Vince Fong, a native son of Bakersfield, whose journey from the classrooms and debate halls of West High to the corridors of Congress exemplifies dedication, service, and the enduring impact of a strong educational foundation.
Born in 1979 at Memorial Hospital in Bakersfield, Fong grew up in the heart of Kern County and has remained deeply rooted in the community. He and his family continue to call Bakersfield home, where he now raises his young son alongside his wife, Amanda.
Fong’s connection to West High School runs strong and personal. He walked the halls as a student from 1993 to 1997, immersing himself in academics and extracurriculars that would shape his future. A standout member of the West High Forensics Team, he advanced to the state tournament in policy debate during his senior year – a testament to his sharp intellect and persuasive abilities. Beyond debate, he contributed to the school community as a member of the Key Club, National Honor Society and the West High Orchestra, balancing rigorous academics with active involvement.
His sister, Stephanie Fong, preceded him as a West High graduate in the class of 1996, making their shared Viking experience a family affair. Fong has often spoken with gratitude about his parents’ unwavering support during those years. They volunteered tirelessly with the forensics team, chaperoning out-of-town tournaments and serving as judges at local competitions, instilling in him the values of commitment and community.
Fong credits several influential mentors from West High for laying the groundwork of his career in public service. Debate coach Don Vettel challenged him to think critically and rigorously, while civics and economics teacher Bill Parviainen instilled a profound appreciation for the responsibilities of citizenship and governance. Their guidance proved foundational, carrying him forward through higher education and beyond.
After graduating from West High, Fong pursued his studies at UCLA, earning a bachelor’s degree in political science. He later obtained a master’s degree in public affairs from Princeton University’s School of Public and International Affairs. His professional path soon turned to public service, beginning with staff roles for Congressman Bill Thomas and later Congressman Kevin McCarthy.
From 2016 to 2024, Fong represented his community in the California State Assembly, where he rose to prominence as Vice Chair of the Assembly Budget and Transportation Committees. He also served on key committees including Health; Privacy and Consumer Protection; Business and Professions; Labor and Pensions; Insurance; Utilities and Energy; and the Select Committee on Ports and Goods Movement.
In 2024, voters entrusted him with a new chapter of leadership, electing him to the U.S. House of Representatives to serve California’s 20th Congressional District. Today, he sits on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee, and the House Homeland Security Committee, continuing to advocate for the issues that matter most to Kern County and beyond.
