Supervisor Josh Pedrozo Champions Rural California on the International Stage

Merced County Supervisor Josh Pedrozo recently brought California’s rural voice to the global stage, representing counties across the state and nation at the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) Annual Conference in Ottawa. As Chair of the National Association of Counties (NACo) Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee, Supervisor Pedrozo served as a key panelist, advocating for rural communities facing urgent challenges in infrastructure, healthcare, broadband access, and economic opportunity.

Supervisor Pedrozo’s presence on the international panel underscored his growing leadership role—both within California and nationally—as a forceful advocate for rural priorities. He drew direct connections between the daily realities of Merced County residents and those living in rural towns across Canada. From limited access to mental health services to technology gaps in farming and education, Supervisor Pedrozo made it clear that rural challenges transcend borders—and so should the solutions.

In his remarks, he highlighted how top-down mandates often miss the mark and called for greater trust in local governments to lead.

“The biggest takeaway I got was government just needs to get out of our way and let locals do what locals do. We know what’s going on.”

Supervisor Pedrozo also used the opportunity to elevate the importance of strategic partnerships, referencing recent local successes in coordinating with neighboring jurisdictions to meet state staffing requirements and expand emergency response capacity. His leadership helped turn funding shortfalls into collaborative solutions, demonstrating the value of locally driven innovation.

Supervisor Pedrozo continues to lead national conversations on broadband expansion, pharmacy access, the Farm Bill, and ag technology security. He is working to shape policy that reflects the realities of rural life—policies that ensure rural residents are not asked to “make do” with less.

“We’re in the people business. And when we lose focus on that, that’s when we have to get out.”

Through his work at NACo and his advocacy on the ground in California, Supervisor Pedrozo is helping to reshape the narrative around rural counties—not as isolated or outdated, but as essential partners in building resilient, inclusive communities across North America.