Below you will find every single race that can be found in Buena Park, based on the cities covered by the respective agencies. Not all candidates may be on your ballot, but every candidate on your ballot will be here.

If you don’t see a race or a candidate on here that you expected to, it may be the seat is unopposed and not on the ballot.

Click the “+” next to each name to learn more about the candidates.

Buena Park

2024 Voter Guide

City Council Race

  • Candidate for Anaheim Union High School District 

    Area 3

    Anaheim, Buena Park, Cypress, La Palma, Stanton

    Campaign Website: None Found

    Social Media: 

    Magcalas has a public Instagram page, but his last post was in 2016: 

    Magcalas also has a private Instagram page: 

    Magcalas’s Facebook – last post in 2014: 


    News:

    • In 2019, “Jose Paolo Magcalas, an ethnic studies and United States history teacher at Loara High School, was elected to lead the [Anaheim] school district’s board.

    • A blog post from a far-right, anti-LGBTQ+ source critical of Magcalas, effectively calling him a Marxist and “woke activist”:

    Endorsements:

    • The liberal-leaning Orange Juice Blog endorses him and speaks of him this way:

    “Trustee Area 3: Jose Paolo Magcalas (professor, current Elementary School Board member) finally taking on: Katherine Smith (incumbent trustee; ah, the stories I could tell about this ancient Anaheim matron. Some good, some bad. But she has been on the board long enough.)

    • ”The anti-LGBTQ, far-right Nancy’s Picks endorsed his opponent, Katherine Smith

    • Magcalas is not only endorsed by the Orange County Democrats, there’s also a link to his fundraising page on the OC Democrats’ page

  • Candidate for Anaheim Union High School District 

    Area 3

    Anaheim, Buena Park, Cypress, La Palma, Stanton


    Smith doesn’t appear to have a campaign website. 


    Socials: 

    Instagram

    Facebook

    These both are private and/or relatively empty.


    Smith has served on the board of trustees of the AUHSD since 1996. 



    The OC Register asked Smith a few questions.  Among those, they asked: “California has a new law, set to go into effect in 2025, that prohibits districts from enforcing what’s been called parental notification policies, rules for school employees to contact parents if their child may be changing their gender identity. What do you see as the role of parents in education? Is there a limitation?”

    Smith answered: “Well, I think that that law is well thought out. We have different issues with our youth today. It’s a different world than when I grew up, and the issues that are very important for our youth today should be handled in an ethical manner.”


    Her opponent, Jose, Paolo Magcalas, didn’t answer the OC Register’s questionnaire.


    Endorsements: 

    “Recommendation: Area 3: KATHERINE H. SMITH (“Declined to State” party)

    Comments: Previously long time Republican (recently DTS) and incumbent board member that has done a good job, like conceiving  and founding highly acclaimed Oxford Academy.”


    ***We would note that Nancy’s Picks does seem to have a habit of choosing the candidate that is furthest from a Democrat as possible, even when no other information is available. 


  • Candidate for Anaheim Union High School District 

    Area 4

    Anaheim, Buena Park, Cypress, La Palma, Stanton

    Henry does not seem to have a campaign website. 

    Socials: 

    None found

    Henry did not respond to the OC Register 2024 General Election Candidate Questionnaire. You can find links to the responses from participating candidates in their candidate research sections.

    • The liberal-leaning Orange Juice Blog comments on Charoen here, saying: “Trustee Area 4: Henry Charoen (Centralia school board member – another trying to move on up to AUHSD. Gustavo tells us he used to be a La Palma Mayor so WEIGH THAT HEAVILY!)”

    Endorsements: 

    • The conservative-leaning Nancy’s Picks endorses his opponent,O’Neal: “Area 4: BRIAN O'NEAL (AI) Comments: Incumbent AI (American Independent-good platform) party, BRIAN O'NEAL is being challenged by HENRY CHAROEN, an unknown Republican, who did not even file a Ballot Statement.”

  • Candidate for Anaheim Union High School District 

    Area 4

    Anaheim, Buena Park, Cypress, La Palma, Stanton

    Brian is registered as an American Independent, which is a far-right political party. However, it’s fairly common for people who mean to register as “No Party Preference” to mistakenly register as “American Independent”, thinking it’s the same thing.  We can’t be sure if that’s the case for Brian or not. 

    O’Neal has been a trustee of the AUHSD since 2002. His bio includes, “His community volunteer activities include being a founding director and current president of the Scholarship Foundation of John F. Kennedy High School; participation as a Boy Scout adult leader for 33 years and still active; formerly serving on the Board of Youth 20/20; and acting as Neighborhood Watch Block captain for 35 years”. 

    Brian declined to fill out the OC Register 2024 General Election Candidate Questionnaire. You can find links to the responses from participating candidates in their candidate research sections.

    Socials: None Found

    Endorsements:

    Nancy’s Picks (far-right local ballot guide)

  • Candidate for Anaheim Union High School District 

    Area 5 (short term)

    Anaheim, Buena Park, Cypress, La Palma, Stanton


    Hoshi lists his campaign website as https://www.hoshi4auhsd.wixsite.com/, but we were unable to open it. 


    Hoshi has been a “choral music teacher, Activities Director, and Principal” according to his LinkedIn.

    Socials: 

    Instagram:

    Linktree: 

    Facebook: 


    On Instagram, Hoshi follows: 

    ***The large majority of accounts Hoshi follows are related to AUHSD.  With the exception of Jesse Watters, he doesn’t seem to follow any openly political accounts. 


    Endorsements:

    None Found


    The OC Register asked Hoshi a few questions.  Among those, they asked, “California has a new law, set to go into effect in 2025, that prohibits districts from enforcing what’s been called parental notification policies, rules for school employees to contact parents if their child may be changing their gender identity. What do you see as the role of parents in education? Is there a limitation? (Please limit your answer to 200 words or less.)”


    Ron replied, “Parents play a vital role as partners with the school district in supporting their children. Unfortunately, not all students feel comfortable confiding in their parents for various reasons. Schools can serve as a safe and supportive environment where students can build the confidence and readiness to involve their parents in important conversations. This group of students often faces higher rates of suicidal ideation and mental health challenges. It is essential for our schools to help bridge the gap for these students, providing support and guiding them toward connecting with their parents during this critical time in their lives.”



  • Candidate for Anaheim Union High School District 

    Area 5 (short term)

    Anaheim, Buena Park, Cypress, La Palma, Stanton


    Blount is currently Trustee of the North Orange County Community College District.


    Blount does not have any campaign website or social media that we were able to locate. 



    Endorsements: 



    The OC Register asked Steve a few questions.  Among those, they asked,  “California has a new law, set to go into effect in 2025, that prohibits districts from enforcing what’s been called parental notification policies, rules for school employees to contact parents if their child may be changing their gender identity. What do you see as the role of parents in education? Is there a limitation?“


    Blount gave this answer: “This involves two opposing inalienable rights: that parents should have complete control and involvement in the lives of the children and the right of children to be what they truly believe they are. In the same vein, if a parent is truly, completely and totally involved in their children’s lives and well-being, they will know already. The task is to make sure the students don’t fear the reaction of the parents and that students should believe that their parents love them completely and unconditionally.”


Anaheim Union School District

  • Candidate for Buena Park SD Area 3


    OC Register 2024 General Election Candidate Questionnaire
    Michael Jensen, Buena Park School District Trustee Area 3 candidate, 2024 election questionnaire
    Q: California has a new law, set to go into effect in 2025, that prohibits districts from enforcing what’s been called parental notification policies, rules for school employees to contact parents if their child may be changing their gender identity. What do you see as the role of parents in education? Is there a limitation?
    A: Parents need to be supportive of their children’s education. They need to reinforce what is being taught. They need to team with the teacher and school to make the most out of their child’s overall school experience. If they are working as a team, children will be comfortable talking with their parents.

    Michael Jensen does not have campaign finances filed, so we aren’t able to advise who is funding his campaign. 

    We weren’t able to find any endorsements on this race from any groups, including the OC GOP and the OC Dems.

    He doesn’t have a campaign website, either, or any social media we could find. 

    The man is a ghost, politically speaking.

  • Candidate for Buena Park School District Area 3

    Incumbent


    Ahmad has not reported any campaign finance filings for the year, making it difficult to advise who is supporting her campaign.  

    No notable endorsements

    Tharwa, who also works as a translator for the district, got her degree in diplomatic studies from a University in Jordan.

    https://www.bpsd.us/governing-board/governing-board-profiles

    The candidate declined to participate in the OC Register 2024 election questionnaire. You can find links to the responses from participating candidates in their candidate research sections.

Buena Park School District

Centralia School District

  • Candidate for Centralia USD Area 3

    Co-owns a small business with her spouse, per filing paperwork with the OC ROV

    Hernandez does not seem to have a campaign website or any campaign social media. 

    She does not have any campaign finance filings,

    She says the following in her candidate statement: 

    “As the world changes at exponential speeds, so must our schools. In the last two decades, my involvement with public education includes:

    • Elementary School PTA President, Secretary and Treasurer

    • Buena Park Counsel PTA President and VP of Programs

    • PTA Fourth District Historian

    • Junior High PTA President

    Through these experiences, I realized that academic excellence can only be achieved through visionary leadership, creativity, and innovation. Being involved in hundreds of PTA initiatives showed me that anything is possible if we create a strong coalition of stakeholders and work together.

    My priorities are:

    • Advocate for inclusive education for children with special needs

    • Ensure all students are responsible digital and global citizens

    • Make schools safe and welcoming 

    • Fight for a strong academic curriculum Increase parent involvement opportunities 

    Our students have a diverse range of needs, which frequently go unnoticed. As a female business owner, I have been in many situations where my voice is not as valued simply because of my gender. My passion for being a champion for those who need advocacy is arguably my biggest strength. My children have been the lucky beneficiaries of this wonderful school district, and I am committed to continuing the legacy of building national award winning programs.”


    OC Register 2024 General Election Candidate Questionnaire
    Angela Hernandez, Centralia School District Trustee Area 3 candidate, 2024 election questionnaire
    Q: California has a new law, set to go into effect in 2025, that prohibits districts from enforcing what’s been called parental notification policies, rules for school employees to contact parents if their child may be changing their gender identity. What do you see as the role of parents in education? Is there a limitation?
    A: Issues around privacy and confidentiality, such as FERPA (1974), have been a part of the public school system for decades. While they continue to evolve over time, these laws are decided at the state and federal level. As a school board member, what I believe is important on issues that may be divided, is the proper care and attention a community needs to have open dialogue. Parents and community members should feel safe, both physically and psychologically, when expressing their viewpoints. My hope is that as a school community, which includes superintendents, principals, teachers and students, we can cultivate a kind and respectful space for crucial conversations to be had.

  • Candidate for Centralia School District Area 3

    Thomas Barraza agreed to take the PatP School Board Advocacy Pledge, saying “I will take the Advocacy Pledge. I do believe in these topics and will consider them when making decisions for the students and the families of my district”. 


    Thomas Barraza has been endorsed by both the OC Dems and far-right Nancy’s Picks, which is a little confusing.

    Nancy’s Picks says: “Comments: This race pits Democrat registered, ANGELA HERNANDEZ, who has been involved in PTA, and mentions in her ballot statement about discrimination bc she is a female,  against Green Party Candidate, THOMAS BARRAZA. BARRAZA states he serves on several local education committees, but doesn’t mention which ones. He states his priorities include: “Family-Centered Support”. “With parents’ rights in mind, I will ensure that our schools support the whole family, promoting an inclusive approach to education”. Hmm, sounds good, so far! He continues, “Transparency and accountability are essential”.  He will “will advocate for clear communication. . . . from teachers, parents, and students to build a more effective educational system”. With this from BARRAZA, I am giving a “nod” toward BARRAZA, though not a strong one, since minimal information. I like “Parental Rights” School board candidates.”

    OC Register 2024 General Election Candidate Questionnaire
    Thomas Barraza, Centralia School District Trustee Area 3 candidate, 2024 election questionnaire
    Q: California has a new law, set to go into effect in 2025, that prohibits districts from enforcing what’s been called parental notification policies, rules for school employees to contact parents if their child may be changing their gender identity. What do you see as the role of parents in education? Is there a limitation?
    A: The role of parents is to be involved. To take part in their child’s education and preparation for becoming a valuable part of society. Parents can be seen and heard by consistently communicating with teachers and the district office. Open lines of communication are imperative to the trust parents need from teachers and what teachers need from parents. Let’s remember the goal is to create a cohesive learning atmosphere that prepares our students as they progress into and through the high school stages of their education.

    Thomas’ candidate statement says, “I’m a lifelong resident of our district, who attended San Marino, Orangeview, Western, and Cypress College. I currently serve on multiple education committees in our area, which is why I am running for Trustee. I’m driven by my values of family, education, and productive resolutions. I'm dedicated to ensuring our schools and district effectively support every student through collaborative, solutions-oriented approaches.

    My Priorities:

    Family-Centered Support: I believe in fostering an environment where family involvement is integral to student success. With parents’ rights in mind, I will ensure that our schools support the whole family, promoting an inclusive approach to education. Economic Responsibility: I am dedicated to ensuring our district’s financial decisions are sound and responsible. I will prioritize investments that enhance student learning and school operations, providing our children and schools with a secure and confident future.

    Accountability and Participation: Transparency and accountability are essential. I will advocate for clear communication and active participation from teachers, parents, and students to build a more effective educational system. Focusing on these priorities will improve our children's thriving, well-supported learning environment. With gratitude and commitment, I am honored to earn your vote to achieve these goals. Thomas Barraza for Area 3 Trustee.”

    Barraza founded the SoCal non-profit, ASK A Foundation. https://www.instagram.com/askafoundation/

    Barraza has not filed any campaign finance paperwork yet, but has purchased a significant amount of yard signs and shirts.  We aren’t able to advise who has donated to his campaign for the purchases of those campaign materials. https://www.instagram.com/p/DAZpLFKy0ei/?img_index=4

    His website is not live as of 10/01/24 but can be found here: https://www.votethomasbarraza.com/

Cypress School District

  • Candidate for Trustee Area A - Cypress USD 


    Nancy’s Picks (a conservative-leaning voter guide) recommends Hayashida: 

    “Comments: This is not a strong recommendation, but merely the better of the 2.” (The 2nd choice being Steve Shanahan, about whom Nancy’s Picks wrote: “NOTE: Please do not vote for opponent STEVE SHANAHAN, who is a known Democrat Liberal.”) 

    https://www.nancyspicks.com/vote-picks


    Endorsed by Reform California



    Facebook page:

    https://www.facebook.com/carrie.hayashidakatsumata


    Instagram:

    https://www.instagram.com/hapajaq/


    In 2022, posted an far-right Epoch Times screenshot on instagram her support for then-County supervisors Bartlett, Do, and Wagner, with the caption “Participation + Prayer = OCBE WIN! Remember who supported the kids: Bartlett, Do & Wagner.“   Do and Wagner also later both voted yes on a county level version of the same Pride Flag ban that HB passed in 2023. 

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CZeo0jZLVwC/?img_index=5


    She also posted a selfie with Michelle Bachman, one of the original leaders of the Tea Party. “In 2021, I was honored to meet Michele Bachmann, former Minnesota US Representative, 2012 Presidential Candidate & Tea Party Founder. #careers #teapartypatriots” https://www.instagram.com/p/Ciaqfcap1-G/



    Hayashida is bilingual English-Japanese

    Hayashida has an “MS Degree in Environmental Studies from CSUF” and an MBA from Hope International University

    Hayashida is a “BAM Practictioner” — “BAM” is in reference to a book “Business As Mission: The Essential Roadmap for Christian Entrepreneurs”

    Hayashida is a doTERRA Wellness Advocate.

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/carriehayashida


    Hayashida’s family were in Japanese Internment Camps in WWII.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/Ck1wrA4vKq-/


    “In 2022 and 2020 Hayashida unsuccessfully ran for the Cypress City Council. In the 2020 election, Hayashida finished just behind Anne Hertz (Mallari) and Frances Marquez, racking up more than 6,000 votes, barely missing a win of one of the two at-large seats.”

    “Hayashida has been appointed to the Cypress School District Board as a Trustee, to fill the seat vacated by Brian Nakamura after he resigned in March. “

    Hayashida unsuccessfully ran for Cypress City Council twice, and was then  appointed to the Cypress School Board in Jun 2024.

    https://www.spotlightschools.com/new-member-appointed-to-cypress-school-board/


    “At a special meeting on Sept. 16, the Cypress School District Board of Trustees voted 3 to 1 to appoint Meghna Parikh as the new interim representative of Trustee Area C.”

    ”Parikh will serve out the remainder of the term of former Trustee Sandra Lee, which ends in 2026. Lee resigned in August. Trustees Candi Kern, Lydia Sondhi, and Troy Tanaka voted in favor of Parikh's appointment, while Trustee Carrie Hayashida voted against it.”

    Hayashida was the lone dissenter in a 3-1 vote to appoint Parikh.

    https://www.spotlightschools.com/cypress-school-board-appoints-new-trustee-to-fill-vacancy/


    Candidate Statement when Hayashida ran for Cypress City Council in 2022:

    “As a 27-year Cypress resident, I look forward to serving the community that provided a good life for my family. This small town community has a big heart and offers something for every generation. I plan to work on behalf of the residents to maintain the quality of life that makes Cypress a top place to live.

    Responsible Growth & Management: The State mandated cities, including Cypress plan to build a specific number of homes in the next several years. Our community should build at a pace that is cautious, sustainable, and balanced across the entire city. Attending the first Cypress Citizen’s Academy taught me about City operations, infrastructure, and its financial health. As the Business Park looks to modernize and the pandemic economic recovery continues, I look forward to working with stakeholders to build new partnerships that is good for Cypress.

    Build a Sustainable Community: Networking and building relationships are key elements of a solid foundation needed when implementing programs. As we build, I’d like Cypress to consider building more areas for outdoor eating and boutique style small businesses to invite surrounding cities, as well as Cypress residents to shop and relax here. Hopefully, it will also create more opportunities for our high school and college students to work close to home.

    Preserve Cypress’ Quality of Life: Cypress is a great city that like most is dealing with challenges (e.g., state mandated housing & the Pandemic recovery). If elected, I look forward to working to move us forward. Some of my community activities include: Little League Asst. Coach, SEYO Basketball Team Parent, Luther Elementary Room Parent, KHS Shamrock Regiment VP Hospitality, and Walker Jr High Site Council Representative. It was a privilege to volunteer and the experience will serve me well as a Council Member.”

    https://localocnews.com/carrie-hayashida-releases-candidate-statement-for-her-run-for-cypress-city-council/


  • Candidate for Trustee Area A - Cypress USD 

    Steve Shanahan


    Nancy’s Picks recommends voting against Steve Shanahan and for Carrie Hayashida: “NOTE: Please do not vote for opponent STEVE SHANAHAN, who is a known Democrat Liberal.”

    https://www.nancyspicks.com/vote-picks



    Former City Council Member of La Palma 

    https://www.cityoflapalma.org/Archive/ViewFile/Item/1691



    Steve does not have a campaign website, socials, or any clear endorsements, beyond Nancy’s Picks. 


    The OC Dems and OC GOP haven’t made any endorsements in this race.

  • Candidate for Trustee Area E - Cypress USD 

    Candi Kern


    No apparent LGBTQ red flags


    Reform California has specifically endorsed against her, listing “NOT Candi Kern” as their only preference in this race. 


    Nancy’s Picks (a conservative-leaning voter guide) recommendations about the race between Needham and Kern:

    “Comments:  Neither of candidates her are great. This is a very weak recommendation, and only bc she is running against entrenched DEM incumbent. 

    NEEDHAM is a registered Libertarian (who advocate for political freedom, but in my opinion, sometime go too far in opposition to some authority). Surprisingly, Needham has the endorsement of the Association of Cypress Teachers (ACT), which is the local Teacher’s union, which almost always goes to the Democrat incumbent. Needham’s opponent is Democrat CANDI KERN, a Democrat, who has lots of academia supporting her though. However, neither of the candidates make any expression of PARENTS’ RIGHTS, which is so need need to be represented in our very liberal Schools.” https://www.nancyspicks.com/vote-picks

    Kern’s Campaign Website:

    https://www.candikern.com/


    Facebook:

    https://www.facebook.com/candice.kern.96


    Instagram:

    https://www.instagram.com/candi_kern/

    https://www.instagram.com/hapabruin93/ (private)


    Been a teacher for 19 years, and is very into the PTA and bilingual teaching:

    https://www.candikern.com/service-and-accomplishments


    A list of Supporters from her website, for cross-reference:

    https://www.candikern.com/supporters


    Candidate Statement:

    “It has been an unparalleled honor to serve on the Cypress School District Board of Trustees. As a former bilingual educator, long time PTA leader, and school board member, I have spent much of my adult life in the service of students. 

    I am exceedingly proud of our district’s accomplishments. We continue to be a destination district with passionate teachers and staff, flourishing music and STEM programs, and high achieving students. In my regular visits, I see firsthand our beautiful facilities and the extraordinary work our entire district family does in support of children. I am committed to continue being a careful steward of public funds while ensuring Cypress remains a great place to work and learn. 

    In 2023, I was recognized as Orange County Board Member of the Year for my work on behalf of students not only in Cypress, but in the county and state. I hold a Masters in Governance Certificate from the California School Boards Association. 

    I have lived in our wonderful community for nearly 30 years and have two children who have benefited greatly from our remarkable schools.

    I care deeply about Cypress schools and pledge to keep working hard so our students continue to thrive.

    Board of Trustees, Area E”

    https://www.candikern.com/ballot-statement


  • Candidate for Trustee Area E - Cypress USD 



    No apparent LGBTQ red flags


    Endorsed by the Association of Cypress Teachers


    Nancy’s Picks (a conservative-leaning voter guide) recommendations about the race between Needham and Kern:

    “Comments:  Neither of candidates her are great. This is a very weak recommendation, and only bc she is running against entrenched DEM incumbent. 

    NEEDHAM is a registered Libertarian (who advocate for political freedom, but in my opinion, sometime go too far in opposition to some authority). Surprisingly, Needham has the endorsement of the Association of Cypress Teachers (ACT), which is the local Teacher’s union, which almost always goes to the Democrat incumbent. Needham’s opponent is Democrat CANDI KERN, a Democrat, who has lots of academia supporting her though. However, neither of the candidates make any expression of PARENTS’ RIGHTS, which is so need need to be represented in our very liberal Schools.” https://www.nancyspicks.com/vote-picks

    Needham’s Campaign Website:

    https://www.needhamforcypress.com/


    Facebook:

    https://www.instagram.com/needhamforcypress/


    Instagram:

    https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562461134137


    Needham is a longtime teacher.

    Needham’s “Get to Know the Candidate” statement:

    “Throughout my career and personal life, I have been deeply rooted in education and the nurturing of young minds.  Originally from Huntington Beach, I pursued my passion for teaching by earning a Bachelor of Science in Child and Family Development with an Emphasis in Family and the Life Cycle and a minor in Sociology from San Diego State University and a Master of Arts in Education from Azusa Pacific University.  Over the years,  I have had the privilege of teaching across various school districts, including Westminster School District, Beverly Hills Unified School District, Irvine Unified School District, and Cypress School District, where I've worked with students ranging from third to sixth grade and held roles such as Student Achievement Teacher and department chair.  Beyond my professional achievements, my greatest joy comes from being a parent to two wonderful children and a wife to my husband, Joel.  Tyler, my son, is an active participant in Cypress Youth Baseball (CYB), National Junior Basketball (NJB), ice hockey, and golf.  My daughter, Meira, finds her passion in gymnastics and art classes.  Both of my children attend Frank Vessels Elementary School.  As I embark on this new chapter of running for Cypress School Board, I have made the decision to step away from teaching to devote more time to my children, my family, and the future of Cypress School District.”

    https://www.needhamforcypress.com/get-to-know-the-candidate


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Fullerton School District

North OC Community College District

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  • Candidate OUSD district 4

    Candidate, Orange County Water District District 2

    (Also, while we’re not covering this race - he’s running for U.S. President).


    Not much is known about him; he is a perennial candidate who shows up on ballots most election cycles. 




    No ballot statement for the OUSD or the OCWD races. 


    His rhetoric is far right sprinkled with a handful of left rhetoric. He is in favor of forced birthing policy and claims ‘Kamala supports abortions that kill babies’. Says ‘she is married to a Zionist Jew’. We are choosing not to promote these views by linking directly to his social media, but it can be found if you search for it. 


    When the attempt to recall Newsom took place he put his name into the hat for Governor. His old governor website says: “FUTURE POLITICAL GOAL: Democratic Political Party Nomination for President of the United States of America as a historical vote to be the First Latino President in the advancement of Racial Equity & Inclusion 2024.”


    Old website link: https://mandocaliforniagovernor.godaddysites.com


    Twitter: https://x.com/presidentmando?s=21&t=1Ai3J8LtXSBdMk_fRbpEew


    No public stance on the LBGTQ+ community, although he seems to lean into alt-right ideologies regarding several other demographics and issues.

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Orange County Water District

Municipal Water District of Orange County

  • Municipal Water District of Orange County

    District 4


    Campaign Website: https://karlforwater.com/

    “Using Water Efficiently Should Be Our Way Of Life!”



    Candidate Statement:

    “I hope to extend my 40+ years of service to the water industry for the benefit of all Orange County water users. As lead engineer for 37 years at MWDOC, I worked successfully with every

    water provider in Orange County.”



    Social Media: 

    Personal Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001578676455

    Political Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karlforwater

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karl_seckel/

    Twitter: NONE FOUND

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karl-seckel-b299731b2/




    On instagram, this candidate follows: 



    Endorsed by: 


    • Robert McVicker, Director, Municipal Water District of Orange County

    • Megan Yoo Schneider, Director Municipal Water District of Orange County

    • Joan Finnegan, Former Director Municipal Water District of Orange County

    • Larry Dick, Director Municipal Water District of Orange County

    • Al Nederhood, Director, Municipal Water District of Orange County

    • Randall Crane, Director, Municipal Water District of Orange County

    • Sat Tamaribuchi, Former Director Municipal Water District of Orange County

    • Susan Hinman, Former Director, Municipal Water District of Orange County

    • Scott Goldman, Director, South Coast Water District

    • Doug Erdman, Director, South Coast Water District

    • Bill Green, Director, South Coast Water District

    • Rick Erkeneff, Director, South Coast Water District

    • Dennis Erdman, Director, Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, former Director, South Coast Water District

    • Fred Jung, Fullerton Council Member, Director Metropolitan Water District of Southern California

    • Stephen Faessel, Anaheim Council Member, Director Metropolitan Water District of Southern California

    • Michael Gaskins, Director, El Toro Water District

    • Mark Monin, Director, El Toro Water District

    • Fred Adjarian, Director, El Toro Water District

    • Betty Olson, Director, Santa Margarita Water District

    • Saundra Jacobs, Director, Santa Margarita Water District

    • Chuck Gibson, Director, Santa Margarita Water District

    • Stephen Dopudja, Director Trabuco Canyon Water District

    • Ed Mandich, Director, Trabuco Canyon Water District

    • Glenn Acosta, Director, Trabuco Canyon Water District

    • Doug Reinhart, Director, Irvine Ranch Water District

    • Steve LaMar, Director, Irvine Ranch Water District

    • John Withers, Director, Irvine Ranch Water District

    • Peer Swan, Director, Irvine Ranch Water District

    • Jim Atkinson, Director, Director, Mesa Water

    • Marice H. Depasquale, Director, Mesa Water

    • Bill Moorehead, Director, Moulton Niguel Water District

    • Sherry Wanninger, Director, Moulton Niguel Water District

    • Adam Ereth, candidate for City of Costa Mesa Council Division 1

    • Chuck Gibson, Director, Santa Margarita Water District

    • Saundra Jacobs, Director, Santa Margarita Water District

    • Betty Olson, Director, Santa Margarita Water District

    • Laura Freese, Director, Santa Margarita Water District

    • Mike Scheafer, Director, Costa Mesa Sanitary District

    • Bob Ooten, Director, Costa Mesa Sanitary District

    • John Stephens, Mayor, Costa Mesa

    • Arlis Reynolds, Council Member, Costa Mesa

    • Manuel Chavez, Council Member, Costa Mesa

    • Jeff Harlan, Council Member, Costa Mesa

    • Dan Kalmick, Council Member, Huntington Beach

    • Natalie Moeser, Council Member, Huntington Beach

    • Rhonda Bolton, Council Member, Huntington Beach

    • Nathan Steele, Council Member, Seal Beach

    • Joe Kalmick, Council Member, Seal Beach

    • Thomas Moore, Council Member, Seal Beach

    • Oscar Rodriguez, Planning Commissioner, Huntington Beach

    • Geoff West, Bubbling Cauldron




    News:

    Seckel does not seem to have replied to the LAist’s candidate questionnaire  https://laist.com/news/politics/2024-election-california-general-water-agencies



    Follow the Money: 

    NO DONATIONS LISTED


  • Municipal Water District of Orange County

    District 4


    Campaign Website: http://www.panoforhb.com/



    Candidate Statement:

    “Vote for Pano Frousiakis for a fresh perspective and dedicated leadership in water management!”  Read it in full at the link above. 



    Social Media: 

    Personal Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100070422492953

    Political Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PanoForHB

    Political Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/panoformwdoc/

    Personal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/panofrousiakis/

    Political Twitter: https://x.com/panoforhb

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pano-f/



    On Instagram, this candidate follows: 




    On Twitter, this candidate follows:



    His campaign social media posts include:

    • Photo of Frousiakis shaking hands and smiling with Former Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy: 

    • Photo of Frousiakis shaking hands with an unknown man in front of a huge “Take America Back” Trump flag:

    • Photo of Froukiakis’s truck, which he calls the “Panomobile,” festooned with copies of his own campaign sign alongside a prominently placed Trump 2024 campaign sign


    In May 2023, he responded to HB Councilwoman Moser’s agenda item in public comment.  For full context, the HB City Council has an invocation before every meeting.  There used to be a process with the HB interfaith community wherein different faiths would be represented via a rotating invocation speaker from within the established interfaith council, and there was no favor shown to any single faith practice.  When the current council majority was elected at the end of 2022, they did away with this practice, and for the last two years only Christianity has been reflected in the invocation.  Councilwoman Moser, in an attempt to ensure the council was not giving unfair credence to any one faith, put forth an agenda item suggesting that there instead be a moment of silence, rather than a dedication to a single faith. 


    Pano spoke on this matter, saying “I’m really troubled by this new agenda item that’s come out (...) that is seeking to fundamentally remove our invocation from our meeting, and is a time-old tradition of our city council, and to replace it with a moment of silence.  Well, there’s a couple things I want to go over here.  First of all, the tradition that we’ve had in our community of having an invocation - that’s really emblematic of the unity that our community has.  When it comes to all the different faith backgrounds, when it comes to all the different, um speakers, and different religious figures who have come before here - it’s not just been Christians, it’s been many different faith backgrounds. And so, for us to have an item on the agenda that’s been proposed by a member on this council that very soon, most likely, is going to be trying to seek your votes for the next election - it undermines the very unity that it represents in our community.  Which is for us to respect each others’ faiths and convictions. It’s not possible to be able to just say, hey, we’re just going to have you pray in your room, and that’s all you need - I mean, that’s a really dangerous form of logic right there. Because you can say, oh, you can have all the constitutional rights you want in your bedroom - well, thank you so much for giving me the right to have rights in my bedroom, I really do appreciate that, but we need to be able to have the rights to be able to express ourselves, and our faiths, in a public forum.  And a moment of silence just isn’t going to do that. (...) And so really the question I have to pose to Councilwoman Moser regarding this item is, is it really about inclusivity? Your item?  You know, it seems to me to be a guise of neutrality that’s really covering a form of discrimination, which is the discrimination against our people of faith. Because many residents in our community have told me, especially of the Christian faith, but of all faith backgrounds, have said, we’re concerned that our rights are being trampled on and that we’re not being heard, based on this agenda item. So, given that information, I just want to say that we as a community should be upholding the traditions that unite us.  And so remember - with progress, progress is not about discarding our values.  Progress is about upholding the values that allow us to best serve our community.” 



    Endorsed by: 

    Nancy’s Picks (conservative-leaning):

    https://www.nancyspicks.com/vote-picks


    Scott Baugh

    OCGOP

    Patriots for Freedom PAC

    http://www.panoforhb.com/endorsements.html


    “I am proud to also have the endorsement of the Republican Party of Orange County, Lincoln Club, California Republican Assembly, and Reform California.”

    https://onyourballot.vote411.org/m/candidate-detail.do?id=69334974#c69334974





    News:

    In a July 2021 OC Register article, Pano was photographed sitting next to Gracey Van Der Mark, prior to her 2022 election to the council, at a city council meeting.  He reacts in a negatively shocked expression at then Mayor-Pro-Tem Delgleize stating that she would support the appointment of Rhonda Bolton to City Council to replace Tito Ortiz, who stepped down. In the photo, he wears a shirt emblazoned with a ‘Gracey for City Council’ message; Van Der Mark had also interviewed for the role and was hoping for the appointment. 


    According to this Calmatters article, Pano founded the local group, HB Patriots. The website defines the group as “HB Patriots is a 501c4 political organization dedicated to uniting Conservatives in Huntington Beach, CA. Our focus is on endorsing local candidates and actively participating in the city's politics. As a networking organization, we bring together individuals who share a common vision of promoting conservative values and principles. Join us and be part of a community that works towards a common goal of advancing conservatism in Huntington Beach”.


    The article references Pano, saying, “Though he’s happy with the overall direction of the council, Frousiakis concedes that “the past few months have been getting a little bit off-track.” He established a political organization this year, the HB Patriots, and is running again for city council in 2024 with a message about getting back to local quality-of-life issues.  “Unfortunately, I feel that our residents get sidelined as a result of that. I feel sidelined as a resident,” he said. “The other issues that are being talked about, that’s why I vote for president.”



    Follow the Money: 

    • Aug 2024 - $3000 from Paula Prizio, Chairwoman of Next Gen, the youth program of the Republican Party of Orange County

    • July 2024 - $500 from Ledsam Contracting Incorporated

  • Municipal Water District of Orange County

    District 6


    Campaign Website: 

    “I am passionate and committed to the proportional and equitable distribution of water to our diverse economic and cultural communities, always considering the environmental benefits and risks.“



    Candidate Statement:

    “I will advocate for: Transparency in planning for climate change challenges of reliable water supply imports. Fair distribution and sustainable supply of safe and clean water for all of Orange County.” Read the statement in full at the link above. 



    Social Media: 

    Facebook: NONE FOUND

    Instagram: NONE FOUND

    Twitter: NONE FOUND


    On instagram, this candidate follows: 

    N/A





    Endorsed by: 

    Josh Newman

    Dave Min

    Canyon Democrats - 

    Iranian American Democrats of California - 

    Orange County Democrats - 

    Orange County Young Democrats - 

    Planned Parenthood Action Fund of Orange and San Bernardino Counties - 

    Women for American Values and Ethics (WAVE) - 



    News:


    Gomez did not reply to the LAist candidate questionnaire. 



    Follow the Money: 

    • Jul 2024 - $500 from Canyon Democrats

    • Sep 2024 - $500 from Cottie-Petrie Norris for Assembly 2024

    • Sep 2024 - $500 from Planned Parenthood of Orange and San Bernardino Counties

  • Municipal Water District of Orange County

    District 6


    Campaign Website: NONE FOUND

    Personal Website: https://www.pramodkunju.com/



    Candidate Statement:

    “As an advocate for small businesses, start-ups, and disadvantaged communities, Pramod understands the importance of ensuring that all voices are heard and represented.”  

    Read the full statement in full at the link above. 



    Social Media: 

    Personal Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pramodkunju

    Professional Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AIGuru/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dataguru123/

    Personal Twitter: https://x.com/pramodkunju

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pramodkunju/

    YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@datascienceandartificialin1452



    On instagram, this candidate follows: 

    Kamala Harris - https://www.instagram.com/kamalaharris/

    Tulsi Gabbard - https://www.instagram.com/tulsigabbard/

    Irvine Neighbors - https://www.instagram.com/irvineneighbors/




    Endorsed by: 

    None Found



    News:

    None Found


    Pramod did not reply to the LAist candidate questionnaire https://laist.com/news/politics/voter-game-plan-2024-general-election-orange-county 



    Follow the Money: 

    NO DONATIONS LISTED


  • Municipal Water District of Orange County

    District 6


    Campaign Website: NONE FOUND,but you can view his bio here.


    Candidate Statement:

    “I am a staunch advocate for transparency in public records and have tirelessly fought against conflicts of interest in the water community. I will continue to oppose special interests in Orange County that seek to shift costs to you.” You can read the statement in full at the link above. 



    Social Media: 

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Jeff4WaterBoard2016/

    Instagram: NONE FOUND

    Twitter: NONE FOUND

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmthomas2/




    On instagram, this candidate follows: 

    N/A

    ***However, on his facebook page he does follow Austin Lumbard, the Mayor of Tustin.  You can see Lumbard’s affiliations on his instagram page, here. 




    Endorsed by: 

    OC GOP

    https://ocgop.org/irvine/


    Nancy’s Picks (conservative-leaning):

    https://www.orangejuiceblog.com/2024/09/all-the-candidates-on-the-ballot-this-fall-in-the-oc/


    Orange Juice Blog (liberal-leaning):

    https://www.orangejuiceblog.com/2024/09/all-the-candidates-on-the-ballot-this-fall-in-the-oc/




    News:


    “Election: Water District Candidates Discuss the Issues” - SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

    https://www.picketfencemedia.com/sanclementetimes/eye-on-sc/election-water-district-candidates-discuss-the-issues/article_54eb612f-e1b7-5769-a53c-44e57bf8dedf.html

    “Advocating for transparency with public records and fighting conflicts of interest in the water community have been priorities since I first took office. I will continue the battle against special interests in Orange County who are seeking to shift costs to others.”



    Follow the Money: 

    NO DONATIONS LISTED, but he made numerous  loans to his own campaign


  • Incumbent

    House of Representatives 45th District

    Summary: Mixed statements about LGBTQ+ support (flip-flops), on record voting against multiple LGBTQ+ bills


    Receiving money from Musk: https://www.ocregister.com/2024/09/17/elon-musks-pac-is-spending-money-to-boost-rep-michelle-steel-in-ca-45/ 


    General contact email: info@michellesteelca.com

    General phone number: 714-202-6173


    Campaign manager: Eric Dutra, LinkedIn


    Previous positions:

    2020 - 2022 CA-48

    2015 - 2021 OC Board of Supervisors, District 2 & Chairwoman

    2007 - 2015 California State Board of Equalization


    Overview:

    Michelle Steel’s most prominent campaign platform is around lowering taxes for Californians. However, in 2022, she voted against the Inflation Reduction Act during her congressional tenure, thereby voting against lowering prices on prescription drugs, health insurance, and everyday energy costs. This is a core example of Michelle Steel’s long history of flip-flopping her public comments on issues and her voting record. After her 2014 comment at a Tea Party event went viral in 2020, she issued a statement, saying her anti gay-marraige comments were “made in jest.” Over the next four years, she would go on to vote in opposition of LGBTQ rights via voting in support for Parents’ Bill of Rights and Life at Conception Act, and against Respect for Marriage Act, Equality Act, among many more. Her recent stance in support of IVF and selective pro-life stand in opposition to her voting record that restrict reproductive rights.


    During her time as Chairwoman of OC Board of Supervisors, she routinely shut down efforts at transparency and building trust between the County and its constituents.


    Endorsements

    • California Pro-Life Council

    • AIPAC

    • Maggie’s List

    • National Rifle Association

    • VIEW PAC

    • Tea Party

    • OC Sheriff Don Barnes


    Affiliations & Support for

    • Dan Crenshaw, TX-02 -- anti-LGBTQ, “culture wars”

    • Young Kim, CA-40

    • Rob Simms, Convergence firm

    • Hemmer Reports, Fox News

    • Tucker Carlson

    • Trump



    Voting Record: Congressional

    • No:

      • Respect for Marriage Act, 2022

      • LGBTQI+ Data Inclusion Act, 2022

      • Global Respect Act, 2022

      • CROWN Act (Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair Act, 2021)

      • For the People Act, 2021

      • Equality Act, 2021

      • Right to Contraception, 2022

      • Ensuring Access to Abortion Act, 2022

      • Women’s Health Protection Act, 2021

      • Paycheck Fairness Act, 2021

      • Inflation Reduction Act, 2022

      • Affordable Insulin Now Act, 2022

    • Yes

      • Parents Bill of Rights -- anti-LGBTQ bill (cosponsor)

      • LGBTQ Business Equal Credit Enforcement and Investment Act

      • Life at Conception Act, 2021 (co-sponsor, later withdrawn) -- grant legal personhood to fertilized eggs


    Voting Record: Supervisorial

    • 2020, approve law enforcement appreciation events on the heels of BLM protests

    • 2017, sole dissenting vote in funding for the County’s Human Relations Commission

    • 2017, voted to block release of report detailing an increase in hate crime and grant county supervisors the ability to directly control the commission’s staff


    Public Comments:

    • Tea Party meeting, 2014: Steel claims she withdrew her daughter from UC Santa Cruz after she began expressing interest in voting for Obama and supporting gay marriage

    • 2018: Public release regarding anti-sanctuary cities and states


    Contributions

    • BP industries -- oil and gas

    • AIPAC

    • UpFront Inc

    • Top industry: retired, at nearly $1M this cycle

    • Ahmanson family, via Fieldstead & Company -- Ahmanson family has a history of funding anti-LGBTQ candidates and measures. Ahmanson Family Source 1, Source 2, Source 3

  • House of Representatives 45th District

    Summary: Limited 1st person pro-LGBTQ+ content, Multiple 3rd party pro-LGBTQ+ affiliations/endorsements


    General contact email: info@derektranforcongress.com

    General contact number: 714-261-9738


    Campaign manager: Jacob Barr. LinkedIn

    Deputy campaign manager: Rachel Winningham. LinkedIn

    Committee email address: jay@bluewavepolitics.com 



    Bio

    Consumer Rights attorney and managing attorney at Feher Law, who focus on employment and personal injury law. Credits military with so much learning; joined at 18. “Beginning of service path.” Army reserves, active duty in 2003 Iraqi conflict, based in the US.


    Overview:

    Derek Tran’s platform has three main points:

    1. Abortion and women’s rights

    2. Investing in American workers and their families. Consumer rights. Inflation Reduction Act.

    3. Common sense gun reform

    Beyond a single post on Harvey Milk day (linked below), there is no explicit commentary on LGBTQ+ allyship. There is secondary support, via some of his endorsements and canvassing support. Combing through public comments also rendered no explicit pro-LGBTQ commentary.


    Explicit LGBTQ+ related:

    • IG Harvey Milk Day -- “we can never forget his sacrifice and must continue to build upon his legacy of advocacy against hate and discrimination”

    • No pride posts

    • Judy Chu campaign recently canvassed for Derek Tran. Judy Chu CA-CD 28 has a pro-LGBTQ voting record, including Yes on Equality Act (HR5) 

    • Adam Schiff supporting campaign. Schiff is vice-chair of Congressional LGBTQ+ Equality Caucus

    • Participated in event with Lavender Dems OC, April General Meeting. No content or follow-up found. Derek Tran does not follow them on social media.


    Endorsements:

    • Stonewall Democrats

    • Equality CA

    • Brady PAC

    • CA Federation of Teachers

    • Human Rights Campaign PAC

    • J-Street PAC

    • Planned Parenthood Action Fund

    • Reproductive Freedom For All

    • CADEM AAPI Caucus


    Public comments:

    • Ed Branding podcast. When talking about why run now, he says the district has not received representation. Cites that there has never been a Vietnamese representative from this district, which holds a large Vietnamese population. Also in this episode talked very positively about his experience in the military, including a regret of not serving full 20-year term. Learned about camaraderie. His why across all his experiences is a duty to serve.

    • Chamber of Commerce talk -- bipartisanship. Reduction in insulin costs, to benefit working class folks. Interested in diplomacy on the world stage, infrastructure investment, attention to veteran mental health. Housing crisis tied to mental health crisis, primary to affordable housing. Investing in social service providers. 100% pro choice


    Political Affiliations:

    • Social media accounts he follows:

      • PORAC -- Peace Officers Research Assoc. Of CA. Largest association representing CA law enforcement agencies.

      • Reproductive Freedom For All

      • Stonewall Dems

45th District, House of Representatives

67th District, CA State Assembly