigration. It is time to stop ICE from removing valuable members of our community who contribute to our society.
  • Healthcare. Secure access to affordable healthcare and support healthcare subsidies.
Healthcare is a right, and not an option. No person should have to choose between paying a bill or seeking medical care. As a physician I am passionate about access to affordable healthcare.
I look up to Maxine Waters and Hellen Keller. Maxine Waters has a long-standing dedication to public service and advocacy for marginalized communities. She was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1990, and has championed civil rights, economic opportunity, affordable housing, and social justice, often speaking out against corruption and holding powerful institutions accountable. Her courage, persistence, and commitment to standing up for her principles demonstrate the importance of activism and civic engagement. Waters shows that one person can make a meaningful impact by fighting for equity and representing the needs of their community.

Helen Keller because she overcame being deaf and blind from a young age to achieve extraordinary accomplishments. With the help of her teacher, Anne Sullivan, she learned to communicate, went on to graduate from Radcliffe College, and became the first deaf-blind person to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree. Keller dedicated her life to advocacy, fighting for the rights of people with disabilities, promoting education, and supporting social justice causes. Her determination, resilience, and commitment to helping others make her an enduring symbol of courage and inspiration.

Two phenomenal people who have set excellent life examples that I would be honored to follow.
This is not a complete list, but in my humble opinion a politician needs the following: honesty and integrity to maintain public trust. Accountability to be responsible for their actions. Leadership skills to be able to make decision, take charge, and delegate when needed. Last, but not least, they need empathy to be able to have compassion for their constituents and meet their needs.
Legislative Duties-draft and sponsor bills that are important to my constituents. Vote on bills on the house floor and oversee the executive branch.

Constituent Services-help constituents with issues they have with federal agencies. Support constituents in the district by arranging tours, if desired, to the US Capitol and White House. Appoint students from district to US Military Service Academies. Respond to constituents.

Representation and Outreach-Engage with the community leaders, people in the district, and others to make sure their issues are being addressed. Update the community about the activities of Congress. Engage with the media.
The best legacy to leave is one that reflects the positive mark you make on the lives of others and the world around you. It is not measured by wealth or fame, but by the kindness, wisdom, and integrity you pass on. A meaningful legacy touches people’s hearts through love and support, inspires growth through shared knowledge and guidance, and contributes lasting value through actions that improve the lives of others or society as a whole. Ultimately, the best legacy is a combination of who you are, what you create, and how you make others feel—a reflection of a life lived with purpose, compassion, and authenticity.
The first major historical event that I recall occurred when I was 17 years old. I lived in Los Angeles county and my home was in turmoil. On March 3, 1991, Rodney King, an African American motorist, was brutally beaten by four Los Angeles Police Officers after a high-speed chase. The event was captured on video by a bystander and aired on the news. The footage, showing officers striking and kicking King while he was on the ground, sparked widespread outrage over police brutality and racial injustice. Latasha Harlins, a fifteen year old African American youth, was shot in the back of the head and killed over a $1.79 bottle of orange juice by the store owner on March 16, 1991. The owner was convicted of voluntary manslaughter and given probation, despite the altercation being on camera. The judge blamed the victim for entering the store. The next week there was an animal cruelty case involving a dog in the Los Angeles County court, and it ended with a 30-day jail sentence. After a jury acquitted the officers involved on April 29, 1992, protests in Los Angeles escalated into the 1992 riots, which resulted in widespread looting, property destruction, and dozens of deaths. The 1992 Los Angeles riots were a significant moment in U.S. history, highlighting deep racial, economic, and social tensions. The video beating Rodney King and the riots exposed longstanding issues of police brutality and systemic discrimination, particularly against African American and Latino communities. The unrest caused widespread property damage, economic loss, and displacement, drawing attention to poverty and urban inequality. In response, the events prompted calls for police reform, increased accountability, and community programs to address social disparities. The riots also sparked a national conversation about race relations, justice, and inequality that continues to influence public policy and civil rights discussions today.
When I was twelve I started babysitting. I have been a mom for twenty five years. So I would say that is the job I have had the longest, because you never stop being there for your children.

My first real job with benefits was when I turned 16 and worked as a courtesy clerk at Lucky’s Supermarket. position. The role helped me learn customer service relations, communication, and teamwork skills while providing hands-on experience with store operations. It offered flexible hours, which was ideal for me as a student who needed to balance homework and other commitments. Additionally, I had the privilege to interact regularly with customers and coworkers, improving interpersonal skills and providing networking opportunities. I was also a member of the United Food Commercial Workers (UFCW) Union.

I held the position for roughly two years during high school. I resigned when I left for college.
As an author I have many favorite books, but the one that stands out the most is THE SHACK by William Paul Young. This book portrays the trinity: God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit in a relatable way. It is an emotional and spiritual story that can help the reader have empathy for the father after the loss of his child. I appreciate the focus on love, forgiveness and recovery from suffering. This book deals with the relationship struggles that people often have to endure after a loss, and the doubts they have about God in crisis. I love it because it takes you on the journey through the pain into the triumph. It also reminds you that despite your doubts, God is still there. My first book, FloweTry: 108 Poetric Flows on Life, Love and Liturgical Issues, is meant to elevate, entertain, and enlighten. As a christian and ordained minister, it is important for me to nurture spirituality.
I would be Hermione Granger from Harry Potter. She is intelligent, brave, and empathetic. She demonstrates that heroism is not about strength, but about choosing what is right, even when it might be difficult. She repeatedly uses her knowledge and critical thinking to solve problems that others can't, showing tat being smart is her superpower. (Like being a doctor) She is loyal, dependable, and a leader. She is an inspiration because she demonstrates you just need to be willing to make a difference as long as you have the determination, compassion, and the courage.
Being born an only child, and not being raised by my biological parents due to their struggles with addiction and alcoholism were a struggle for me growing up. I was blessed to have my Momtee, maternal aunt, who raised me. She was a single parent with two children of her own. I still yearned to have the normal parental relationships that other children had. My biological mother was always around, and I watched her struggle with addiction. I also watched her struggle through years of recovery from her addiction until she was finally successful when I was an adult. In 2013 my mother was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer. As an OB-GYN doctor I have helped to heal many people, but I was not going to be able to heal my mom. I was able to be by her side and support her, and love her. As her only child, I had to take care of the woman who did not take care of me. I understood grace, mercy, and forgiveness. Our relationship blossomed and we grew closer prior to her passing away. My biological father was homeless, and I never met him while he was alive. I was notified by the state that he passed away in the prison system two years after my mother. I claimed his body and held a funeral for him. My mother’s dying wish was that we meet. Despite him being my father, some may wonder, "who holds a funeral for a stranger?" It was my way to honor my mother's request.
Unlike the Senate, the House districts are population based and tend to be smaller, and not based on the entire state. The Representatives serve a two year term, whereas in the Senate, they serve a six year term.
No. Newcomers can bring fresh new ideas. The US House of Representatives was designed to be "the people house." It is not for the elite or career politician. Any person desiring to serve their country and community can be elected.
There are so many issues at the present time, but the greatest is the defunding of Social Security.
No. I believe a four year term would be better. After a person gets oriented and ready to implement legislation, they need to run for office again.
I support term limits. It reduces career politicians and decreases special interest influence. With frequent turnover it increases innovation with energetic new people.
Shirley Chisholm. She served seven terms in the US House of Representatives from New York's 12th District. Chisholm broke barriers, stood up for justice, and stayed true to her principles. As the first Black woman elected to Congress and the first to run for president in a major political party, she showed incredible courage by entering spaces where she had never been represented. Known for her motto “Unbought and Unbossed,” Chisolm fought for civil rights, women’s equality, better education, and support for those in need. Even when she faced discrimination and resistance, she remained determined and outspoken. Her leadership and integrity continue to inspire people to challenge unfair systems and work for a more equal society.
Shirley Chisholm is a strong congressional role model because she demonstrated what true public service should look like—independent, principled, and focused on the people rather than political pressure. In Congress, she refused to be “Unbought and Unbossed,” meaning she would not let party leaders or powerful interests influence her decisions. She consistently rose to the occasion to advocate for social programs that helped underserved communities. Chisholm also proved that courage and integrity can create real change, even when facing discrimination and resistance. Her dedication to equality, honesty, and representing those without a voice makes her an inspiring example for anyone serving in Congress today. It would be an honor to champion the causes she stood for.
One of the most impactful stories is of a family that has been impacted by the federal government’s furloughs right before the holiday. This is a single parent mom with two children. She is the sole provider who is already struggling in an economy that is not affordable. Suddenly she was given a one month notice that she will have “no work and no pay” the next month. Just in time for the holidays. This is the type of administration that we have now. One without empathy or concern for their fellow human being.
Yes. Compromise is both necessary and desirable in order to pass legislation. The reality is that we are a multiparty system. The mechanism to pass legislation is compromise to appease both sides of the aisle. The public is also represented by both sides and need to also be willing to accept the legislation.
The Constitution’s requirement that all revenue-raising bills originate in the House should guide congressional priorities by ensuring that decisions about taxation and government funding begin in the chamber closest to the people. Because House members face frequent elections and represent smaller districts, they are uniquely accountable for choices about how the nation raises money, making it appropriate for them to set the initial fiscal agenda. This authority should empower the House to lead on major budget decisions, establish the financial parameters for new programs, and shape national priorities through transparent and accountable deliberation. At the same time, the Senate’s ability to amend revenue bills provides an important check, but should not overshadow the House’s primary role in determining the nation’s revenue strategy.
The House of Representatives should use its investigative powers to promote accountability, inform legislation, and safeguard the public interest—while exercising restraint, fairness, and constitutional respect. Because these powers are implied from the House’s legislative role, they are strongest when used to gather information necessary to craft laws, oversee federal programs, and expose wrongdoing that affects governance. Investigations should be grounded in a clear legislative purpose, conducted with transparency, and focused on obtaining accurate facts rather than producing political theater. The House should use subpoenas and hearings to ensure executive agencies follow the law, to protect taxpayer dollars, and to uncover abuses of power, but it should also respect individual rights, avoid partisan weaponization, and maintain credibility by following consistent standards. Properly exercised, the House’s investigative authority strengthens checks and balances and enhances public trust in the democratic process.
The Politicians Creed

EMPOWER CA NOW PAC
IBEW Local 440
Run Sister Run
Michael D. Moore, MPA, EFO, Retired Riverside City Fire Chief
Dr. Cornelia Graves, FACOG. Medical Director. Director of Perinatal Services
Dr. Sacha Lewis, FACOG.
Pam Washington RN
Tammera Martin Medical Assistant
Dr. Tamera Frazier, Educator
Dr. Jacqueline Eubany

Cydney Jones-Ratliff, Small Business Owner
Due to the horrific immigration policies of this administration, our immigrant citizens are fearful, both documented and undocumented. I head from a voter who was concerned for the safety of their law abiding family. The young adult children are citizens, the father is a citizen, and the mother is married, so in theory she "should" be but is not. She can no longer live in fear on a daily basis and would rather leave the country. We are losing valuable citizens who contribute to the fabric of our society.
Being from an inner city and overcoming the obstacles that I needed to become a board certified obstetrician and gynecologist. It is challenging to become a doctor. To enter a surgical specialty is even more challenging. I like the fact that I achieved my dream and I try to help others do the same by serving as a mentor and lecturer.
The government should help guide and safeguard the development of AI by setting clear safety standards, protecting citizens’ rights, and ensuring that powerful technologies are used responsibly. It should regulate high-risk applications, support research, and invest in education and infrastructure that foster innovation while preventing misuse. At the same time, the government must model ethical AI use in its own operations and work with international partners to establish shared norms. By balancing oversight with support for innovation, the government can help ensure that AI advances in ways that are safe, fair, and beneficial to society.
Legislation aimed at improving voting access in the United States can address registration, early and absentee voting, accessibility for disabled and marginalized voters, and protection against discriminatory practices. Existing laws such as the Voting Rights Act of 1965 prohibit racial discrimination in voting and ensure minority representation, while the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 (NVRA) requires states to offer voter registration opportunities at motor vehicle agencies, public offices, and through mail and online systems. The Help America Vote Act of 2002 (HAVA) modernized voting systems, established provisional ballots, and set accessibility standards for polling places. New legislation could expand early voting periods, allow no-excuse absentee voting nationwide, standardize online and automatic voter registration, and improve accessibility for voters with disabilities or language barriers. Laws could also fund outreach and education programs, protect against voter intimidation and disinformation, and ensure that all eligible citizens have equal, convenient, and secure opportunities to participate in elections.
Cell phone voting, or mobile voting, is an emerging idea that could increase accessibility and convenience for voters, particularly those who are overseas, disabled, or otherwise unable to reach polling places. Legislation enabling cell phone voting would need to prioritize security, privacy, and verifiability to prevent hacking, fraud, or manipulation of election results. It could include requirements for encrypted transmission, multi-factor authentication, auditable paper or digital records, and independent testing of mobile voting systems. While mobile voting has the potential to expand participation, lawmakers must balance accessibility with the integrity of elections, ensuring that all voters can cast their ballots safely and that results remain trustworthy and transparent.

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.

U.S. House California District 41

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Tiffanie Tate did not complete Ballotpedia's 2026 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.


Tiffanie Tate campaign contribution history
YearOfficeStatusContributionsExpenditures
2026* U.S. House California District 40Candidacy Declared general$55,893 $12,845
2026* U.S. House California District 41Withdrew general$55,893 $12,845
Grand total$111,785 $25,690
Sources: OpenSecretsFederal 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


External links

Footnotes

  1. 1.0 1.1 Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on December 12, 2025


Senators
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Ami Bera (D)
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Adam Gray (D)
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Ro Khanna (D)
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Jim Costa (D)
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Raul Ruiz (D)
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Judy Chu (D)
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Luz Rivas (D)
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Ted Lieu (D)
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Young Kim (R)
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Dave Min (D)
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Democratic Party (45)
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