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Raul Ruiz and His Wife Are Expecting Twins

Ruiz at a 2012 debate. (Bill Clark/CQ Roll Call)
Ruiz at a 2012 debate. (Bill Clark/CQ Roll Call)

Rep. Raul Ruiz, D-Calif., had two reasons to celebrate on Election Night. Well, technically three.  

As he awaited the election results late Tuesday night, Ruiz announced at his victory party at the Agua Caliente Casino that he and his wife Monica Rivers are expecting twins.  

“As most of you know, Monica and I were married earlier this year. And I’m so proud that she is my life partner. Tonight is a celebration. And so here, with all of you … I wanted to share some other celebratory news,” said Ruiz, prompting “ooo’s” and cheers from the crowd waving “Dr. Raul Ruiz” signs.  

“Monica and I are expecting our first child in April,” said Ruiz, and the crowd erupted in cheers. “Actually let me correct that, We’re expecting our first two children. Twins!” said Ruiz as he held up two fingers.  

The California Democrat officially won his race against Republican Brian Nestande, who served as chief of staff for ex-Rep. Mary Bono Mack, R-Calif., when The Associated Press called the race late Wednesday morning. Ruiz took 53 percent of the vote in the race for California’s 36th District.  

Before coming to Congress in 2012, Ruiz worked as an emergency room doctor. The Desert Sun reported that he and Rivers, an emergency-medicine nurse, married in March, after they dated for several years.  

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