Press Release
Posted:
Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04) announced that Marine Corps veteran, small business owner, and City Councilmember Bernie Narvaez from Napa will be his guest to the President’s State of the Union address to Congress on February 24th, 2026.
“Bernie is a shining example of what it means to be a public servant and to fulfill the American Dream,” said Thompson. “I am honored Bernie is joining me in Washington, D.C. as a representative for the hardworking people of our district. As a veteran, as a small business owner, as an immigrant, as a local elected official, and as a husband and father, Bernie knows all too well the importance of standing up for our country, defending our democracy, and lowering costs for hardworking people.
“It was a privilege to have Bernie join me to speak to over one thousand community members at my Stop ICE Day of Action last month and I know he will be a powerful voice in Washington as we fight back against this out-of-control administration and fight for a more affordable future,” Thompson continued.
“As an immigrant, Marine veteran, small business owner, and father, I see firsthand the hardships families and small businesses are facing today. Attending the State of the Union as Congressman Mike Thompson’s guest gives me the opportunity to help bring those real-life challenges to light and represent the voices of our Napa community on a national stage,” said Bernie Narvaez.
BACKGROUND
Families across our country are being squeezed by rising prices caused by the President’s trade war. In California’s 4th Congressional District, families are paying an extra $1,900 per year due to tariffs and the Big Ugly Law.
Thompson recently led Ways and Means Democrats in designing a comprehensive bill to put money back in Americans’ pockets and strengthen our economy. The American Affordability Act is designed to lower everyday costs and expand economic opportunity through targeted tax relief and strategic investments to make housing, healthcare, childcare, energy, and education more affordable for Americans.
As a combat veteran, Rep. Thompson is also fighting back against this President’s abuses of power, including opposing his unauthorized uses of military action abroad and standing up against ICE’s actions in Minneapolis and across our country. Thompson was joined by Mr. Narvaez in Napa in January for a Stop ICE Day of Action attended by over 1,000 community members.
ABOUT BERNIE
Bernardo “Bernie” Narvaez is an Iraq War Veteran, small business owner, and City Councilmember from Napa, California. Born in Sinaloa, Mexico, Bernie immigrated to the United States with his family in 1990 and grew up in poverty, learning the value of hard work and family entrepreneurship. After the September 11 attacks, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and served honorably for six years.
In 2007, Bernie and his father founded Narvaez Insurance Services, which has served more than 4,000 families and small businesses. With more than 20 years as a business owner and employer, he understands firsthand the challenges facing working families and entrepreneurs, including rising health care, housing, and utility costs.
Bernie currently serves as City Councilmember for Napa’s District 4 and Vice-Chair of the Napa County Climate Action Committee. He and his wife, Gaby, are raising their three children in Napa, despite high living and housing costs, reflecting their deep commitment to the community.