From Fields to the Frontlines
Lorenzo Rios is a testament to the American Dream. Born in Mexico, he came to the United States as a young boy with his parents, who worked as migrant farm laborers. By age 12, Lorenzo was working alongside them in the fields, thinning apples, peaches, and pears, doing whatever it took to help his family get ahead.
At 18, Lorenzo enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, a decision that would transform his life. Surrounded by Marines who believed in him, he was driven to discover a potential he had never seen in himself. The potential to lead, to serve with purpose, and to accomplish far more than he had ever imagined.
A Distinguished Military Career
After his time in the Marine Corps, Lorenzo earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Gonzaga University, and later a master’s and currently Ph.D. (ABD) from Arizona State University. Through Gonzaga’s ROTC program, he was commissioned as an Army officer. Lorenzo went on to serve 23 years of combined service in the U.S. Marine Corps and Army, with assignments in the Logistics and Armor branches. His career included multiple deployments to the Balkans, Iraq, and Afghanistan. He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel, earning two Bronze Stars.
One of the most rewarding chapters of his military career was teaching at West Point, where he taught International Relations and Latin American Politics, mentored cadets, and helped shape the next generation of American leaders.
Leadership in
Action
Following his military service, Lorenzo dedicated himself to leadership and public service in the Central Valley. He has been a Department Chair at Fresno State University, board member for statewide organizations focused on strengthening local government, president and member of Rotary, member of the Kiwanis club, and Scout Master with the Boy Scouts of America.
He currently serves as CEO of the Clovis Veterans Memorial District and former Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army, advocating for veterans, active-duty service members, and their families throughout the region.
A Vision in the Valley
Now, Lorenzo is running for Congress to ensure every American can achieve their own American Dream. Just as the Marine Corps once saw potential in him, Lorenzo sees the potential of the Central Valley to thrive with a strong economy, safe neighborhoods, and vibrant communities.
A proven servant-leader, Lorenzo believes in putting people first and delivering real results. He’s running to be a catalyst for a new Golden Age in the Valley, where opportunity is abundant and the American Dream stays alive for generations to come.