Brett Dood is the first to challenge incumbent Josh Harder for the 9th District Congressional seat in the 2024 election.

The Ripon resident and lead pastor of the Calvary Reformed Church announced his candidacy on Monday.

“I am running for Congress, because like most Californians, I’m frustrated with the antics in Washington. California families are struggling, something has to be done,” Dood said in a release. “We elect the same career politicians but expect different results. We don’t need another politician; we need a proven public servant. 

Dood (pronounced like "road") is seeking to represent the district that includes all of San Joaquin County expect for Lathrop as well as rural areas east of Tracy and south of Manteca. The 9th also includes a portion of eastern Contra Costa County that includes Discovery Bay and Byron.

The district is a top Democrat-to-Republican flip opportunity. The district, which Newsom lost in 2022, was placed on the National; Republican Congressional Committee’s target list for 2024.

“I believe the country can change if we elect principled leaders who will speak the truth, support real reforms like term limits, and put people over political parties,” Dood said. “As a pastor, I am always listening and helping others. As your next Congressman, I will listen, fight for California families, and defend the values that matter most to our communities.

In the weeks following 9-11, Dood enlisted in the Marine Corps, but his hopes were dashed when he was disqualified due to a high school football injury.

Ordained as a pastor in 2013, Dood has worked to bring positive change to every community and congregation he has served..

Dood resides in Ripon with his wife Sarah.

They have four children: Jacob (14), Joshua (12), Jettson (10), Jovianna (5).