Congressional Candidate Juan M. Hidalgo: “No Such Thing as an Ex-Marine”

By Emma Jimenez

Sergeant Major Juan M. Hidalgo Jr. is a retired Marine running for election to the U.S. House to represent California’s 51st Congressional District. He is on the ballot in the general election on November 3, 2020.

Hidalgo was born and raised in the San Diego, CA area community. He currently resides there with his wife and their three children. He is active in San Diego, Imperial and other California communities. Just one month after retiring from the Marine Corps, Sergeant Major Hidalgo decided to continue serving his country by running for United States Congress.

Hidalgo’s core platforms are jobs, education and public safety. He cites the fact that before the COVID-19 pandemic, the 51st district had an 11% unemployment rate when the national average was at 3.2%. He stated that this is unacceptable and the result of too many people in congress who are not “job creators” but instead are “job exporters.” Hidalgo shared with Politifix news that he knows the people of the 51st district- “they want jobs not handouts.”

Hidalgo furthered expressed his frustration with the education system, citing the graduation rate for the 51st is only 68% compared to a national average of 84%. He believes the students are being “pushed through” more than being educated and he seeks to change that by retaining the best educators that are truly devoted to the education of today’s youth.

On the topic of public safety, Hidalgo was critical of the failure of leaders to stop the sewage spill at Imperial Beach which has been going on for years. The sewage is coming from Mexico across the border causing residents to endure a foul smell, beach closure, and polluting San Diego waters.

Hidalgo describes himself as a “non-politician,” but a proven leader. To Hidalgo there’s “no such thing as an ex-marine,” The expression, “once a marine, always a marine,” is something he takes to heart. He’s committed to fighting, and winning for conservative values and for the people of his district.

“You don’t just instantly forget everything you’ve learned and experienced over the past few years once you’re a civilian,” My district currently lacks a leader and I’m ready to take on that role,” stated Hidalgo.

To Hidalgo, a marine is more than just bearing the title, it is a representation of all that he endured and sacrificed for. Although retired, Hidalgo still possesses all the traits that define a marine today; courage, honor, and commitment. All marines are expected to fight, and all are expected to lead. The values of courage, honor and integrity that were instilled in him in the military will surely lead his district to victory.

Hidalgo is still committed to live up to the highest standards upheld while in uniform. He has served valiantly, honorably, and without fear. He has served and fought for this great country of ours on foreign soil and is now ready to continue fighting for this country in Washington DC.

For more information on Juan M. Hidalgo Jr. and to support his campaign, please visit www.hidalgoforcongress.com

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