Humboldt County educator announces 2026 bid for Rep. Huffmans congressional seat - Local News Matters

Colby Smart, a Humboldt County educator and deputy superintendent, announced his candidacy for California's 2nd Congressional District in 2026 as an independent, challenging incumbent Rep. Jared Huffman. Smart stated, “District 2 deserves representation that puts people before politics,” highlighting the need for community-focused leadership. His campaign follows the approval of Proposition 50, which redraws congressional maps, potentially favoring Democrats by removing left-leaning areas and incorporating more Republican strongholds. The 2nd District currently includes Marin, Mendocino, Trinity, Humboldt, Del Norte counties, and parts of Sonoma County, but the new map will alter its composition.

Smart, who moved to Humboldt County nearly 30 years ago, prioritizes rural economic development, public education, and government transparency. “No community should ever feel ignored or taken for granted,” he added. His background in education and local leadership positions him as a candidate concerned about the region's needs. The upcoming election will test the impact of these redistricting changes on voter representation.