First-generation Butte County farmer Jamie Johansson runs for 3rd Assembly District seat

Johansson emphasizes economic reform, public safety and rural development in his campaign platform

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Jamie Johansson, a first-generation farmer and community leader in Butte County, California, has announced his candidacy for the 3rd Assembly District. Johansson, who has farmed in the region since the 1990s, is running on a platform focused on economic reform, public safety, and supporting rural communities. He has served in various leadership roles, including as Vice Mayor of Oroville and with the California Farm Bureau, giving him experience navigating the regulatory landscape and economic challenges facing farmers.

Why it matters

Johansson's candidacy represents the voice of the agricultural community in the 3rd Assembly District, which covers a large rural area in northern California. As a first-generation farmer, he brings a unique perspective to addressing issues like the cost of living, public safety, and wildfire mitigation that impact both urban and rural constituents in the region.

The details

Johansson emphasizes the need for effective communication and alliance-building to ensure the district's concerns are heard in Sacramento. He cites the challenges farmers face in navigating a complex regulatory environment, with 19-20 permits often required, as a key driver for his entry into public service. Johansson also plans to focus on addressing the rising costs of essentials like energy, water, and food, which he says have placed a significant financial burden on California families.

  • Johansson has farmed in Butte County since the 1990s.
  • Johansson served as Vice Mayor of Oroville and held leadership roles with the California Farm Bureau over the past two decades.

The players

Jamie Johansson

A first-generation farmer and community leader in Butte County, California, who is running for the 3rd Assembly District seat.

Butte County Farm Bureau

An organization Johansson has been involved with, providing him experience navigating the regulatory landscape and economic challenges facing farmers.

California Farm Bureau

An organization Johansson has held leadership roles within, including serving as Vice President and President.

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What they’re saying

“Farmers often have to navigate 19 to 20 permits, which significantly limits time in the field. That frustration propelled me into public service, where I've worked to advocate for local issues and policies that support rural California.”

— Jamie Johansson, Candidate for 3rd Assembly District (KRCR)

“Traveling around the state, working on local issues for the last 20 years has shown me the importance of an assembly member who has that experience. As our assembly member terms out, it's replacing 20 years of local and state experience. Your voice has to be strong, you have to know how to build those alliances and represent your constituents. Communication with the grassroots, with your constituents, is vital because it's their issues we're bringing to the capitol.”

— Jamie Johansson, Candidate for 3rd Assembly District (KRCR)

What’s next

Johansson has hosted meet and greets throughout the district and says he prioritizes constituent communication as he continues his campaign for the 3rd Assembly District seat.

The takeaway

Johansson's candidacy represents the voice of the agricultural community in the 3rd Assembly District, and his experience as a first-generation farmer and community leader positions him to advocate for issues like economic reform, public safety, and supporting rural development in the region.