2026
Below you will find every single race that can be found in Irvine, 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.
Irvine
City Council Race
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Irvine City Council District 1 Candidate
“SUKHEE KANG | Small Businessman/Educator
Irvine has been my home for more than three decades. My wife, Joanne and I raised our family here, and I have dedicated my career to serving our community with integrity, experience, and results.
I served two terms as Irvine Mayor and Irvine City Councilmember, leading our city through the Great Recession while maintaining balanced budgets without furloughs or core service cuts and
while strengthening financial reserves. During my tenure, I secured more than $121 million in transportation funding, expanded community services, invested in education, and helped preserve Irvine’s reputation as one of America’s safest and best-managed cities.
Most recently, I served as a Presidential Appointee and Regional Administrator for the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA), overseeing billions of dollars in federal assets and capital projects across eight states. This experience reinforced my commitment to fiscal responsibility, accountability, transparency, and protecting taxpayer dollars.
I am running for Irvine City Council District 1 to ensure responsible spending, strengthen public safety, support educational excellence, improve public transportation, promote local businesses, safeguard open spaces and promote thoughtful growth. Irvine deserves experienced leadership that puts Irvine residents first and delivers results.
I respectfully ask for your vote by November 3.
Website: sukheekang4irvine.com
Sukhee Kang”
Email: sukheekang4irvine@gmail.com
Campaign Website: https://www.sukheekang4irvine.com/
Priorities:
Fiscal Responsibility & Accountable Government
Balanced Irvine’s budget for four straight years during the Great Recession, while cities across California faced layoffs and service cuts.
Built strong financial reserves through disciplined, long-term planning, leaving Irvine more resilient and fiscally secure for future downturns.
On City Council, Sukhee will champion a balanced budget that protect strong reserves, and lead long-term financial planning policies that invest in stability and resilience.
Public Safety, Health & Community Well-Being
Strengthened public safety and community values by creating the Gratitude and Honor Memorial to honor Irvine residents who gave their lives in service.
Expanded access to healthcare for over 1,000 uninsured children and families through the Irvine Children’s Health Program, leveraging state and county funding to maximize impact.
Sukhee will be a leading voice at preserving this legacy of keeping Irvine the safest and healthiest city for all who this great city home.
Education & Investing in the Next Generation
As Irvine’s “education mayor,” Sukhee built strong partnerships with IUSD and TUSD to align city leadership and school district priorities.
Consistently invested city resources in public education, improving learning environments and expanding opportunity for Irvine’s students and families.
Sukhee will fight to ensure the City is supporting IUSD & TUSD by investing in school facilities, student safety, and academic achievement. He will also prioritize a strong partnership with local colleges and universities to expand opportunities for Irvine youth.
Housing & Responsible Growth
Led thoughtful housing growth at the Great Park that balanced new development with Irvine’s master-planned community character.
Advanced housing policies focused on affordability, infrastructure readiness, and protecting neighborhood quality of life.
Irvine must promote smart growth that reflects community input, diverse senior and family housing options, and affordability that enhances quality of life. Sukhee will bring that outlook and experience in shaping housing policies.
Transportation & Traffic Relief
Secured $121.3 million in Proposition 116 funding to modernize and expand Irvine’s transportation infrastructure.
Delivered transit and mobility improvements that reduced congestion and prepared the city for future growth.
Sukhee wants to expand Irvine CONNECT and leverage partnerships with state and federal agencies to secure Irvine more funding for our roads, traffic relief, and public transit.
Economic Vitality & Support for Local Businesses
Built strong partnerships with major employers and small businesses to keep Irvine one of the most business-friendly cities in the nation.
Promoted transparency and economic growth through regular "Business State of the City" addresses that prioritized job creation and long-term investment.
Sukhee's leadership will recommit Irvine to fostering job creation, attracting employer investments, and supporting small businesses to maintain Irvine’s strong fiscal foundation and global acclaim.
Environmental Sustainability & Protecting Irvine’s Future
Positioned Irvine as a national leader in sustainability through smart growth, energy efficiency, water conservation, and open-space preservation.
Advanced long-range environmental planning that protects public health, lowers long-term costs, and keeps Irvine resilient and economically strong.
Sukhee champions forward-thinking environmental policies that keep Irvine at the forefront of sustainability and innovation. He wants to ensure future generations inherit a resilient, livable, and thriving city.
Any Other Interesting Info:
Kang endorsed Xavier Becerra during the 2026 gubernatorial primary election season, and Bacerra’s campaign made a post about this endorsement, with the caption, “I am honored to have earned the personal trust and support of the former Mayor of Irvine, Sukhee Kang. We both served in the federal government as presidential appointees under former President Joe Biden, and share priorities rooted in efficiency, transparency, and government accountability.” source
Kang served in the Biden administration from 2023-2024 as a Regional Administrator for the General Services Administration. Kang's region included: Arizona, California, Nevada, Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, American Samoa, East Asia, and Guam. source
Kang was elected in 2008 to the seat of Mayor of Irvine, where he became the first Korean-American to serve as Mayor of a major American city. source
Per an article in Character Media, ‘A 38-year resident of Orange County, Kang immigrated to the U.S. in 1977 after graduating from Korea University. He previously worked in the private sector in the Orange and Riverside counties before entering the public sector, following the L.A. riots in 1992. Kang spent some time working different Korean American community organizations, including serving as chairman of the Korean American Coalition of Orange County, before branching out into politics.’ source
Kang ran for a seat in the CA state senate in 2016, when he was 63 years old. source
Kang also ran for Congress in 2011 in a highly competitive race against Republican John Campbell, after redistricting created preliminary maps of the new district which combined parts of the 48th and 46th congressional districts, which were previously represented by Campbell and Republican Dana Rohrabacher. Kang did not win this race. Source source
In 2010, he was named one of the “Great Immigrants” by the Andrew Carnegie Foundation. source
Most of his political biographies reference the 1992 LA Riots as a turning point in his life prompting him to get involved in civics, as a result of witnessing the damage to the Korean community and the lack of ‘political clout or visibility’ for the Korean-American community. Source
Context: For anyone unaware, while the beating of Rodney King by the LAPD and the inability of the majority white and wealth jury in Simi Valley (Ventura County) to find the officers guilty was the spark of the LA Riots, the conflict between the Korean community and the Black community in Los Angeles that unfolded during the riots was deeply connected to the Black community’s frustration and anguish over lived experiences of racism. 13 days after Rodney King was brutally beaten on camera by LAPD officers, 15-year-old Latasha Harlins, a Black child, was shot and killed by Soon Ja Du, a 49-year-old Korean shopkeeper, who accused Harlins of attempting to steal a $1.79 bottle of orange juice, even though Harlins was found with the money in her hand when emergency services arrived. In a jury trial, Soo Ja Du was found guilty of volunteer manslaughter, with a recommended sentence of 16 years in prison - but the judge, Joyce Karlin, disagreed with the sentencing recommendation of the jury, and instead Soon Ja Du left the courtroom with a sentence of 5 years probation, 400 hours of community service, and a demand that she pay for the funeral costs of the 15-year-old Harlins. The shooting, the trial, and the sentencing radically enflamed tensions and smaller-scale violence (deadly and otherwise) between the Black and Korean communities in LA, and when the LAPD officers were found not-guilty six months later, those tensions exploded. The anger that the Black community felt at the consistent miscarriage of justice and the way in which Black lives were institutionally made less important was directed, in part, at the Korean community, where rioters expressed that unheard anger through the destruction and damage of approximately 2,000 Korean-owned businesses across Los Angeles, totalling nearly half of all the damage suffered throughout the region as a result. Seeking to protect their community from harm, many Koreans, including many who had military service experience both in the US Military and the Korean military, set up defensive positions in their neighborhoods - the origin of the term, ‘Koreans on rooftops’. The total death toll at the end of the riots was 55, with 44 of those deaths being attributed to something other than the police or national guard, and an estimated 2,383 injured. It’s also worth noting that while, culturally, we call these riots ‘The LA Riots’, there was an impact in Orange County as well. While the widespread violence was relatively contained to Los Angeles county, many college campuses and community groups held non-violent protests across Orange County, and gun stores were flooded with customers seeking to increase their arsenal to protect themselves from what they imagined was coming - customers who included Korean-Americans in Orange County who felt anxiety over what was happening to the north. In the aftermath of the riots, there was a LOT of work to do to heal the chasm between the Korean and Black communities in Southern California. That is the world Sukhee Kang is describing when he expresses that he entered politics and civic engagement in the aftermath of the LA Riots. *Disclaimer: This is a basic explanation of the overall context and cannot possibly be inclusive of all important details, intersectional context, and historical nuance. We do NOT claim to be experts, and we highly recommend you dig deeper into this topic for a more mature and complex understanding.
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Social Media Links:
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
Kim Carr (Former HB City Council)
Alex Mohajer (Irvine commissioner, Fmr. president of the Stonewall Democrats, openly gay, partner of Pride at the Pier)
Irvine United Congregational Church (very LGBTQ+ friendly church, regularly offers its space for community partners like Planned Parenthood, OC Equality Coalition, DSA OC, and more)
Candidate’s Public Comments:
Kang’s political biographies often reference his political awakening as occurring during the 1992 LA Riots when he witnessed the damage done to the Korean community and their lack of community protection. In 2020, Impact Mania asked him,
Question: Both the 1992 LA riots and the George Floyd protests were fueled by police brutality towards African American men. How do you see this issue, and what has and has not changed since 1992? Why is history repeating itself?
Answer: “Two incidents of police brutality resemble their nature of racism or racial bias. The only difference is that the LA Riots severely damaged K-Town in Los Angeles where many Korean businesses were targeted by the protesters, but the current protest has been spreading all over the U.S. expressing their anger of injustice and extreme racism.
The Korean community was unprotected in 1992 and therefore, damages were unprecedented. It was, indeed, a lesson learned for the Korean American community that they couldn’t live alone. They learned how to build bridges with other ethnic communities and the Korean American community has contributed a great deal in economic prosperity for the region and social justice.
So, on these protests that are spreading across the country, while I support “Black Lives Matter,” violence should never be justified and tolerated. It reminds me of Dr. Martin Luther King’s immortal speech: I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed — “We hold these truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal.” After all, this is the United States of America where everybody is welcomed and respected regardless of origin, color of their skin, or religion.
We all should be united, not divided. I sincerely hope this protest ends soon.” source
Environmental Docs “Irvine Mayor Sukhee Kang on Wednesday afternoon, and he told me that Shea’s claims are baseless and that she could have seen the documents — which are shielded from the public on grounds of attorney-client privilege — if she had only asked for them during weekly briefings with city staff.”
When the Supreme Court made gay marriage legal across the country in 2015, Kang posted, “I am relieved and pleased that the Supreme Court of the United States has ruled that all states must treat marriage equally. Marriage equality has been a settled issue in California, and now it is settled law everywhere. This landmark ruling by the highest court means that couples and families throughout the country will be treated fairly and equitably, with the full rights accorded under the Constitution and the law.” source
Endorsed by:
Working Families Party
Tom Umberg (CA State Senate)
Sharon Williams (IUSD)
Gavin Huntley Fenner (IUSD)
Lynn Davis (TUSD)
Carolyn Inmon (SOCCD)
Connar Traut (Buena Park Mayor)
Gina Clayton Tarvin (Ocean View Unified School District Board President)
Xavier Becerra
Mike Levin
IAPAC
Democratic Municipal Officials
Gun Sense Voter
Unite Here Local 11
Candidate in the News:
Public Voting Record:
Sukhee previously served on the Irvine City Council between 2004 and 2012. During this time, the city council was constrained in their ability to have LGBTQ-related agenda items up for discussion and vote by Measure N, a 1989 ballot initiative passed by Irvine voters that amended the Irvine Municipal Code to prohibit the city from recognizing sexual orientation as a fundamental human right or enacting local anti-discrimination protections for gay and lesbian individuals. This measure was not repealed until 2020. As a result, there is not much LGBTQ-related vote record for Sukhee for us to review.
$650.00 Diamond Pleasanton Inc Pasadena, CA 91106 06/16/2026
The 1962 PAC of the Lincoln Club of Orange County, an explicitly anti-LGBTQ group, has spent $17468.55 so far during this campaign to OPPOSE Kang. source
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Irvine City Council District 1 Candidate (Incumbent)
“MELINDA LIU | City of Irvine Councilmember/Attorney
Dear Neighbor,
For the past two years, I have had the privilege of serving as your City of Irvine Council District 1 Councilmember. When I ran as a new candidate backed by grassroots support in our community, I made our shared goals my policy priorities. We have delivered practical solutions to meet your needs in Council District 1 and Irvine.
In my first short term, I have accomplished critical services and infrastructures for public safety, education, and quality of life:
Initiated the first community center and library in Council District 1.
Expanded Irvine Connect to alleviate Northwood High School traffic.
Improved pedestrian safety citywide.
Ensured new housing projects meet strict fire standards.
Promoted economic development for small and start-up businesses.
Created accessible housing options for young professionals.
Developed a vital childcare program for working parents.
Started an AAPI focused senior nutrition program using private funding.
I have listened closely to your concerns and delivered solutions with thoughtful deliberation, fiscal responsibility, and full transparency. Together, we can continue to ensure that Irvine remains the best place for families to live, work, and play.
Thank you for your continued trust and I humbly ask for your support to serve our community for the next four years.
Melinda Liu | Liu4Irvine.com”
Email: MelindaLiu@CityofIrvine.org
Campaign Website: https://www.liu4irvine.com/
Priorities:
Public safety and infrastructure
Economic opportunity and fiscal responsibility
Strong neighborhoods and family-friendly policies
Inclusive representation and transparent government
Improving public safety and walkability by supporting transportation initiatives such as expanded Leading Pedestrian Intervals (LPIs) at intersections, enhancing safety for pedestrians, seniors, and families.
Strengthening community engagement, including helping launch Irvine’s first Flag Day celebration at City Hall, honoring veterans, active-duty service members, and civic leaders.
Amplifying resident voices at City Hall, ensuring that neighborhood concerns, small business needs, and family priorities are heard and reflected in city decisions.
Advocating for responsible governance, guided by her professional background as an attorney, real estate broker, and certified mediator, bringing thoughtful analysis and balanced solutions to complex issues.
Priorities from Current Non Campaign Website: https://www.melindaliuirvine.com/
Transportation
Providing alternatives to car dependency and focusing on a multimodal transit system.
Expanded the Irvine Connect bus system to include the Northwood High School area.
Introduced and enacted Leading Pedestrian Intervals to improve pedestrian visibility at high traffic intersections.
Supported bicycle infrastructure across the City, including addressing the shortage of bike storage locations.
Public Safety
Enhancing resident safety through collaboration with the Irvine Police Department and Orange County Fire Authority, while ensuring that essential tools are accessible for first responders.
Introduced a "Sober Living and Group Homes Ordinance" memorandum to regulate group homes within Irvine.
Hosted a Fire Safety Town Hall with first responders to keep residents informed and ready.
Supported updating the fire severity zone maps as proposed by OC Fire Authority.
Housing Affordability
Engaging with everyone, from young professionals to retiring longtime residents, can live, work, and play in Irvine.
Serves as the Vice Chair of the Orange County Housing Finance Trust, promoting housing affordability across the County.
Approved $1.5 million in funding for the One Irvine Program.
Approved $500,000 to support the Irvine CARES Program for low-income residents.
Fostering Community Growth
Formulating strategic partnerships and investments with stakeholders, while focusing on community benefits to ensure opportunities for all.
Introduced a memorandum to build a Permanent Library/Community Center in Irvine's District 1 neighborhood.
Approved a Business License Exemption Fee for small businesses.
Approved the creation of the Canopy Retail Center in Great Park, providing a retail center for residents in the surrounding area.
Supporting Families and Seniors
Focusing on providing the tools and resources for families, ranging from childcare to older adult care.
Serves as the City's Liaison for Irvine and Tustin Unified School Districts.
Co-sponsored a memorandum to expand childcare coverage for ages 0-4.
Hosted an Older Adults Resource Fair, bringing 25 organizations to Irvine, focusing on Medicare enrollment, legal support services, and financial assistance.
Any Other Interesting Info:
Melinda Liu is a member of the Irvine City Council in California, representing District 1. She assumed office on December 10, 2024. Her current term ends in 2026.
Liu has been affiliated with the following organizations:
California Bar Association
Orange County Association of Realtors
Orange County Bar Association
Orange County Asian American Bar Association
Social Media Links:
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
Follows Clue
Follow Katie porter
Follows mike carroll
Follows octaxpayers
Follows defendherrights
Follows joekerr
Candidate’s Public Comments:
Irvine land swap By Yusra Farzan | LAist - December 11, 2025
"Irvine city leaders approved a land swap with property developer FivePoint in a 4-3 vote Tuesday, greenlighting the development of 1,300 market-rate units that won’t have to comply with affordable housing requirements."
“In the end, Councilmember Melinda Liu introduced a motion to approve the land swap and to prohibit expenditure of any portion of the $15 million on the design or development of a columbarium for cremated remains. That motion passed 4-3.
Endorsed by:
Dave Min (US Rep)
Mike Levin (US Rep)
Lou Correa (US Rep)
Ted Leiu (US Rep)
State Sen. Tom Umberg (D)
Orange County, Calif., Democratic Party
International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 12
International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT) District Council 36
Iron Workers District Council CA-NV-AZ-HI
Laborers' International Union of North America (LIUNA) Local 652
National Union of Healthcare Workers
Orange County Employees Association
Roofers and Water Proofers Local 220
Sheet Metal Workers Union (SMART) Local 105
Southern California District Council of Laborers
Teamsters Joint Council 42
United Association (UA) Local 582
United Association (UA) Steam-Refrigeration-Air Conditioning-Pipefitters Local Union 250
Western States Regional Council of Carpenters Local 714
Human Decency (Sway voting group by Kristin)
The Los Angeles/Orange Counties Building and Construction Trades Council
Women for American Values and Ethics
Women in Leadership PAC
Candidate in the News:
Irvine Dream Run Back in Great Park This May 9 By Businesswire March 3rd, 2026
"The Irvine Dream Run reflects the very best of our city — a strong commitment to the entrepreneurial ecosystem and families coming together in a positive, uplifting environment,” said Councilmember Melinda Liu.
“Irvine is known for its innovation and quality of life, and events like the Dream Run bring those strengths together in a meaningful way. I’m excited to see residents, business leaders, and young runners alike gather at the Great Park to celebrate community, perseverance, and the spirit that makes Irvine such a special place to live and grow."
"Liu, an immigrant, said the effort is aimed at protecting the basic rights of people who live or work in Irvine."
“Imagine if you go to a different country and they can just sweep you up and do whatever to you. That’s what we’re talking about. We’re a country of law and order,” she said."
Irvine City Council Splits on Plans for Future of Great Park By Noah Biesiada | Voice of OC - December 15, 2025
"Councilwoman Melinda Liu highlighted how many of the homeowners around the park had objected to a columbarium due to cultural concerns about living near the dead, and that it was a “surprise” to still be talking about it."
“We’ve been working on this to reflect the resident’s wishes to have a library, working with everyone around staff,” Liu said. “Somehow, the columbarium was sent in there without talking to anybody. To enter this poison pill, it’s quite frankly unfair."
"Councilmember Melinda Liu said it’s important to make sure resources for the LGBTQIA+ community are available since residents may not feel comfortable advocating for themselves."
“Folks in the LGBTQ communities often don’t feel safe enough to come out and seek that help,” Liu said, “so it is upon us as decision makers to create – proactively – that space for them to feel safe and provide the service and support for them.”
"An upcoming event on Thursday, Sept. 4, aimed to help stop preventable gun deaths will provide free locks and firearm safety education to the public."
"Fifth District Supervisor Katrina Foley and Irvine Councilmember Melinda Liu are co-hosting the gun safety town hall in Irvine from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Quail Hill Community Center."
Irvine Looks to Crack Down on Sober Living Homes By Angelina Hicks | Voice of OC May 13, 2025
“A memo from Liu, included with Tuesday night’s agenda, emphasized the need to control more of the regulations among these facilities that can be problematic."
“In Irvine, several Sober Living Homes were identified as a result of concerns over violations of health and safety codes relating to patient care,” reads the memo. “Therefore, it is urgent and essential for local governments to enhance enforcement against facilities that are unlicensed or in violation.”
Public Voting Record:
5/12/26 Establishment of an Annual City of Irvine Women's Conference - Vice Mayor Mai's Friendly Amendment - Voted NO
IMPORTANT CLARIFICATION: The Friendly Amendment by Vice Mayor Mai was not whether or not to have a Women’s Conference annually in Irvine, but specifically where the funding for that conference would come from. Mai’s amendment was to ensure funding came from community partners, not the city’s own coffers. As far as we can tell from reviewing the voting record, Liu’s vote was not based on the existence of the Women’s Conference itself, but on the funding source.
$406.70 spent in OPPOSITION of Liu by 1962 PAC of the Lincoln Club of Orange County
$10450.04 spent in OPPOSITION of Liu by 1962 PAC of the Lincoln Club of Orange County
Anaheim/Orange County Hotel & Lodging Association Political Action Committee (AOCHLA PAC) paid $650
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Irvine City Council District 1 Candidate
“JOHN PARK | City of Irvine Commissioner/Businessowner
Every election, some candidates talk. They promise. They win. Nothing happens.
Residents still sit in traffic on Culver, worry about fire risk in our hillsides, and watch Irvine become less affordable. Our city council chases costly pet projects. Meanwhile the city faces a nearly $50 million deficit in just a few short years. Enough. It is time to get back to basics.
We have lived in District 1 continuously for 26 years, first in Northpark and now in Orchard Hills. We are still raising our family here, with our youngest currently in an Irvine public school. This is
not a campaign stop. This is home.
I serve on the Irvine Finance Commission, having previously served as its Chairman, and have also served as Planning Commissioner and Transportation Commissioner. This experience will allow me to hit the ground running on day one.
This is not the time for nostalgia. We need forward-thinking leadership ready to tackle today's challenges.
My priorities: Fiscal responsibility, Public safety, Traffic relief,
Fire mitigation, Open spaces and trails, Affordability, Educational leadership
I am endorsed by Orange County Sheriff Don Barnes and numerous elected officials who serve Irvine and Orange County.
Back to basics. Finally.
John Park | JohnPark4Irvine.com | (949) 264-3397”
Email: ask@johnpark4irvine.com
Campaign Website: https://johnpark4irvine.com/
Priorities:
FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY
TRANSPARENCY
TRAFFIC RELIEF
PUBLIC SAFETY
FIRE MITIGATION
OPEN SPACES AND TRAILS
AFFORDABILITY
EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP
Any Other Interesting Info:
Park has been campaigning with anti-LGBTQ political candidates this election season, including multiple partnership moments with Kelly Felton and Ziggy McBride, candidates for Tustin USD. source
John Park has run multiple times for Irvine City Council - in 2022, 2024, and 2026. source
His candidate statement for the 2024 City Council election can be found here.
Social Media Links:
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
Amy Connelly, anti-LGBTQ activist active in Tustin USD
Kelly Felton, anti-LGBTQ activist running for TUSD board
Kathleen Treseder, Irvine Councilmember
Kate Sanchez, CA State Assemblywoman who has brought forward multiple bills that seek to dismantle civil rights protections for trans people
Kate Sanchez, personal account
Kate Sanchez, campaign account
Gracey Van Der Mark, Huntington Beach City Councilwoman famous for her efforts to ban books for the Huntington Beach public library, anti-LGBTQ, pro-ICE
Cottie Petrie-Norris, CA State Assemblywoman with a consistently high score from Planned Parenthood and Equality CA on her legislative voting record
Don Wagner, OC Supervisor who voted to ban the Pride flag and current candidate for CA Secretary of State
Will O’Neill, OC GOP Chair
Riverside Sheriff Chad Bianco, fmr. Candidate for CA governor, aggressively anti-LGBTQ, has blocked Pride at the Pier on instagram (lol okay Chad)
Lincoln Institute CA, Gen Z-targeted far right political org; their pinned posts include a video with Anthony Cabassa, who calls for Franco-style fascism in America
Lincoln Club OC far right political org in OC, explicitly anti-LGBTQ
Leandra Blades, PYLUSD Trustee who participated in the targeting of a specific trans child playing sports in SoCal, former police officer who killed an unarmed man while on duty
Candidate’s Public Comments:
The OC Register asked Park, “The public expects transparency from public leaders in spending and governance. How can this be achieved? How can the city do better in this area?” He responded, “Transparency starts with making city finances genuinely accessible, not just technically available. Budget documents and spending reports should be presented in a way residents can actually understand, with clear public reporting tied to specific, measurable outcomes rather than dense line items that only insiders can interpret.
As a Finance Commissioner, I believe the city should proactively publish spending data and project updates rather than waiting for residents to request them, and public meetings should make room for real dialogue, not just formal presentations. Decisions on major expenditures, contracts, and development agreements should be explained clearly to the public before votes are taken, not after concerns are already raised.
Transparency also means accountability when things go wrong. Residents deserve honest updates when projects run over budget or timelines slip, not silence until the numbers are unavoidable. Good government does not fear scrutiny. It invites it. I am committed to making sure Irvine’s residents always know how their tax dollars are being spent and why, because trust in local government is earned through consistent openness, not defended after the fact.” source
On June 15, Park posted on his instagram, “Last night, these Irvine City Council members voted to advance Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) to this November’s ballot.
Melinda Liu (District 1 - Our District)
William Go (District 2)
Betty Martinez-Franco (District 5)
Kathleen Treseder (District 6)
RCV will cost $725,000 or more. That estimate comes from pro-RCV groups themselves. Add realistic voter education and staff costs and this poorly timed solution to a non-existent problem will likely cost taxpayers millions.
19 states have already banned it. Yet here we are.
They advanced this costly initiative despite Irvine facing a significant budget deficit that could grow to nearly $50 million in just a few short years.
This is exactly what Back to Basics is about. Our city has real problems that need real solutions. RCV is not one of them. It is a pet project driven by partisan politics and special interests with no regard for the taxpayers footing the bill.
Back to basics means spending your tax dollars on what actually matters to District 1 families.” source
DISCLAIMER: Pride at the Pier is endorsing a YES vote on Irvine’s Measure D for Ranked Choice Voting, as it would improve more direct representation and voter empowerment for Irvine. Ranked Choice Voting is not a partisan issue.
Endorsed by:
James Mai, Irvine Vice Mayor
Mike Carroll, Irvine Council Member
Steven Choi, CA State Senator
Don Wagner, Orange County Supervisor (voted to ban the Pride flag in 2023)
Stefan Bean, OC Superintendent of Schools (openly anti-LGBTQ)
Mari Barke, OC Board of Education Trustee, D2 (director at the California Policy Center, a conservative thinktank and anti-LGBTQ organization associated with the Heritage Foundation)
Ken Williams, OC Board of Education Trustee, D3 (anti-LGBTQ voting record)
Kathy Copeland, TUSD Trustee, Area 2 (California Policy Center endorsed candidate)
Republican Party of Orange County
Lincoln Club of Orange County
Candidate in the News:
(OC Register 2022) John Park, Irvine City Council candidate, Election 2022 questionnaire
(OC Register 2024) John Park, Irvine City Council District 1 candidate, 2024 election questionnaire
(OC Register 2026) John Park, Irvine City Council District 1 candidate, 2026 election questionnaire
Public Voting Record:
None Found
$11,296.15 from the 1962 PAC of the Lincoln Club of Orange County
$7,750.00 from the 1962 PAC of the Lincoln Club of Orange County
$1,323.00 from the 1962 PAC of the Lincoln Club of Orange County
$2,892.50 from the 1962 PAC of the Lincoln Club of Orange County
$650 from James Mai, Irvine Vice Mayor
$500 from Shawn Steel, husband of fmr. MAGA Congresswoman Michelle Steel and Republican National Committeeman for Orange County
$650 from Wayne Lindholm, president of the Lincoln Club OC
$200 from Pano Frousiakis, Huntington Beach resident, fmr. Candidate for Municipal Water District of Orange County and friend of Gracey Van Der Mark
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Irvine City Council, District 5 (Candidate)
“STEVEN ALVES | Small Businessowner/Dad
With traffic getting worse, roads in need of repair, and a growing budget deficit, we need to bring the focus back to what really matters to the residents of District 5.
As your councilmember, I will bring disciplined, fiscally responsible leadership, professionalism, and bridge-building skills honed over years of doing business around the world. My priorities: balancing the budget without cutting essential services; protecting public safety; maintaining infrastructure; and keeping the University Park Library open.
I have called Woodbridge home for 31 years, raising two children, and volunteering for over 14 years in local Scouting. My wife and I built our life together in this community, and we will celebrate our 30th anniversary in November.
I served as Chief of Staff to our Vice Mayor, working on Irvine's major issues, including the budget deficit. I built strong relationships with city staff and department directors, engaged with residents, and supported local businesses.
I have successfully run my own international business since 2005, and I serve on the Irvine Community Alliance Fund board.
District 5 deserves a representative with deep community roots, real experience, and the judgment to protect what makes Irvine work. I am ready to serve on day one.
Email: info@stevenalves4irvine.com
Campaign Website: https://stevenalves4irvine.com/
Priorities:
Public Safety First
Fiscal Restraint
Focus on Local Issues
Keep University Park Library Open
Open Space
Greenbelts and trails
Parks that hold up
Any Other Interesting Info:
Steven attended the University of California, Davis from 1984 – 1988. Obtained a BA, International Relations. Focus: International Economics & Third World Development. (source)
Steven served as key advisor and chief strategist to Vice Mayor James Mai from December 2024 to July 2026. (source)
Steven is a Board Member of the Irvine Community Alliance Fund (ICAF). ICAF was created to link individuals, organizations and businesses desiring to enhance City of Irvine Community & Library Services Department programs and services. Interested parties can identify a program or service need, then “affiliate” with the ICAF to facilitate fundraising efforts that they design and implement. Donated funds will then be allocated to the City program or service for which they were raised. (source)
On April 9, 2025, Steven participated in a speaker series titled Global Trade Experts to Share Insights into the Impact of Tariffs on Business. (source)
Social Media Links:
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
Ziggy MvBride for School Board (Parent’s Rights and “Boys out of Girls sports” candidate)
Candidate’s Public Comments:
In the OC Register 2026 Candidate Questionnaire, when asked how Irvine can best meet the demand and mandates for more housing, including at lower price points, while also preserving local control and the quality of life for existing neighborhoods and residents: “I would focus on three things. First, holding firm on compliance with the state so Irvine avoids losing local control under the state’s “builder’s remedy.” Second, ensuring infrastructure, roads, schools, and parks keep pace with new development, rather than approving density without the capacity to support it. Third, making sure new housing, especially at lower price points, comes with real community benefits and isn’t concentrated disproportionately in a handful of areas while others go untouched. State mandates aren’t going away, but how the city implements them is still within our control. I’ll fight to keep that implementation smart, transparent, and fair to every neighborhood.” (source)
In the OC Register 2026 Candidate Questionnaire, when asked what would make him a good leader and how he would represent the diverse communities of Irvine: “Good leadership starts with listening, not assuming you already have all the answers. My career building international partnerships across the globe taught me how to find common ground with people from vastly different backgrounds and turn that into results, a skill that applies directly to representing a city as diverse as Irvine.” (source)
IG photo: Steven Alves with Jenny Rae Le Roux and Ron Scolesdang
IG post caption: Happy to team up with our local candidates and constituents to support Jenny Rae Le Roux as she makes her way to the 47th Congressional District seat 🇺🇸 ••• Will you take part in positive change in our world? 🌎
Jenny’s website states she is the Executive Director of CAL DOGE.
Endorsed by:
Elected Officials
James Mai, Irvine Vice Mayor
Irvine Vice Mayor
Steven Choi, California State Senator
Mike Carroll, Irvine City Councilmember
Phillip Chen, CA Assembly Member
Diane Dixon, CA Assembly Member
Don Wagner, Orange County Supervisor
Scott Voigts, Lake Forest City Councilmember
Joshua Sweeney, Laguna Hills City Councilmember
Ray Gennawey, Laguna Niguel City Councilmember
Shivinder Singh, Yorba Linda City Councilmember
Community & Civic Leaders
Jenny Rae Le Roux, California Business Owner, US Congressional Candidate for CA 47
Ron Scolesdang, Irvine Commissioner and Business Owner, IUSD School Board Candidate
Saga Conroy, Mission Viejo City Council Candidate
Organizations
Republican Party of Orange County
Lincoln Club of Orange County
Greater Irvine Republicans
Republican Asian American Caucus
The Israeli-American Civic Action Network
Recommended by
Jewish Community Action Network
Candidate in the News:
OC Register Candidate Questionnaire. October 5, 2026.
Israeli-American Civic Action Network Endorses Steven Alves for Irvine City Council District 5. October 7, 2026.
Irvine Watchdog: Questions Raised After Mai’s Office Contracts With Firm Led By Ally. June 11, 2026.
Irvine Watchdog: 2026 Irvine City Council Candidates And Election Preview (May Update). June 2, 2026.
Irvine Conversations: A Conversation with District 5 Candidate Steven Alves. Undated.
Public Voting Record:
Candidate has no previous record of holding public office
PAC of the Lincoln Club of OC donated various amounts to his campaign
South Orange County Republicans donated $250
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Irvine, City Council District 5 (Incumbent)
“BETTY MARTINEZ FRANCO | Councilmember/Businessowner
When I took the oath to serve on the Irvine City Council, I promised to put Irvine first and deliver results. I have kept that promise by strengthening public safety through my service on the Orange County Fire Authority Board, expanding support for seniors and working families, protecting our beloved University Park Library, hosting Irvine's first Women's Conference, and launching our city's bike share pilot.
More than 30 years ago, I came to America picking apples and cleaning hotel rooms. After surviving domestic violence, Human Options helped my two daughters and me find safe, affordable housing in Irvine. I worked hard, earned a Master of Public Administration from USC, built a successful small business, and never forgot the opportunities this community gave my family.
I am running for reelection to keep our neighborhoods safe, our city financially strong, and our local businesses thriving. I want to make Irvine more affordable and ensure seniors, working families, and financially vulnerable residents are not left behind.
Irvine gave my family a new beginning. I will keep working every day to protect the opportunities that make our city one of America's best places to live. I respectfully ask for your vote.
Learn more at bettyforirvine.com.”
Email: bettyfrancoforirvined5@gmail.com
Campaign Website: https://www.bettyforirvine.com/
Priorities:
Housing Affordability
Library Master Plan
Traffic Congestion
E-bikes
Public Safety
Any Other Interesting Info:
Betty was attacked by Nick Taurus and his crew of white nationalists locally after wearing a “Chinga La Migra” shirt on the dais in summer of 2025. Pride at the Pier team members were at that meeting documenting Taurus as Betty had racist, anti-immigrant language yelled at her from the podium for her opposition of ICE.
Betty was an attendee of the Irvine Pride event held at Irvine City Hall in 2026. Pride at the Pier team members spoke to her at the time, as she had a table there and was speaking to constituents and supporting the LGBTQ+ community.
Betty has been an Irvine City Council Member since April 2025 and a proud resident of Irvine in District 5 for over 21 years. (source)
Betty is the founder and CEO of Prisma Communications, a multicultural public relations firm specializing in culturally competent communications and civic engagement campaigns. (source)
Betty was attacked during a city council meeting by a group of OC White Nationalists on August 12, 2025, for her choice to wear a “Chinga La Migra” shirt at the previous city council meeting. Kanan has footage of this. (Reddit links here and video footage here).
Social Media Links:
Campaign: Betty Martinez for Irvine Instagram
Professional: Councilmember Betty Martinez Instagram
Personal: Betty Martinez PR Instagram
Professional: Prisma Communications Instagram
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
Pride at the Pier
Mission Viejo Pride
Orange County LGBTQIA Pride
LGBTQ Center OC
BIPOC Equity
Orange County Rapid Response Network
OC Justice Fund
CHIRLA
LA Taco
50501 Orange County
OC Indivisible
CA Working Families Party
Unionized Mother’s Market
National Immigration Law Center
Immigration Defenders Law Center
Iranian Democrats of California
RISE Irvine
Sunrise Movement OC
South OC Young Dems
Planned Parenthood Los Angeles
Jewish Community Action Network OC
First Lady Melania Trump
Irvine Police Department
Candidate’s Public Comments:
City Council Memorandum Statement: Consideration of City Participation in Federal Civil Rights Litigation Challenging Racial Profiling and Warrantless Enforcement Actions During ICE Operations; August 5, 2025: “In response to these concerning practices, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and other immigrant rights organizations have filed a lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security, including ICE, alleging systemic, unconstitutional, warrantless arrests (…) As the thirteenth largest city in California by population and one of the most diverse in the region, Irvine has a responsibility to lead by example and demonstrate that we protect and respect the rights of all who call our city home. Supporting this legal challenge aligns with our city’s values and reinforces our commitment to community safety, legal integrity, and human dignity.” (source)
In the OC Register 2026 Candidate Questionnaire, when asked how Irvine can best meet the demand and mandates for more housing, including at lower price points, while also preserving local control and the quality of life for existing neighborhoods and residents: “(...)I want us to be creative about affordability by working with responsible developers, using available public land wisely, pursuing state and federal funding, and creating more homeownership opportunities. It is our obligation as city leaders to request developers to build more housing at different price points. Teachers, firefighters, nurses, young professionals, seniors, and students are all feeling the pressure of rising housing costs, and too many are being priced out of the community they serve or call home.” Published October 5, 2026 (source)
In the OC Register 2026 Candidate Questionnaire, when asked what is the biggest need Irvine faces: “The biggest challenge facing Irvine is the rising cost of living, especially housing affordability. Irvine is often viewed as a wealthy city, but that perception can hide the very real struggles many of our residents are facing.” Published October 5, 2026 (source)
Dated June 1, 2026: “June 1 marks the beginning of Pride Month, and I’m thinking back to the warmth, joy and community we shared at Pride in Irvine! 🏳️🌈✨This evening was such a special reminder of how important it is to create spaces where people feel welcomed, celebrated and free to be themselves. Happy Pride Month to everyone in our LGBTQIA+ community and to all who continue helping make Irvine a place of belonging.” (source)
Endorsed by:
Elected Officials and Appointees
Congressman Lou Correa
Congressman Dave Min
Senator Tom Umberg
Assemblyman Avelino Valencia
OC Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento
Irvine City Councilmember Kathleen Treseder
Garden Grove Councilmember Ariana Arestegui
Dr. Jeff Kim, President of the IUSD Board of Education
Sustainability Commissioner Kev Abazajian, City of Irvine
Community Leaders
Ford Fujii, Japanese American Museum Board of Trustees- Irvine D5 Resident
Organizations
Democratic Party of Orange County (DPOC)
Democrats of Greater Irvine (DGI)
Orange County Professional Firefighters Association (OCPFA) IAFF, Local 3631
Orange County Employees Association (OCEA)
Irvine Professional Employees Association
Iranian American Democrats of California (IADC)
LA/OC Building & Construction Trades
California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce (CHCC)
Teamsters Joint Council 42
IBEW Local 47
IBEW Local 441
IUOE 12
United Association Local 250
Ironworkers Local 416
Ironworkers Local 433
Painters & Allied Trades DC 36
LiUNA! Local 652
SMART Local 105
Western States Regional Council of Carpenters
National Union of Healthcare Workers
UNITE Here! Local 11
California Working Families Party
California Women's List
Fund Her
Orange County Young Democrats (OCYD)
Sierra Club, Los Angeles Chapter
UAW Region 6 CAP/PAC
Women in Leadership (WIL)
Candidate in the News:
Unite Here: Former Disneyland Housekeeper Elected to Irvine City Council
USC Price: MPA alum Betty Martinez Franco’s journey from Mexican immigrant to Irvine City Council
Voice of OC: Irvine Looks to Support Lawsuit Challenging ICE Sweeps; OC Supervisors Take No Action
Public Voting Record:
Follow the Money: via the link
Donations listed $500 and above, as filed 09/19/26
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Irvine City Council, District 5 (Candidate)
“JULIE GLOSSBRENNER | Housing Specialist
Decisions made by the Irvine City Council affect our quality of life today and our city's future. Residents deserve a councilmember with the integrity to do what is right, the compassion to understand people, and the sound judgment to make thoughtful, independent decisions.
My professional experience, combined with my education at the University of California, Irvine, has prepared me for this responsibility. I have extensive experience evaluating proposals, negotiating contracts, and solving complex problems. These are the same skills needed to review budgets, development agreements, public contracts, and the many other important issues before the City Council. Careful analysis, thoughtful questions, and informed decisions lead to better outcomes.
Volunteering with Irvine Meals on Wheels, Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County, and serving on the Board of Directors for UCI Health Family Health Centers has strengthened my
understanding of our community and reinforced my commitment of service.
I am dedicated to protecting public safety, preserving open space, supporting responsible growth, and safeguarding Irvine's exceptional quality of life.
I would be honored to earn your vote and serve the residents of District 5.
Julie Glossbrenner
Email: JulieForIrvine@gmail.com
Campaign Website: https://www.julieforirvine.com/
Priorities:
Balancing Progress and Preservation
I want Irvine to continue protecting its beautiful parks, open spaces, and natural environment while supporting responsible growth, expanding housing opportunities for people at different stages of life, and fostering a strong local economy that attracts innovative businesses and entrepreneurs.
Community Connection
I also envision vibrant neighborhood centers throughout the city that offer residents diverse dining, shopping, services, and community gathering spaces close to their homes. Combined with continued investment in both new and established neighborhoods, this will help strengthen our sense of community while supporting economic growth and generating additional revenue for essential city services.
Community Well-being & Public Safety
Most importantly, I want Irvine to remain a city where residents trust their local government, feel their voices are heard, and know their elected officials are making decisions that will benefit both current residents and those that come after us.
Any Other Interesting Info:
Julie is a “Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist” and realtor for Realty ONE Group West in Irvine. https://west.myrealtyonegroup.com/real-estate-agent/6947/julie-glossbrenner
Social Media Links:
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
Instagram:
Greater Irvine Chamber @irvinechamberThe Truth OC @the.truth.oc
Candidate’s Public Comments:
10/3/26 Instagram post: Think about this: (Image)
Think about this:
If you do not vote for me on November 3rd, Irvine and District 5 are probably going to be left with Betty Martinez-Franco for another four years.
Let that sink in...
Caption: Voters deserve a better choice, not an automatic, top-down endorsement handed out by a political machine.
Local government is not about political parties. It is about balancing our city's structural budget deficit, resolving traffic issues, and protecting our neighborhood's master plan. I am running a resident-based campaign, free from corporate ties and political party agendas.
I will only answer to you, the residents of📍Irvine.
🗳 Lets unite our votes on November 3rd to bring real fiscal discipline, integrity, and honesty back to City Hall.
🌐 Visit my website to get involved, make a donation or sign up to volunteer:
#JulieForIrvine #JulieGlossbrenner #Irvine #IrvineCA #IrvineCityCouncil
10/11/26 Instagram post: A Family Legacy of Service (Image)
Photo of Julie Glossbrenner with a list of the ways her family members have served this country and linking it to her “service” as National Housing Director for U.S.VETS.
Caption: 🇺🇸 A FAMILY LEGACY OF SERVICE
For generations, my family has answered the call to serve our country. That legacy taught me the importance of duty, responsibility, and putting service above self.
⚓ From my father and uncle serving in the U.S. Navy, to my grandfathers serving in the ⭐️ U.S. Army, military service has been woven into my family’s history for generations.
🏠 As National Housing Director for U.S.VETS, I carried that commitment forward by managing nationwide operations to help ensure our nation’s veterans had a safe place to call home.
Now, I am stepping up to serve the community I have called home for more than thirty years.
I am running for Irvine City Council District 5 because I believe our residents deserve transparent, accountable, and resident-focused leadership.
Service is part of my family’s legacy. Serving Irvine is my next chapter. 💙
💬 What matters most to you about Irvine’s future?
🇺🇸 Learn more: JulieForIrvine.com
PREPARED • ACCOUNTABLE • ADVOCATE
Julie Glossbrenner
Irvine City Council District 5 Candidate
#JulieForIrvine #IrvineDistrict5 #IrvineCA #IrvineCommunity #IrvineD5
Julie Glossbrenner, Irvine City Council District 5 candidate, 2026 election questionnaire
Ahead of the November general election, the Southern California News Group compiled a list of questions to pose to the candidates who wish to represent you. You can find the full questionnaire below.
Name: Julie Glossbrenner
Age: 61
Current job title: Housing Specialist
Incumbent: No
Other political positions held: N/A
City where you reside: Irvine
Campaign website or social media: JulieForIrvine.com
Q: How can the city best meet the demand and mandates for more housing, including at lower price points, while also preserving local control and the quality of life for existing neighborhoods and residents? (Please limit your answer to 200 words or less.)
A: Irvine can meet its housing obligations, while preserving the quality of life that makes Irvine special, by planning thoughtfully about where and how new housing is built. The emphasis needs to be on areas that can support additional density without placing unnecessary pressure on established neighborhoods.
Irvine also needs housing that serves people at different stages of life — from young adults and families to working residents and seniors. This means providing a range of housing types and sizes while maintaining high standards for design, infrastructure, traffic, public safety, parks, and community services.
State housing mandates are real, but local planning matters. Irvine should use every tool available to meet its obligations while preserving local control over how housing is planned and integrated into Irvine’s villages.
We do not have to choose between meeting our housing needs and preserving quality of life. With thoughtful planning, responsible development, and the right infrastructure, we can accommodate growth while preserving what makes Irvine such a great place to live.
Q: How should the city balance rising costs, paying off debts, such as pension liabilities, and building reserves, all while meeting residents’ needs? Should a solution involve finding new revenue, economic development, trimming the budget, or something else entirely? (Please limit your answer to 200 words or less.)
A: We have a responsibility to be good stewards of residents’ tax dollars and to plan for both today’s needs and tomorrow’s obligations. This means responsibly managing debt and pension obligations, maintaining healthy reserves, and ensuring that essential services remain strong.
The City should first identify inefficiencies, look for opportunities to use existing resources more effectively, and regularly evaluate spending to ensure it is producing the intended results. We should also pursue economic development that strengthens our existing commercial areas, including attracting vibrant shops, restaurants, and businesses to serve our residents, which will in turn broaden the City’s revenue base.
At the same time, fiscal responsibility does not mean simply cutting services. Irvine residents expect quality public safety, efficient infrastructure, welcoming parks, accessible transportation, and other top-rated essential services.
The goal should be a balanced approach: responsible budgeting, careful spending, economic development, and planning for future obligations and expenses rather than addressing them only when they arise. Every major expenditure should have a clear purpose, a sustainable funding plan, and accountability to the residents who are paying for it.
Q: The public expects transparency from public leaders in spending and governance. How can this be achieved? How can the city do better in this area? (Please limit your answer to 200 words or less.)
A: Transparency means more than putting information on a website. Residents should understand how and why decisions are made, how tax dollars are spent, and how their input became part of the decision-making process.
When residents take the time to come before the City Council, their comments should be heard and considered while a decision is still being made. I would like to see public comment followed by a brief opportunity for Councilmembers to identify whether residents raised questions or concerns that may have changed their opinions or warrant further consideration before Council proceeds with its final vote.
This does not mean Councilmembers have to agree with every speaker. It means residents should know that what they say has an opportunity to influence the final decision.
The City of Irvine should make budgets, contracts, major projects, financial commitments, and other public information easily available and understandable through plain-language summaries. The City can improve its data system with resident-centered categories, visual progress trackers, and clear cost information so residents can quickly see what the City is spending, accomplishing, and whether projects are on time and on budget. This would make City operations more transparent and accessible to Irvine residents.
Good government requires honest leadership, two-way communication, and leading with integrity. True public service means residents can look at their community and see their Councilmember heard their concerns and did the work to get the job done.
Q: In your opinion, what is the biggest need your city faces, and how would you address it? (Please limit your answer to 200 words or less.)
A: I believe Irvine’s biggest need is to thoughtfully manage growth while preserving the quality of life that has made Irvine such a desirable place to live.
Our city is growing, and that growth affects everything from traffic and infrastructure to public safety, parks, open space, housing, and city services. We need to look at these issues as a whole rather than making decisions one project at a time.
As a city councilmember, I will focus on responsible planning, efficient infrastructure, protecting open space, providing housing for different stages of life, and making sure our public services remain outstanding. New development should come with the infrastructure and services necessary to support it and allow the community to thrive.
Irvine has been successful because of thoughtful planning. We should continue this tradition rather than sacrificing long-term quality of life for short-term growth.
The question should not simply be how much Irvine can build, but how we can responsibly plan for the future while protecting the qualities residents value most about our city.
Q: Why would you make a good leader, and how would you represent the diverse communities of your city? (Please limit your answer to 200 words or less.)
A: A good leader listens, asks questions, seeks the facts, and is willing to make difficult decisions when necessary. Public service requires integrity, accountability, preparation, and a commitment to putting the community first.
Irvine is a diverse community, with residents from many backgrounds, generations, cultures, and life experiences. Representing Irvine means listening to all of them — including people who may disagree with me — and making sure residents feel heard and respected.
I believe leadership is about bringing people together, finding common ground when possible, and making informed decisions when difficult choices need to be made. I will remain accessible to all residents and take responsibility for the informed decisions I make.
Being a good leader means remembering who you are there to serve. I will represent every part of Irvine and every resident, regardless of background, viewpoint, age or perspective. I will listen, ask questions, consider different positions, and remain focused on results. True leadership is about unifying a community, ensuring every resident has a voice, and creating an environment where everyone feels connected to Irvine and its future.
The Orange County Register sent questionnaires, based on current events and questions from readers, to candidates on the ballot in Orange County via email, phone and/or mail ahead of Election Day. Answers have been lightly edited only to correct spelling or grammar or to remove offensive language and hate speech.
Endorsed by:
Julie has no endorsement page on her campaign website as of October 7, 2026.
Candidate in the News:
Julie Glossbrenner, Irvine City Council District 5 candidate, 2026 election questionnairePublic Voting Record:
This candidate has no prior record of holding public office.
Follow the Money: via the link
None found as of October 7, 2026
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Irvine City Council, District 5 (Candidate)
“ANTHONY KUO | AGE: 43 | City of Irvine Commissioner
I grew up in Irvine, attended our public schools, and have spent my life serving the city that gave me so much.
I served eight years as an Irvine Commissioner and four years as your City Councilmember, working to keep Irvine America’s Safest City for our size, protect our quality of life, promote transparency and accountability, and safeguard taxpayer dollars.
In my final year on the City Council, Irvine projected a budget surplus nearing $30,000,000, and I led the effort to return nearly $5,000,000 to taxpayers.
I will restore fiscal discipline at City Hall and build on my record of strengthening public safety; fighting for greater affordability while protecting our quality of life; and ensuring residents have a
meaningful voice in decisions about our neighborhoods.
Public service isn’t about titles. It’s about listening, doing the homework, asking tough questions, working collaboratively, making tough decisions, and delivering results.
You’ve trusted me to serve. I’ve always put Irvine first. I’ve done it before, and I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and do it again.
I respectfully ask for your vote so together we can protect what makes Irvine special and build a stronger, healthier future for our city.
Anthony Kuo
Email: Anthony@anthonykuo.org
Campaign Website: https://www.anthonykuo.org/
Priorities:
Protecting Taxpayers
Keeping Irvine Safe
Supporting Schools and Families
Affordability and Quality of Life
Regional and Community Advocacy
Any Other Interesting Info:
For over twenty years, his family owned and operated Chinatown Restaurant, a small business right across the street from UC Irvine.
His website states he is the first elected representative in Irvine to have grown up in Irvine and graduated from Irvine's public schools.
Campaign website lists the many roles Anthony has filled while serving his community:
City and Regional Leadership
Irvine City Councilmember, 2018-2022
Vice Mayor of Irvine
Irvine Commissioner
Vice Chairman, Orange County Fire Authority
President, Irvine Community Land Trust
Board Member, Orange County Sanitation District
Orange County Emergency Medical Services Committee
Vice Chair, Great Park Board
San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary Board
Service to Schools, Children and Families
Irvine Unified School District Liaison Committee
Tustin Unified School District Liaison Committee
Irvine Children's Fund Board of Directors
Irvine Junior Games Steering Committee
Irvine Valley College Foundation Board of Governors
IUSD Teacher of the Year Planning Committee
IUSD Scholar Athletes Dinner Planning Committee
Task Force on Housing Needs for the Developmentally Disabled
Ad Hoc Committee on Veterans Affordable Housing
Community and Non-Profits
President, Exchange Club of Irvine
Advisory Board, Crime Survivors, Inc.
Irvine Thanksgiving Community Prayer Breakfast Chair
Board of Directors, Irvine Barclay Theatre
BYU Management Society of Orange County
Irvine Community Police Academy Graduate
Treasurer, Irvine 2/11 Marine Adoption Committee
Social Media Links:
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
Instagram:
President Donald Trump @realdonaldtrumpTeam Trump @teamtrump
Melania Trump @melaniatrump
President Donald J. Trump @potusDr. Jordan B. Peterson @jordan.b.peterson
TPUSA Woodbridge @tpusawoodbridge
TPUSA Chapter at UHS @tpusa_uniMichelle Steel @michellesteelca
Orange County Labor Federation @orangecountylaborfederation
OCEA @oceastrong
Sukhee Kang for Irvine City Council @sukhee4irvine
Irvine Watchdog @irvine_watchdogFarrah N Khan @farrahforoc
Valerie Amezcua @mayorvalamezcuasantaana
Sheriff’s Advisory Council @stephaniek4gg
Assemblymember Diane Dixon @diane_dixon_asm
Greater Irvine Republicans @greaterirvinerepublicansCandidate’s Public Comments:
Anthony Kuo, Irvine City Council District 5 candidate, 2026 election questionnaire
Q: How can the city best meet the demand and mandates for more housing, including at lower price points, while also preserving local control and the quality of life for existing neighborhoods and residents? (Please limit your answer to 200 words or less.)
A: Irvine can meet its housing obligations without abandoning thoughtful planning or sacrificing the quality of life with which Irvine has become synonymous.
Having served eight years on Irvine’s Planning Commission, including during periods when we consistently demanded traffic, school and park mitigation measures needed to address the impacts of growth, I understand that where and how we build matter as much as how much we build.
The City should prioritize housing where infrastructure, transportation, schools and public services can reasonably support additional density, while protecting established neighborhoods from incompatible development. We should continue working with developers to provide housing at a range of price points and explore incentives that make affordable and workforce housing economically feasible without simply shifting costs to existing residents.
At the same time, Sacramento continues its attempts to take away local control and local land-use authority. State housing mandates may establish what Irvine is required to accommodate, but Irvine should aggressively preserve the discretion we retain over how that growth occurs.
Good planning means accommodating our future residents without diminishing the quality of life of those who already call Irvine home.
Q: How should the city balance rising costs, paying off debts, such as pension liabilities, and building reserves, all while meeting residents’ needs? Should a solution involve finding new revenue, economic development, trimming the budget, or something else entirely? (Please limit your answer to 200 words or less.)
A: Irvine cannot tax or spend its way out of poor fiscal management. We need a balanced approach that prioritizes essential services, controls spending, responsibly addresses long-term liabilities and promotes a healthy local economy, strengthening our tax base.
When I left the City Council, Irvine was projecting a nearly $30 million surplus. I led the effort to return nearly $5 million to taxpayers while maintaining healthy reserves and funding the services residents expect. Today, the City is projecting a multi-million-dollar deficit while carrying approximately $169 million in unfunded pension liabilities. That trajectory should make anyone think twice about what we do next.
We can’t simply look for new revenue from residents or businesses; they’re not at fault. City Hall must examine its spending, particularly on new programs, distinguish needs from wants, identify efficiencies and ensure existing taxpayer dollars are used effectively. At the same time, we should work with our business community to aggressively court employers and high-paying jobs that expand our economic base without increasing tax rates.
Irvine has historically maintained strong reserves and responsibly addressed long-term liabilities. That shouldn’t change. Fiscal discipline isn’t about cutting services residents value; it’s about ensuring we can afford them for generations to come.
Q: The public expects transparency from public leaders in spending and governance. How can this be achieved? How can the city do better in this area? (Please limit your answer to 200 words or less.)
A: Transparency means more than posting agendas and financial documents online. Residents should be able to access the information they need to understand what’s happening at City Hall, how taxpayer dollars are being spent, and why their elected representatives make the decisions they make.
Transparency must start at the top with the City Council itself. Irvine has a part-time City Council, yet individual Council offices receive approximately $300,000 operating budgets, including six-figure staff positions. When employee benefits and other costs budgeted elsewhere are included, the total taxpayer cost of operating a Council office representing one-sixth of the city can approach $600,000. At a time when the City is projecting a multi-million-dollar deficit, residents deserve to know what each Council office actually costs and what taxpayers receive in return.
City Hall should present budgets, contracts and major expenditures in ways residents can easily understand, provide adequate time for public review and input, and require leaders to explain significant spending decisions.
During my previous Council service, I routinely met with constituents and brought City Hall into the community through informal events. Transparency requires both information and accessibility.
People may not always agree with their elected officials, but they should always know where we stand, why we made a decision, and how their money is being spent.
Q: In your opinion, what is the biggest need your city faces, and how would you address it? (Please limit your answer to 200 words or less.)
A: Irvine’s greatest need is a renewed focus on public safety. For decades, Irvine took tremendous pride in being recognized as one of America’s safest cities. That distinction wasn’t just a slogan; it became foundational to our quality of life, strong property values, successful schools and businesses, and Irvine’s reputation as an exceptional place to raise a family.
Today, we rarely hear elected leaders at City Hall talk about public safety or celebrate the remarkable partnership local law enforcement has with our community. I want to change that.
Irvine must ensure our Police Department has the staffing, resources and support necessary to keep pace with a growing city. We should prioritize recruiting and retaining outstanding officers, maintain strong response capabilities, invest appropriately in technology and equipment, and ensure our officers know their elected leaders support them and respect their professionalism in doing their jobs.
Public safety also requires accountability. City leaders should regularly examine crime trends, staffing levels and response times and communicate those results openly with residents.
Irvine remains an extraordinarily safe community. My goal isn’t to suggest otherwise. It is to make sure we never become complacent about one of the most important reasons Irvine is the community it is today.
Q: Why would you make a good leader, and how would you represent the diverse communities of your city? (Please limit your answer to 200 words or less.)
A: I often take pride in saying that I’m from Irvine and FOR Irvine. I was raised here, became the first person raised in Irvine to serve on the City Council, and have lived in District 5 for nearly 30 years. Irvine shaped who I am, and serving this community alongside so many dedicated residents has been one of the great privileges of my life.
Irvine voters have trusted me before. They know my record, how I approach difficult decisions, and that I’m willing to listen, do my homework and explain where I stand. I’m proud of that record, grateful for that trust, and ready to serve again.
Being “for Irvine” means representing all of Irvine. Our diversity includes different cultures, generations, neighborhoods, experiences and political viewpoints. Good leaders don’t listen only to those who agree with them. During my previous service, I made myself accessible, sought out different perspectives and brought City Hall directly into our neighborhoods.
I won’t always agree with every resident, and every resident won’t always agree with me. But everyone deserves to be heard, respected and represented.I’m from Irvine, I’m for Irvine, and I’m ready to get back to work.
The Orange County Register sent questionnaires, based on current events and questions from readers, to candidates on the ballot in Orange County via email, phone and/or mail ahead of Election Day. Answers have been lightly edited only to correct spelling or grammar or to remove offensive language and hate speech.
Endorsed by:
No endorsements listed on Anthony’s campaign website as of October 7, 2026
Candidate in the News:
Is an Irvine City Council Candidate a Businessman or Government Employee? Mar 13, 2025
“Former Irvine City Councilman Anthony Kuo is looking to rejoin the dais in a special election for the last open seat on city council, advertising himself as a businessman on the ballot.
But none of his campaign materials reference his day job: a manager in the Orange County Auditor-Controller’s office, where he works at least 40 hours a week according to his time cards reviewed by Voice of OC.
When asked about the issue, Kuo said he just never stops working.”
Irvine’s Kuo Jumps in the Race for State Senate July 14, 2023
Irvine Approves Flying of LGBTQ+ Flag A Year After Denying Request June 24, 2020
Kuo voted against flying the Pride flag at city council in 2019 but then flipped and was part of the majority who voted to fly in 2020.
“Council members Anthony Kuo and Mike Carroll also voiced support, with Carroll mentioning other cities that had approved similar resolutions in previous years and Irvine’s opposition having left it as an “outlier.”
Irvine City Council Repeals Anti-LGBTQ+ City Code Amid Concerns From Legal Counsel published Jul 15, 2020, updated December 8, 2020
Opinion - Hansen: Strengthen Irvine’s Business-Friendly Culture: Restore LGBTQ Protection to the City Code (Voice of OC) June 5, 2020
The City co-sponsored an LGBTQ Community Picnic in 2019, co-hosted by Councilmember Farrah Khan. Mayor Christina Shea and Councilmembers Melissa Fox, Anthony Kuo, and Mike Carroll all attended.
Although a Council majority decided not to fly the Pride Flag at City Hall in 2019, to some extent the City is reaching out to the LGBTQ community.
Public Voting Record:
Voting Record2025 Special Election: Anthony Kuo, Irvine City Council District 5 candidate, 2025 special election questionnaire
Q: In your opinion, what are the biggest issues facing Irvine? And, what do you plan to do about them?
A: One of the major driving forces of Irvine’s success and vibrancy as a community is our Master Plan. The idea that neighborhoods can have access to their own schools, recreation, shopping and trails that connect them all is unique and adds to the charm and sense of community in each of our villages. Protecting the Master Plan, especially our open spaces, must be a key priority of the City Council that is balanced against the health of Irvine’s local economy and often overreaching mandates of the state. And, to further enhance neighborhood aesthetics and bolster our commitment to the environment, I support the mayor’s efforts to develop an urban forestation plan and to plant more trees throughout Irvine.
Whether local, state or federal, government’s first responsibility is to keep our residents safe. I’m proud to have partnered with local law enforcement to develop and implement new ideas and seek out resources to curb the rise of crime, including Irvine’s involvement in task forces to stop street racing, halt human trafficking and address property crimes like package and catalytic converter theft. My focus on these issues has earned me the endorsements of Orange County Sheriff Don Barnes and the Irvine Police Association.
Q: What is your vision for the city as undeveloped land becomes scarcer but its population continues to grow?
A: While there are many neighborhoods throughout our community that are already at “build-out,” there are opportunities to bring housing options in areas of our city that don’t impact the traffic, schools and quality of life of existing residents. When new communities get built, more neighbors move in, but the impacts must be mitigated through road improvements, investment in our infrastructure, partnerships with local schools, expansion and improvement to our parks system and more. As new development occurs, we must be smarter about how Irvine executes and lives up to our Master Plan.
There are those who want to move to Irvine and enjoy a more urban lifestyle. I hope that we can work with property owners to address their needs in areas that don’t change the quality of life for those who chose Irvine for its quieter and more subdued villages.
Q: What do you think the city should do to address homelessness? Are you in support of building and operating a city-run shelter?
A: In 2018, the county of Orange announced a plan to move thousands of homeless individuals living in tents along the Santa Ana Riverbed next to Angel Stadium to the Great Park. I worked with the local neighbors, city staff and county leaders to push back. Together, plans were developed that addressed the real needs of the homeless rather than moving their “tent city” from place to place. Since then, I’ve worked with local food banks, social services non-profits, affordable housing advocates, veterans organizations and others to tackle the greater issues causing homelessness.
I support building a city-managed homeless shelter with services and opportunities to put clients on a pathway. The question is and will always be “where?” and “how?” We must locate the shelter convenient enough for clients to be able to seek out much-needed resources and humanely delivered services, but also not impacting neighborhoods, schools and parks.
Irvine set a goal to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2030, but staff said last year the city won’t hit that target in time. What are your ideas to make Irvine more energy-efficient and greener?
I fully support efforts to explore reducing Irvine’s carbon footprint. Discussions are already underway to establish a city-supported solar rooftop and battery storage program for residents. We must also continue working with local homeowners, businesses and property owners to incentivize investments that reduce their carbon footprints, as well as through new construction methods, better window efficiency and newer and more energy-efficient appliances. These ideas were the driving force behind what is now the “One Irvine” program, providing loan and grant incentives to local homeowners. As technologies in building, automotive and other uses continue to develop (many of which are developed right here in Irvine), we can quickly adopt innovative ways of being an energy-efficient city.
Follow the Money: via the link
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Irvine City Council District 5 Candidate
“BYRON SALVATIERRA | Cybersecurity Manager/Father
I'm an Iraq War veteran. I've called Irvine home for 40 years. I grew up here going to Springbrook Elementary School, Lakeside Middle School, Woodbridge High School, and Irvine Valley College. I worked as a Public Safety Assistant for the Irvine Police Department and served as a reserve firefighter with the Orange County Fire Authority.
After Iraq, I found another way to serve close to home. I'm the Cubmaster for our local scout pack, 50 families strong. I built the bridge our scouts cross at graduation. I also built the safety team for Orange County's pro-democracy rallies. I helped keep our neighbors safe as they exercised their right to speak out.
I rode my bike to the University Park Library growing up, and my kids have too. Irvine now runs its own library system, and families drive to Tustin for better selection. I'll get our community involved in building an Irvine library system that brings those families back.
Irvine also faces a real budget shortfall. We deserve a council that works toward real transparency and accountability, and one that listens and follows through for every resident.
I'm running because this city gave my family a chance, and I want to keep building that chance for the next one. It would be an honor to earn your vote.
Email:
Campaign Website: https://www.byronforirvine.com/
Priorities:
Community
Safety
Accountability
Affordability
Sustainability
Any Other Interesting Info:
Byron has lived in Irvine for over 40 years
He has a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from CSU Long Beach and 25 years of experience in tech, gaming, and cybersecurity.
Per the “New University” UCI newspaper, Byron Salvatierra is a U.S. Army Reserve veteran. During an Irvine city council meeting, he described serving a tour in Baghdad, Iraq, and struggling to transition back to civilian life after returning in 2004. (x)
Social Media Links:
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
Irvine Police Department
Orange County Young Democrats
CA Democrats
South OC Young Democrats
Democrats of Greater Irvine
League of Women Voters of CA
Irvine Democratic Club
Central OC Dems
Filipino American Democratic Caucus
Asian Democrats of Los Angeles County
Candidate’s Public Comments:
In a February 2026 Irvine City Council meeting where an agenda item regarding expanding services to veterans was discussed, Byron spoke about his struggles reintegrating to civilian life after coming from Afghanistan as an Army Reservist in 2004. “My family moved here to Irvine in 1984. At the time, the closest support center was outside city limits,” Salvatierra said. “I firmly believe that if we had a veteran services center here in Irvine, that barrier to entry would have been lower.” (x)
The OC Register asked Byron, “How can the city best meet the demand and mandates for more housing, including at lower price points, while also preserving local control and the quality of life for existing neighborhoods and residents?” He replied, “Like a lot of families here, I’ve felt the housing shortage firsthand: my landlord sold the place we were living in to a cash buyer, without ever considering my VA loan offer, giving us 30 days’ notice. I finally became a homeowner in 2021, mostly through luck. Most families don’t get that luck.
Meeting our state mandate and protecting local control aren’t in conflict, if residents are brought in early, not after a plan is already decided. That means clear answers about what’s protected by law and what’s still up for debate before any major rezoning happens. Pair that with more duplexes, townhomes, and small apartment buildings near transit and shops, not just single-family mansions or big complexes, and streets people can actually walk and bike on, so Irvine can meet what state law requires while still giving residents a real voice.”
On the topic of government transparency, Byron told the OC Register, “Transparency starts with putting spending and decisions in the open before they’re locked in, not after the fact. City Hall went through a major remodel that most residents never heard about until the budget crisis put it under the microscope. That should never happen. I’d support an independent review of city finances and push to get major contracts and long-term budget numbers out on a regular schedule, not whenever staff decides. Residents shouldn’t have to file records requests just to see how their tax dollars are spent.
Transparency also means being reachable. I’ll hold regular office hours and make sure District 5 residents have a direct line to their councilmember, not just when providing public comment at council meetings.”
Endorsed by:
VoteVets
WAVE (Women for American Values and Ethics)
Irvine Indivisible
Valor
OC Indivisible Coalition
Carolyn Inmon, South Orange County Community College District Board of Trustees
Candidate in the News:
Byron has been a guest speaker for the Lavender Democrats OC in 2026. (Source)
(New University UCI Campus Newspaper) Irvine City Council moves to expand veteran services
(OC Register) Byron Salvatierra, Irvine City Council District 5 candidate, 2026 election questionnaire
(OC Register) Irvine voters will pick three candidates from a pool of 10 for City Council
Public Voting Record:
None, candidate has not held public office
$650 from the Irvine Democratic Club
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Irvine City Council District 6 Candidate
“SCOTTY HONG | AGE: 34 | City of Irvine Sustainability Commissioner
As our district elects its own Councilmember for the first time, I ask for your vote. I'm running a grassroots campaign to ensure that our district — which includes UCI and the Jamboree/MacArthur Corridor — has a strong advocate at Irvine City Hall.
I earned my undergraduate degree from Harvard University and a Master of Public Administration from Cornell University. I currently serve as an Irvine Sustainability Commissioner and as Chief Policy Advisor to the Mayor, helping to shape our City's policies on public safety, transportation, sustainability, housing, and quality of life.
As your Councilmember, I will:
Expand the free Irvine Connect shuttle bus system throughout our district, connecting UCI and our residential communities.
Reduce traffic and improve lighting, sidewalks, and walking trails.
Increase neighborhood policing and strengthen fire and emergency services.
Support affordable housing for working families, professionals, and students.
Lower electricity costs by withdrawing from the Orange County Power Authority, which charges Irvine residents the county's highest rates and relies primarily on fossil fuels. Instead, I'll expand rooftop solar and battery storage programs; plant another 100,000 trees; and speed the transition to greener transportation.
With your support, we can build an even brighter future for our district and all Irvine residents!
Thank you, Scotty Hong, ScottyHong.com”
Email: scotty@scottyhong.com
Campaign Website: https://www.scottyhong.com/
Priorities:
Turn the Jamboree corridor into a more livable neighborhood. (Safer crossings and better lighting at key intersections, Mobility options that work for residents, students, and workers.)
Close Sidewalk Gaps and Improve Walkability (Build continuous, safe sidewalks and crossings.)
Expand Irvine CONNECT in District 6 (Strengthen Irvine's free transit network to reduce traffic and improve access.)
Stronger Public Safety Presence (Strengthen neighborhood patrol coverage and community policing. Pursue a District 6–area substation to support proactive public safety.)
Any Other Interesting Info:
Scotty Hong is an Executive Assistant to the Mayor/Chief Policy Advisor to Mayor Larry Agran since 2024, and an Irvine Sustainability Commissioner. He holds a master's degree in public administration from Cornell University.
He is running non partisan, but “...is believed to be a Democrat” but incumbent Kathleen Treseder already received the Democratic endorsement
Claims on his Instagram that he “Helped advance Irvine’s local minimum-and living-wage standards.”
Social Media Links:
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
Facebook:
Follower and following lists are privated
Instagram:
Xavier Becerra for Governor
Congressman Dave Min
Governor Gavin Newson
Department of Homeland Security
Senator Alex Padilla
United Nations
Barack Obama
“A student-led volunteer team supporting Scotty Hong for Irvine City Council, District 6.”
Potus (Donald J Trump)
Joe Biden (archived POTUS account)
Manuel Chavez
Costa Mesa Mayor Pro Tem
The rest is mostly accounts of pretty Asian women
Candidate’s Public Comments:
Meet the 2026 Candidates for District 6
“Traffic and limited transportation choices are District 6’s most urgent challenges. Our density and resident feedback demonstrate a strong need for better transit. During my first year, I would push for a District 6 pilot expanding the free Irvine CONNECT shuttle along the Jamboree corridor—linking apartments, UCI, and shopping and measure its results using ridership and traffic data.”
Facebook Posts”:
10/07/2026 - “With your mail ballot, you have a clear choice for Irvine's financial future. Stop the multi-million dollar deficits. Bring fiscal balance back to our city budget. 🗳️ Mark your ballot for Scotty Hong for City Council”
10/01/2026 - “My platform: community office hours for listening. Close sidewalk gaps. Expand outdoor recreation. Increase transportation. Reduce traffic. Practical green.”
“Substantive motions and supporting memoranda should be submitted to staff and posted publicly far enough in advance for meaningful review.””
Endorsed by:
ICNV (Irvine Community News & Views - local newspaper that follows Bill Maher on Facebook 🤮. They also follow UICC which is a very cool church.)
Candidate in the News:
Hong vs. Treseder: Skyrocketing Electricity Bills Top Concern in City Council Election - ICNV
“Hong wants the City to invest in verifiable, real-world solutions to the climate crisis. That includes planting tens of thousands of trees throughout the City to reduce Irvine’s carbon footprint, manage stormwater runoff, enhance biodiversity, mitigate the urban heat-island effect, cool our neighborhoods, and improve air quality. Hong also wants to encourage residents to leave their cars at home by dramatically expanding the City’s free shuttle bus system. And he wants to make it easier (and cheaper) for Irvine households to take advantage of the City’s rooftop-solar and battery-storage programs.”
Public Voting Record:
Not Found
$9,000.00 - 10/05/2026
Payer: scotty Hong
Filer: Scotty Hong for Irvine City Council 2026
$9,996.18 - 10/02/2026
Payer: North Orange County Business Alliance Council (NOCBAC)
Filer: North Orange County Business Alliance Council (NOCBAC)
“3-Mayors Mailer supporting Scotty Hong”
$650.00 - 09/16/2026
Payer: Charlie Zhang
Employer: Zion Enterprises
Filer: Scotty Hong for Irvine City Council 2026
$650.00 - 09/05/2026
Payer: Triple-I Group
Filer: Scotty Hong for Irvine City Council 2026
$650.00 - 09/05/2026
Payer: Stella Yu
Employer: Triple I Group (CEO and Founder)
Filer: Scotty Hong for Irvine City Council 2026
$650.00 - 08/05/2026
Payer: Larry Agran
Mayor of Irvine
Filer: Scotty Hong for Irvine City Council 2026
“Mistletoe seed packets for campaign outreach”
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Irvine City Council District 6, Incumbent
“KATHLEEN TRESEDER | Councilmember, City of Irvine/Educator
My name is Kathleen Treseder. I am a scientist, not a politician. As a professor at University of California, Irvine, I work every day to find facts and uncover truth, to find solutions and push for progress.
For the last four years, I have been honored to serve as your City Councilmember. I have brought the same approach I bring to my lab and my classroom to City Hall.
I have pushed for reforms to clean up City Government, including balancing our budget and banishing corrupt lobbyists. I believe Irvine will work better for everyone when everyone can be sure their voice and the needs of their neighborhoods are heard. When Live Nation wanted a sweetheart deal to profit off public spaces, I stopped the corporate giveaway.
I have worked to expand access to green spaces and parks. As a mom and a climate scientist, I know how important protecting our outdoor spaces are to our health.
I am running for re-election because there is more work to do. We must strengthen our businesses while protecting our workers. We must solve the affordable housing crisis to ensure every family can prosper. And we must never stop fighting for our progressive values that keep us strong.”
Email:
Campaign Website: https://www.treseder4irvine.com/
Priorities:
Climate & Clean Environment (...advocate for clean power with good-paying, long-term clean energy jobs. I will hold polluters accountable.)
Equality and Safety (...I reject fear-based enforcement in our city, and stand firmly with every resident who deserves dignity, due process, and the right to live without fear.)
Affordability (It is unconscionable that the people who feed us, teach us, take care of and love our children, build and repair our homes, and guard our health cannot afford to live in our community)
Expanding Irvine's Infrastructure (...continue to fight for capital improvements, more retail and recreational centers, libraries, fiber networks, and multi-modal transportation solutions.)
Transparency and Accountability
Any Other Interesting Info:
Previously endorsed by Sunrise Movement
Social Media Links:
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
Facebook
Instagram
Irvine Connect Fan Page
represents the interests of California’s community choice electricity providers in the legislature and at state regulatory agencies
Irvine Democratic Club
OC Young Dems
Working to make sure Irvine has robust & comprehensive public transit, safe bike lane infrastructure, and mixed used zoning areas (all great things)
serve Orange County educating our communities about Climate Change, along with advocating for legislative & economic policies that support a sustainable future
Candidate’s Public Comments:
In a Facebook post dated November 20, 2024, she said, “Today, I stand with UC workers on the picket line, protesting the University of California's unfair labor practices. Frontline workers are on strike because UC has failed to bargain in good faith. Instead, they have:
Increased workers' healthcare costs.
Withheld critical information needed for negotiations.
Sent unprepared representatives without authority to negotiate.
Made unacceptable proposals that disregard workers' rights.
These workers are essential to our universities, keeping campuses running and providing a safe, supportive environment. They deserve fair treatment and respect. Join me in supporting UC workers by joining the picket line, amplifying their voices on social media, and demanding fair negotiations from the UC.” source
Meet the 2026 Candidates for District 6 - The Vine
“District 6's biggest challenge is that despite rapid development and housing growth, it remains one of the least integrated parts of the city, lacking the transit and sidewalk connections, civic representation, and amenities more established districts enjoy. It deserves representative leadership. In my first year, I'll complete the Pocket Parks and Greenspace Master Plan I initiated, push infrastructure planning that keeps pace with growth, and secure affordable housing for working families, young professionals, seniors, and veterans.”
Endorsed by:
Sierra Club Los Angeles Chapter (they are cool!)
Candidate in the News:
Editorial: Irvine wants to dictate grocery store decisions - OC County Register
Irvine City Council Quietly Doubles Their Personal Budgets Ahead of Deficit - Voice of OC
“...Council members’ office budgets have gone from roughly $300,000 apiece a decade ago to over $600,000 each – higher levels than OC’s other two big cities of Anaheim and Santa Ana…Councilwoman Kathleen Treseder was in second place at over $477,000 with three full-time staff members.”
Time to Get Real on City Council Staff Pay - Liberal OC
“The City itself reports 2025 total employment costs of $29,837.88 for Mayor Agran, $46,408.80 for Vice Mayor Mai, $44,025.36 for William Go, $35,339.33 for Melinda Liu, $20,733.24 each for Mike Carroll and Kathleen Treseder, and $19,108.45 for Betty Martinez Franco.”
An OCPA Cash Grab at Today’s Meeting? - Liberal OC
“By 2023, Treseder was an OCPA board member/vice chair and was publicly pushing for changes at the agency…Treseder claimed that the FBI had told her that “any agency that starts with OC and ends in an ‘A’ is compromised.”
Treseder: Irvine City Council Vote to Stand with Women Against Abuse - Voice of OC
“I support the Irvine Hotel Worker Protection Ordinance being proposed by UNITE HERE Local 11, the labor union that represents some hotel workers in the city. The ordinance would establish three much-needed safeguards for hotel workers in our city.”
A Sit-Down with Councilmember Kathleen Treseder - Irvine Watchdog
“...the things I’m most proud of are really working hard on the environmental programs and pushing that as much as I can, as long as it’s fiscally responsible, and whatever I can get the council to agree to.”
Kathleen Treseder Removed from Irvine’s Affordable Housing Nonprofit Board
“...The Board stated that Ms. Treseder was removed for cause after she conditioned her support for a new affordable housing project on the removal of a director with whom she did not get along and then stopped attending Land Trust meetings when the Board refused her demand…After it became clear that the director would not be removed and that the project would move forward, Treseder stopped attending all Land Trust meetings.”
Meet the 2026 Candidates for District 6 - The Vine
Hong vs. Treseder: Skyrocketing Electricity Bills Top Concern in City Council Election - ICNV
“Treseder helped to establish OCPA, which is now charging Irvine electricity customers the highest monthly rates in Orange County while relying heavily on fossil-fuel-generated electricity.”
Public Voting Record: Follow the Money: via the link (*not available for CITY government positions)
$50.00 - 09/18/2026
Payer: Kathleen Treseder
Filer: Connor Traut For Supervisor 2026
$-200.00 - 09/15/2026 (note negative #)
Payer: Gary Stewart
Filer: Treseder for City Council 2026
$-500.00 - 09/15/2026 (note negative #)
Payer: Joseph Benadretti
Filer: Treseder for City Council 2026
$300.00 - 09/10/2026
Payer: Treseder for City Council 2026
Filer: Treseder for City Council 2026
$650.00 - 09/08/2026
Payer: UFCW Local 324 PAC
Filer: Treseder for City Council 2026
$500.00 - 09/04/2026
Payer: Planned Parenthood of Orange and San Bernadino Counties' Community Action Fun PAC
Filer: Treseder for City Council 2026
$650.00 - 08/31/2026
Filer: Treseder for City Council 2026
$650.00 - 08/19/2026
Payer: Nancy Chase (Zionists!)
Filer: Treseder for City Council 2026
$650.00 - 08/19/2026
Payer: Irving Chase (Zionists!)
Filer: Treseder for City Council 2026
City Mayoral Race
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Irvine Mayor Candidate
“LARRY AGRAN | Mayor of Irvine
It has been my privilege to serve as your Mayor, united by a shared vision to make Irvine the Safest, Smartest, Greenest, Healthiest, and Kindest City in America.
Together, we've made remarkable progress toward that goal. Now, I ask for your vote to continue our work. Specifically, we must:
Invest in public safety to maintain our ranking as America's Safest Big City.
Expand our newly established Irvine Public Library System with new programs, enhanced services, and 100,000 additional books.
Build-out the Great Park; maintain our top-ranked Irvine park system; and add the 700-acre Gateway Preserve to our 10,000-acre Irvine Open Space Preserve.
Implement our Urban Forest Master Plan, planting another 100,000 trees
Equip our City Hall with cost-saving solar panels and battery backup systems.
Improve mobility and reduce traffic and pollution by expanding our free, non-polluting Irvine Connect shuttle bus service throughout Irvine.
Expand our public health and social support initiatives, creating a City of Irvine Department of Health and Wellness.
Let's do all this . . . and more, while continuing to adopt balanced budgets with $100 million in reserves to guarantee the delivery of Irvine's top-notch city services.
I ask for your vote so we can continue to move forward . . . together.
Thank you! Larry Agran, LarryAgran.com”
Email: LarryAgran@cityofirvine.org
Campaign Website: https://larryagran.com/
Larry’s campaign website leads with the slogan, “A Leader We Can Trust. The Experience We Need.”
Priorities:
Incremental City Planning initiatives
Expanding Great Park area
Green initiative- preserving Irvine open space
Leave OCPA (Orange County Power Authority)
Any Other Interesting Info:
Incumbent Mayor source, having won with 38.8% of the vote in 2024. source
Connect with Rcv folks to ask about how he conducted himself re: getting RCV on the ballot.
On June 1st, 1988, then-Mayor Larry Agran (he’s been in politics a LONG time) visited the ‘Shantytown’ protest encampment at UC Irvine to participate in a ‘Day of Dissent’ in which students were protesting the then-President Ronald Reagan’s policies. Larry was among 13 speakers at the event that day, and spoke about the importance of student activism. Per local historical records of the encampment, Three groups were primarily responsible for the encampment's construction and participation: Associated Graduate Students, the Gay and Lesbian Student Union, and the Shantytown Committee, and a major reason behind the encampment was to protest UCI’s refusal to let queer couples live in housing as married couples as this was 25 years before gay marriage would be made legal in CA. source
At an America 250 event hosted at the Irvine Hindu Mandir, Agran made a public pledge that he would not support future legislation containing the word “caste.” source
Climate activists with Sunrise Movement in Orange County protested by chanting in the chambers in 2025 against Agran’s efforts to terminate the city’s contract with the Orange County Power Authority. Agran directed the police to remove them. Irvine is not the only city in the region to seek detachment from OCPA, as Huntington Beach and a number of other cities have done the same, and concerns have been raised by community members about political motivations behind those decisions. Source
DISCLAIMER: Sunrise Movement of OC is a partner organization of Pride at the Pier, and while our organization did not participate in that effort, our team members have participated with them on other efforts, notably the DeFlock OC campaign.
Social Media Links:
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
MEChA de UC Irvine @mecha.ucirvine
OC Justice Fund @oc_justicefund
UC Irvine School of Law @ucilaw
Harbor Institute for Immigrant & Economic Justice @harborinstituteoc
Arab American Civic Council @arabcouncil
OC Climate Coalition @occlimatecoaltion
Fridays for Future OC @fridaysforfutureorangecounty
Congressman Dave Min @repdavemin
Dr. Letitia Clark @letitiacclark
Mayor Connor Traut @connortraut
Councilmember Arlis Reynolds @arlisreynoldscm
Sunrise Movement Orange Countty @sunrisemvmtoc
Irvine Police Department @irvinepolice
Irvine Valley College Democrats @ivcdems
Democrats of Greater Irvine @demsofirvine
Farrah N Khan @farrahforoc
Santa Ana City Councilmember Phil Bacerra @philbacerra
Candidate’s Public Comments:
As reported by the Voice of OC in 2026, Larry Agran said the city council should only consider tax increases and reserve spending as a last-ditch effort to bail the budget out. Mayor Larry Agran said the deficits are not a “fiscal crisis,” pointing to the city’s $135 million reserves and claiming the city is the most financially stable in the nation. “I think it’s way too early in this process to be imposing a prescription for the difficulties that we’re anticipating,” Agran said. “We’re not in dire straits.” source
In response to a months-long effort by Free Palestine activists, Agran supported the city taking actions to respond to the genocide in Palestine (which he referred to as a ‘war’) and its impact on the local community. In a memo sent to the city manager in collaboration with then-Mayor Farrah Khan dated February 23, 2024, Agran asked for the following to be agendized for the next city council meeting. The memo does read in a somewhat ‘both-sides’ manner but acknowledges the impact of the conflict on the local community. The text of the memo is as follows.
“UPDATED MEMO – Consideration of Local Action Items in Response to Current Mideast Crisis: While the war in the Mideast is thousands of miles from us in Orange County, California, nevertheless, the effects of this continuing war – with its shocking scale of violence and savagery – reverberate around the world. And it has had an outsized and painful impact on us right here in Irvine.
Specifically, many communities within Irvine have reported and publicly commented that they are feeling threatened and unsafe. We have heard reports that children are being harassed at Irvine schools based on their heritage, religion, attire, and their individual beliefs regarding the current war in the Mideast. And members of the broader Irvine community have reported similar toxic interactions.
When taking the entire situation into account, we have recognized that while there currently exists no combination of words which we can say that will satisfy all segments of our exceptionally diverse community, we believe there are specific things we can do – and should do – as a City to help make things better. Among the things we can do are these:
1. We can promote an understanding that our City will always provide safe spaces, including at City Hall, where we honor both in word and deed, the right of individuals to speak their minds and, in the words of our Constitution, “peaceably assemble” and “petition their Government for a redress of grievances.”
2. We can work with Irvine school district officials – both in the Irvine Unified School District and the Tustin Unified School District – to ensure that our
City-deployed staff, including School Resource Officers, and school district personnel are increasingly effective in promoting a school environment where all members of the school community are made to feel safe and respected at all times.
3. We can enlist human relations organizations of proven effectiveness – for example, Groundswell and the Interfaith Council – to initiate community meetings and dialogues that begin to bridge differences, promote respect, and repair relationships within our City.
4. We can prepare a City plan to facilitate humanitarian relief – including roles that can be played by private citizens, as well as Irvine businesses and major institutions – once a ceasefire is in place. Please agendize this item for discussion and possible action at the February 27th meeting of the Irvine City Council.” source
Irvine may pass measure D this November, changing its elections to a ranked choice voting setup, similar to what New York City has. In a city council meeting about this, Agran said, “Moving to a new system — can we do that technically? And at what cost? (...) And this is all speculation, but I’m almost certain you can’t do it for $700,000. We can’t even hold a simple special election in Irvine for $700,000. But to change all the technology and the ballot and everything associated with it — especially when we’re first in — I’ve been told would cost millions.” source
DISCLAIMER: Pride at the Pier is endorsing a YES vote on Measure D.
Endorsed by:
Larry Agran does not have an endorsement page on his website as of October 7, 2026.
Candidate in the News:
(Irvine Community News and Events) Interview with Irvine’s New Mayor: Larry Agran
(LA Times 2025) Climate activists chant ‘Stay in OCPA’ in disrupting Irvine mayor’s speech
(Independent Voter News 2026) Irvine Elected Its Mayor With 39% of the Vote. Now Voters Can Change the Rules
(Voice of OC 2024) Irvine Officials Won’t Formally Weigh in on Palestine and Israel
(India West 2024) Irvine Mayor Larry Agran Attends Hindu Mandir’s America250 Celebration
Public Voting Record: Voting Record
$18,794.81 from Political Action Committee of Irvine Police Association
$650 from Diamond Jamboree, LTD(Genie Swabb)
$650 from NBTC LLC(Samuel Swabb)
$650 from Prime Enterprises, LLC(Michael Theil)
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Irvine Mayor Candidate
“MAKSIM V EGOROV | Software Engineer/Businessowner
I am blessed and proud to call Irvine home. My passion for protecting Irvine’s open space, serving every resident, and planning responsibly for the future inspired me to run for Mayor.
As a software engineer, I have built my career solving problems, improving quality, and delivering results. I will bring a practical, transparent, and accountable approach to City Hall.
I serve on my neighborhood HOA Board and have volunteered on the School Site Council and English Learner Advisory Committee (ELAC) at my children’s Irvine school. These experiences have strengthened my belief that the best decisions come from listening and working together.
As Mayor, I will work collaboratively with my fellow Council members to strengthen fiscal responsibility, provide strong budget oversight, restore long-term budget stability, protect our open space, support public safety, encourage innovation, and give residents the opportunity to vote on the future of our open space.
As a husband and father, I want Irvine to remain one of the safest and best places to live, work, and raise a family by protecting our quality of life, planning responsibly, and improving mobility
throughout our city.
I will lead with integrity and be a Mayor for all of Irvine.”
Email: maxforirvine@gmail.com
Campaign Website: https://maxforirvine.com/
Priorities:
One Irvine: Represent every village, generation, and cultural community with an accessible mayor’s office and respectful, nonpartisan leadership.
Protect Irvine’s open space: Defend the voter-approved protections of Open Space Ballot Initiative Resolution 88-1, preserve connected habitats, and make major land-use decisions transparent to residents. I am committed to pursuing a clear and transparent ballot measure that gives Irvine voters a voice in the future of our open space.
Responsible city spending: Strengthen oversight of contracts and major projects, promote public accountability, and support prudent use of taxpayer dollars.
Safe, well-maintained neighborhoods: Keep Irvine safe, prepared, and moving. Support strong public safety, wildfire and emergency preparedness, well-maintained roads and public spaces, and improvements that make it easier and safer to move throughout our city.
Practical, Results-Focused Government: Focus on facts, measurable results, and practical solutions. Major city decisions should have clear goals, transparent reasoning, and accountability for results.
Any Other Interesting Info:
He’s a real estate agent: https://maksimegorov.com/
Per the OC Register, Egorov emigrated from Russia and settled in Irvine in 2016.
Max is a supporter of making Irvine more pedestrian-friendly. Source
He’s received the endorsement from Jewish Community Action Network (JCAN), an organization in Orange County that fights antisemitism. JCAN does consider anti-Zionism to be antisemitism, and has lambasted members of Congress who have voted against continued arms sales to Israel. JCAN has recently sent a letter protesting former Irvine mayor Farrah Khan as the president of the Orange County Rotary Club, raising concerns over statements over hers that JCAN considers ‘blood libel’, a term for an antisemitic conspiracy that’s been around approximately 900 years that Jewish people kill and eat non-Jewish children. Blood libel is a deeply harmful antisemitic conspiracy theory that has been used repeatedly throughout history to justify harm against Jewish people. Simultaneously, the usage of the term to reject the arguments of people advocating for an end to the Palestinian genocide is something that has been a source of significant conflict. Source source source source
Social Media Links:
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
Voter Choice Irvine (Ranked Choice Voting)
The Next Bench Project (“Free law education for middle schoolers 📚⚖️ Bringing legal knowledge to underserved communities)
Candidate’s Public Comments:
In an October 3rd, 2026 Instagram post, Max said, “I’m honored to have received the recommendation of JCAN, a Jewish community organization, in the race for Irvine Mayor. If elected as a Mayor I will work for everyone who calls Irvine home. It doesn’t matter where you were born, what language you speak, religion you practice, or whether you practice any religion at all. My responsibility will be to serve our entire community, listen to every neighborhood, and treat people with respect. Irvine is home to people from many different backgrounds. That diversity is one of our strengths, and City Hall should work for all of us.” source
Egorov wrote an Op-Ed in the Voice of OC regarding potential development of previously protected green space. In it, he says, “Irvine’s open space system is one of the defining features of the city. It was created through a combination of careful planning, negotiated agreements, and direct voter action.
Initiative Resolution 88-1 reflects the will of Irvine residents who voted to ensure that certain lands would remain protected.
If the City believes those protections should be changed, the appropriate path is not to reinterpret them through incremental zoning changes. Instead, the issue should be addressed transparently and, if necessary, returned to the voters.
Before Irvine makes decisions that could permanently alter this land, residents deserve to fully understand the legal commitments that were made — and the protections that were put in place — when Irvine voters approved Resolution 88-1.
The future of Oak Creek should be decided with those commitments clearly in mind.” You can read the Op-Ed in full here.
“I am an Irvine resident, husband, father, software engineer, and community volunteer. My professional background is in technology, where I have spent years working as part of teams to solve complex problems, improve quality, and deliver results.
In Irvine, I serve on my neighborhood HOA Board and have volunteered on the School Site Council and English Learner Advisory Committee (ELAC) at my children’s school. I have also been actively involved in advocating for the protection of Irvine’s open space and regularly participate in City Council meetings.
I am not a career politician. I decided to run for Mayor because I care deeply about Irvine and believe residents deserve a strong voice in the decisions that shape our city's future.
As a candidate, I bring an engineer’s problem-solving mindset, a commitment to listening, and a belief that local government should be practical, transparent, accountable, and focused on serving all residents.” source
“I am personally passionate about protecting Irvine’s open space, responsible land-use planning, fiscal responsibility, public safety, and government transparency.
I believe local government should carefully manage taxpayer dollars, provide strong oversight of major projects and contracts, and plan responsibly for Irvine’s long-term future.
I am also interested in improving mobility and using technology and innovation where they can make city services more efficient, accessible, and responsive to residents.” source
Endorsed by:
Sally Anne Sheridan, former Irvine Councilwoman from 1984 to 1992, who voted against environmental efforts during her time on the council. source
Dr. Stefan Bean, Orange County Superintendent of Schools, deeply connected to the anti-LGBTQ work in Orange County
Debbie Sorensen, Board Member of the Orangetree Patio Homes Association and Longtime Irvine Resident
Hank Adler, Former Chair of the Finance Commission, Planning Commission, and former President of the School Board
Candidate in the News:
(Voice of OC, Op-Ed) Egorov: Before Irvine Decides The Future Of Oak Creek, Residents Should Know, The Land Is Subject To A Public Open Space Easement
(OC Register) Two compete for Irvine’s mayor seat at a junction in the city’s evolution
Public Voting Record: None Found, candidate has not held public office
No campaign contributions found
Saddleback Valley Unified School District
Due to bandwidth limitations, our fully volunteer team was not able to complete the research for this race. Thank you for understanding, and please check out the local races we did cover.
Santa Ana Unified School District
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Santa Ana USD Area 4 Trustee Candidate, Incumbent, 4 year term
Challenger is Sylvia Iglesias
“KATELYN BRAZER ACEVES | Governing Board Member, Santa Ana Unified School
District, Trustee Area 4
As President of the Santa Ana Unified School District Board of Education and a school employee with the Orange County Department of Education who works directly with students and parents every day, I've applied my experience as an educator and proven leadership to help improve our schools. Additionally, I am the candidate officially endorsed by the Santa Ana Educators’ Association (SAEA) and the California School Employees Association (CSEA), Santa Ana Chapter 41.
During my first term, SAUSD achieved academic gains across every California School Dashboard indicator for the first time.
Together, we placed reading coaches at every elementary school, strengthened support for English Learners through new courses and targeted interventions, and increased college and career readiness by creating new internship opportunities in high-demand fields.
I led the creation of our districtwide Immigration Support Plan to help students safely attend school and families access resources, created two Student Board Member positions, and established the SAUSD Community Budget Advisory Committee to strengthen fiscal
transparency.
Through building no-cost community partnerships, I've increased resources to students and families without relying on district general funds. This allows more money to be invested in classroom instruction where it matters most.
Under my leadership, voters overwhelmingly approved the largest K–12 school bond in Orange County in 2024, securing over $355 million to modernize aging schools and provide safe, high-quality learning environments for every student.
Email: katelynbrazer@gmail.com
Campaign Website: https://katelynbrazer.com/
Her campaign website leads with the words, “I’m running for re-election to keep building schools where every child is supported, every family belongs, and every student can succeed.”
Priorities:
Improving Academic Achievement
Securing New Partnerships & Resources for Our Schools
Elevating Student and Parent & Expanding Resources for Families
Strengthening Fiscal Transparency
Modernizing Our Schools
Any Other Interesting Info:
Aceves is the incumbent in this seat.
She is a Community Resource Specialist with the Orange County Department of Education, along with her role as a Trustee. source
First-generation college grad with a Master’s Degree
In 2025, Aceves voted with her fellow trustees on the board to censure Trustee Brenda Lebsack after Lebsack made repeated transphobic statements from the dais. source
Katelyn was the guest on the first episode of a new podcast and video series from Orange County Business Council and the Orange County Department of Education. In it, Brazer-Aceves discusses how the importance of school can look different in every household and shares examples of how family workshops and parent outreach can help remove barriers to engagement. She also describes how stronger connections between families and schools can contribute to increased student success. source
According to a FB post dated Aug 1, 2026, she held a fundraiser on Aug 2, 2026 at Ra Yoga with Tracy La, President of VietRise and GGUSD candidate. VietRise is a progressive group active in Orange County’s Vietnamese community.
Social Media Links:
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook: ocworkingfamiliesparty, arlis4costamesa (Arlis Reynolds), sandraforsantaana (Sandra de Anda - Pres. of OCRRN), dgarciaofficial (Davis Garcia from OCYD), farrahforOC (Farrah N Khan), tracyla.oc (Tracy La), thaivphan (Councilmember Thai Viet Phan), carlosiperea (Leader of Harbor Institute), officialmuneton (Walter Muneton, GGUSD Boardmember), oc_dems_and_progressives, santaanaclimateresilience, oc_justicefund, chispa.oc, liberalmomsofnorthorangecounty, ocdsa
Candidate’s Public Comments:
During a school board meeting in May 2025, Aceves and her colleagues criticized the transphobic statements made by fellow trustee Brenda Lebsack. In voting to censure Lebsack, Aceves said, “I support this resolution because it reaffirms our commitment to maintaining a safe, respectful environment for all students. Words matter, especially when they come from individuals in positions of public trust.” source
In response to the many legitimate fears brought forward by mixed-status immigrant families as attacks by ICE on the community increased beginning in summer 2025, Katelyn supported streamlining access for impacted students to attend the Virtual Academy that was set up during the COVID pandemic. “We are making it very clear that we are to limit any barriers, and we're being extremely flexible as far as age and grade level to meet the needs, if there is a concern around immigration at this time (...) We tasked our superintendent at the time to create our immigrant support plan, and within that to create policies to respond to ICE activity”. Source
The LA Times reported on an SAUSD meeting where mass layoffs were announced by the board due to budget constraints. The article reported; ‘Trustee Katelyn Brazer Aceves choked up with emotion during her prepared remarks on the layoffs. “It is my ethical obligation to ensure that we maintain a positive budget,” she said, fighting back tears, “so that we can continue to provide a full, robust and competitive scope of services to our students as well as pay our employees on time.”’ source
She responded to the Orange County Register’s Candidate Questionnaire during her 2022 race.
Question: A lot of attention has been on banned book lists (fake and real) popping up around the country. Should the school board have a role in regulating or “banning” books? Should it encourage reading a variety of topics?
Answer: “As a board member, I would encourage all students to read a plethora of books to expand their literary exposure. I would encourage the district to continue expanding access to books that are culturally diverse and reflect the experiences and history of our students and community.” source
Endorsed by:
Vicente Sarmiento, Orange County 2nd District Supervisor
CSEA, AFL-CIO (Union for Classified School District Employees)
Angie Gomez, SAUSD Parent & Alumna
Hector Bustos, SAUSD VP, first openly LGBTQ+ school board trustee in Orange County
Alfonso Alvarez, SAUSD Clerk
Valerie Magdaleno, SAUSD Trustee
Carolyn Torres, Former SAUSD President
Rigo Rodriguez, Former SAUSD President
Benjamin Vazquez, Santa Ana City Councilmember, DSA slate candidate
Jessie Lopez, Santa Ana City Councilmember
Jonathan Ryan Hernandez, Santa Ana City Councilmember
Thai Viet Phan, Santa Ana City Councilmember
Jessica Guerrero, AUHSD President
Juan Alvarez, AESD President
Dr. Jose Moreno, Former AESD Trustee and Anaheim City Councilmember
Candidate in the News:
(OCDE Newsroom 2026) New podcast in English and Spanish guides Orange County families through educational landscape
(The Culture OC 2026) The Living Murals of a Santa Ana Councilmember’s Classroom
(Voice of OC 2025) Santa Ana Unified School Board Lambasts Colleague for Transgender Remarks
(LAist 2025) Fear of ICE sweeps prompts some Santa Ana families to use a remote learning program set up during COVID
(LA Times 2025) Santa Ana Unified trustees approve 262 layoffs, including teachers and counselors
(Voice of OC 2023) Will Santa Ana Kids Go Without Crossing Guards Over A Funding Spat?
(Voice of OC 2022) Katelyn Brazer Aceves, Santa Ana Unified School District Trustee Area 4 candidate, Election 2022 questionnaire
Public Voting Record:
Candidate has consistently voted in support of LGBTQ+ issues whenever they come up on the agenda
Candidate has consistently voted in support of support for immigrant and mixed status families in SAUSD whenever they come up on the agenda
Candidate voted in support of layoffs due to budgetary constraints
Follow the Money: Katelyn Brazer Aceves for School Board 2026
$550 to Jessie Lopez for Assembly 2026
$500 from Unite Here Local 11
$2500 from Laborers International Union of North America
$244.47 (YTD) from Charis Galeas, Program Director, Latino Health Access
$460 (YTD) from Kerith Dilley, Fundraiser, AltaMed
$473.55 (YTD) from Hadela Sanchez, Adjuster, Sedgwick
$500 from Sabroso Mexican Kitchen!
$250 personally donated to Tracy La for GGUSD, Area 4 2026
05/17/26, $530 from Sabroso Mexican Kitchen! (In form of Comped and discounted food for fundraiser)
05/17/26, ($717.75) paid to Sabroso Mexican Kitchen! for Restaurant Fundraiser Costs (Food)
03/10/26, $250 from Jennifer Brazer
03/05/26, $1000 from Dr. Rigo Rodriguez for Santa Ana Unified School District 2028
03/04/26, $106.25 from Sergio Contreras
02/26/26, $130 from Cito Coffee F460C (Coffee Donation)
02/26/26, $600 from Vicente Sarmiento
02/26/26, $212.20 from Sarah Grabarsky
02/26/26, $250 from Hector Bustos
02/26/26, $500 from Peter Gutierrez
02/26/26, $106.25 from Diana Tercero
02/26/26, $159.23 from David Allen
02/25/26, $140 from Angie Gomez
02/25/26, $106.25 from Monica Leyva
02/22/26, $159.23 from Daisy Rueda
02/21/26, $106.25 from Stephanie Fuentes
02/21/26, $530.05 from Janelle McLoughlin
02/20/26, $1000 from Dr. Rigo Rodriguez for Santa Ana Unified School District 2028
02/16/26, $150 from Valerie Magdaleno
02/09/26, $159.23 from Jessica Hernandez
02/02/26, $265.18 from Kristin Erickson
01/22/26, $500 Loan from Candidate
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Santa Ana USD Area 4 Trustee Candidate, 4 year term
Note from Kanan to M: Sylvia is connected to Brenda Lebsack (@FreeThinker Q: I added a paragraph in Other Interesting Info linking them via La Unión de Padres)
“SYLVIA IGLESIAS | Parent/Teacher/Educator
I’m an Elementary Public School Teacher and Parent. Homegrown Leader, lived in Santa Ana since 1979 having immigrated from El Salvador; resided in Trustee Area-4 since 1990. My children and I are products of Santa Ana Unified School District (SAUSD). I proudly graduated from Santa Ana Valley High School, Santa Ana College and California State University-Fullerton.
With over 30 years of public service from Orange County Social Services Agency, gained experience reviewing budget, policy making, trained staff and connected residents to services.
As a first-generation college graduate, Parent and Teacher, I believe education is important to our families and is society’s great equalizer. I will Always:
Put Students First
Ensure All Students are prepared for College or Workforce
Spend money directly in classrooms, benefiting Students-Not
Bureaucrats. Ensure Accountability and Transparency.
Provide Safe and Strong Schools
Defend Tax-payer dollars and Not increase Your Taxes
Champion Parents' Rights and support Educational Options
Increase College Dual-Enrollment
Support great teachers/staff; ensure they have resources/tools to support students.
Please join Parents, Community/Faith-Based Leaders, Teachers, Law Enforcement Officers and Students to elect Sylvia Iglesias for SAUSD Trustee Area-4.
With your vote, together, we Will Put Students First, build strong future leaders and make SAUSD Great.
Visit www.iglesias4sausd.com or iglesias4education@gmail.com”
Email: iglesias4education@gmail.com
Campaign Website: https://iglesias4sausd.com/
Priorities:
Champion Parents’ Rights
Support Educational Options
Ensure Academic Success for ALL Students
Any Other Interesting Info:
Secretary of La La Unión de Padres, the Spanish-language organization tied to California Policy Center’s Parents’ Union. This is an explicitly anti-LGBTQ group. Source Source source source
Sylvia has been connected to SAUSD Trustee Brenda Lebsack since at least 2024, through their mutual involvement in La Union de Padres/ Parents Union and the California Policy Center. Lebsack is an anti-trans activist and Heritage Foundation speaker. Read more about Lebsack here. Source source
Sylvia ran unsuccessfully for this seat in 2022.
Teacher at Vista Public Charter School
Iglesias’ campaign website critiques the math and reading scores of SAUSD with number back to 2015, but doesn’t provide any solutions. Reading levels have improved, to about the same or better than 2019 levels, and Math levels have slightly improved as well. Check here to consider factors such as 91.5% of SAUSD are economically disadvantaged, 38.4% are English learners, 19.1% experience homelessness, and 16.9% of students have a disability. These issues are not addressed on her website.
Looks to be related to Cecilia “Ceci” Iglesias, the former SAUSD Trustee and Santa Ana City Councilmember and now sits on the Rancho Santiago Community College Board. Cecilia reposts every one of Sylvia’s posts and appears in pictures with her. Cecilia Iglesias is also the founder of California Policy Center’s Parents Union and La Union de Padres, explicitly anti-LGBTQ groups.
Social Media Links:
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
New Santa Ana (far-right ‘news’ in Santa Ana)
Candidate’s Public Comments:
Sylvia interviewed with Gustavo Vargas on his ‘VOZ News’ channel in a video titled, “PARENTS: IF YOU DON'T DEFEND YOUR CHILDREN, PUBLIC SCHOOL WILL DESTROY THEM”. In the first 10 minutes, Vargas talks about “Parents’ Rights” and the dangers of sending their child to public schools in fear of them being indoctrinated. The host, Gustavo Vargas, claims that “The Left” wants as many students as possible to not be able to read, do math, or think so that they will be “sheep” and easy to indoctrinate their minds to become activists and/ or confuse them about their sexuality and/ or gender identity and/or expression. At 1:47 into the video, a picture of a teacher holding a rainbow flag in front of an elementary grade classroom of students. Sylvia repeatedly affirms to Vargas that she agrees with him, and she goes on to say, “...many parents realized during the time of the lockdown when COVID happened, right? They realized what they were teaching our children and many of them were proactive in taking the kids out, and they are homeschooling or they put them in private schools, all those who can, right? …. And with that (tax money the schools) get, we as parents should demand our rights, and have them teach what they need to teach, which is the good stuff.”
Further on in the interview, Gustavo launched into a 3-minute long tirade advocating for book bans, referencing “pornography” in public schools, and discussing the book All Boys Aren’t Blue, young adult memoir-manifesto written by Black nonbinary author and LGBTQIA+ activist George M. Johnson, published on April 28, 2020. Gustavo encouraged parents to ask for information about curriculum and library books (which parents already have the ability to do) and ask about ‘pornography’, advising them to check out a book banning website, before saying, “And remember, you can do what is called an opt-out. You can decide that your children do not receive this type of information. Find out when they are going to give them all this information about genders and gender fluid, and ‘you can be whatever you want’, as I already showed you they are doing in California public schools”. At this point the camera cuts to Sylvia, who is nodding along in agreement. He asks her, “what do we do with all this pornography in public schools?” She responds, “Yes, as you say, Gustavo, it is very necessary and important that parents and grandparents, or aunts and uncles, that they see, that they go to that website that you mentioned and see in their district how many books are being provided in the library and in our schools for our children. Because what’s happening is that the schools, especially here in Santa Ana, that Santa Ana District, they say, well, nobody is complaining. We have three people who complained, and it turns out those three people who complained were teachers, and they say, well, the parents aren’t saying anything, and that’s their, as they say, their easy way out, and so they keep teaching this to our kids. And it’s very sad, because, let’s say a little kid, a little 5-year old, what business do they have reading these books? And there’s this book called, “You Are So Gay”. They ask the kids to read it, and they make it very colorful, like a cartoon, with pink girls on swings and everything.”
FACT CHECK: At least one of the three teachers she mentions here is the aforementioned Brenda Lebsack, who was previously a PE teacher in SAUSD and has repeatedly put out calls to action to the church her husband is a pastor at in LA County for congregants to come to SAUSD school board meetings and complain about the books because parents within the district aren’t doing it.
FACT CHECK: The book “All Boys Aren’t Blue”, written by nonbinary author and Black activist George M. Johnson that Gustavo referenced is only available in the high school libraries in SAUSD, where no five year old would ever be able to access it.
FACT CHECK: There is no widely known book called “You Are So Gay”. We assume Sylvia is referring to the book, “This Book Is Gay”, which is a popular target for the book-banning advocates across Southern California. THAT book is recommended for grades 7-12, not a part of any SAUSD curriculum, and is not available in elementary school classrooms where a five year old would be able to access it, either.
FACT CHECK: The kids are not asked to read these books. They are colorful like most books are. Books are not snakes, being colorful is not a trap for prey.
Endorsed by:
Brenda Lebsack (SAUSD Trustee, anti-trans activist, Heritage Foundation Speaker)
Fmr. State Senator Gloria Romero (Ran for Lt. Governor in June on an anti-LGBTQ platform)
Assemblymember Carl DeMaio (Republican, founder of far-right organization Reform CA)
Hon. Sal Tinajero (President Rancho Santiago Community College Trustee-Ret.)
Hon. Phil Yarbrough, President Rancho Santiago Community College Trustee
Hon. Daisy Tong, Rancho Santiago Community College Trustee
Hon. Jorge Valdes, Orange County Board of Education
Community Leader, Tim Rush former President Wilshire Square NA
Community Leader, Robin Nordell
Jon Paul White via his FB group Operation FIGHT BACK “This project has been created to assist Conservatives and Patriots retake our CALIFORNIA SCHOOL BOARDS.”
Nancy’s Picks - Nancy’s Picks (far-right voter guide in Orange County, whose criteria for endorsement include “PRO-LIFE & PROTECTIONS for the UNBORN”, “PRO-SANCTITY of HETEROSEXUAL MARRIAGE”, “PRO-PARENTAL RIGHTS in EDUCATION”, “PRO-NUCLEAR FAMILY”, “SUPPORT FOR ISRAEL and IT’S RIGHT to EXIST”, “SECURE & SEAL OUR BORDERS”, and more.
Reform California - (far-right organization led by Carl DeMaio)
Candidate in the News:
“Sylvia Iglesias, Santa Ana Unified School District Area 4 candidate, 2026 election questionnaire” The Orange County Register, Oct 5, 2026 (The candidate posted the questions and her answers on her campaign FB account on Oct 5, 2026)
Public Voting Record: None Found
Follow the Money: Iglesias for SAUSD Trustee 2026
$4000 loan from candidate on 10/01/26
$1000 from Charter Public Schools PAC
$2000 from Orange County Charter Advocates for Great Public Schools Committee
$2000 from Orange County Advocates for Great Public Schools, sponsored by California Charter Schools Association Advocates
$500 loan from candidate on 09/19/26
$2500 from Salvador Tinajero
$600 loan from candidate on 08/19/26
06/10/26, $800 from Sylvia Iglesias
05/12/26, $800 from Sylvia Iglesias
04/30/26, $1000 from Sylvia Iglesias
$300 each to appear on five different Slate Cards: Save Prop 13, California Public Safety Voter Guide, California Tax Reduction Committee, Taxifornia Tax Fighters’ Newsletter, and Woman’s Voice
Paid differing amounts to some campaign consultants, including $330 (see page 11 of form) to Jon Paul White, who is calling for the banning of Muslims from serving in public office again and calls elected officials belonging to the Democratic Party communists.
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Santa Ana USD Area 5 Trustee Candidate, Incumbent, 4 year term
Challenger is Alejandra Rodriguez
“HECTOR BUSTOS | Governing Board Member, Santa Ana Unified School
District, Trustee Area 5
As a proud product of the Santa Ana Unified School District, serving on the School Board has been the honor of my life. When I was elected four years ago, I was a recent college graduate who ran for office because I believed our schools deserved student-centered leadership.
As School Board President, we delivered the district's strongest academic gains in over a decade, protected essential student services despite severe underfunding, strengthened college and career programs that prepare our students for the future, and partnered with UC Irvine to create a model elementary school that brings the latest research into the classroom.
I'm proud to be the candidate in this race endorsed by the Santa Ana Educators Association and the California School Employees Association. These associations represent thousands of employees, including our teachers, counselors, cafeteria workers, special education professionals, and campus safety officers. Their support reflects the trust we've built and my commitment to the workers who serve our students daily.
Parents have always played a critical role in the decisions I make. Santa Ana families support my re-election because we've made responsible use of their taxpayer dollars by creating safer schools, expanding mental health support for students, and modernizing aging school facilities.
With your support, we’ll continue building the high-performing schools our students deserve.
Email: None Found
Campaign Website: http://www.hectorbustos4sausd.com
Priorities: Hector’s priorities are listed with the title, “Hector’s R.E.A.L. Student Success Agenda”.
R - Resources for Student Mental Health
E - Expanding Career and Technical Education
A - Accountable and Responsible Budgeting
L - Literacy and Learning Recovery
His website also has a page for his accomplishments, listing the following;
Academic Achievement and Student Success
Investing in Schools and Innovation mental health and student support
Standing up for Immigrant families college, career, and workforce readiness
Student voice and well-being
Any Other Interesting Info:
Hector is openly gay, and is the first openly gay school board trustee to be elected in Orange County. He’s also the first openly LGBTQ+ individual to be elected to any office in Santa Ana, starting from when he was elected in 2022 at 23 years old.
Bustos’ high school alma mater is Segerstrom High School, after which he graduated with his Bachelors in Political Science and Government from the University of San Francisco in 2021. Source
Prior to his time on the council, Hector was a board member of the Orange County Behavioral Health Advisory Board. Source Additionally, he also served as a Congressional Intern in late 2020 with the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute in Washington D.C. source
Hector’s campaign held a major fundraiser event at the LGBTQ+ bar in Santa Ana, Queen’s Lounge, on June 25th. source
In 2025, as Board President, Bustos signed an agreement to settle a case brought by an actively Zionist law firm over three ethnic studies courses that did not adhere to Zionist perspectives of the history of the Palestinian region and the current crisis, as well as concerns about the lack of community engagement over the creation of the courses. The SAUSD district superintendent at the time, Jerry Almendarez, made a statement regarding the settlement his office produced for the board; “At no time has the district supported the teaching of instructional content to students that reflects adversely on any group on the basis of religion, race, ethnicity, or national origin as alleged in the lawsuit.” The settlement, which did not constitute a judicial determination of the allegations, suspended the courses until they could be redesigned through a public process and required multiple perspectives when controversial subjects are taught. The law firm, The Brandeis Center, is one of a handful of law firms that have targeted school districts across the state over their curriculum. source
In a 2021 editorial piece for The Voice of OC, Bustos criticized the Orange County Board of Supervisors for prioritizing financial reserves over services for residents struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic. He argued that the county’s failure to distribute available federal relief funding rapidly and equitably placed an unnecessary burden on low-income families, immigrants, and communities of color. Bustos called for greater investment in rental assistance, food security, health services, and other community programs, contending that government budgets should place residents’ immediate needs ahead of accumulating reserves. Source
In a major 2025 controversy, SAUSD was hit by some major layoffs amid a budget and enrollment crisis. The SAUSD Board approved 262 layoffs as the district confronted declining enrollment and a substantial budget deficit. Hector Bustos explained that enrollment had fallen from more than 50,000 students to approximately 34,000 and said the district had to adjust to this financial reality. He also criticized Trustee Brenda Lebsack’s opposition to the layoffs, arguing that her vote should not be interpreted as support for educators because of her opposition to unions, alignment with charter-school interests, and record of criticizing the district’s transgender-inclusive policies. source
Social Media Links:
Bustos’ social media is full of posts uplifting the queer community, immigrant communities, and other marginalized people in the district. Find some examples here: May 22, 2026. March 12, 2025. December 7, 2024. November 7, 2024. October 20, 2024. June 4, 2024. June 1, 2024. May 31, 2024.
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
Gen-Z for Change
Alan Vargas (Immigration Activist)
Isuri S Ramos (Santa Ana City Councilmember, Ward 6)
Ada Breciño (Co President UNITE HERE Labor Union)
Benjamin Vazquez (Santa Ana City Councilmember, Ward 2)
Jessie Lopez (Santa Ana City Councilmember, Ward 3)
Valerie Magdaleno (SAUSD Board Trustee, Area 3)
Candidate’s Public Comments:
Bustos spoke at an October 2025 Santa Ana City Council meeting; “My name is Hector Bustos, and I proudly serve as the President of the Board of Education at Santa Ana Unified. Tonight, I’m speaking not only on behalf of myself, but on behalf of the thousands of students and families who call Santa Ana home - the same families who you represent, the same families who are now living in fear because of a recent surge of violent federal immigration enforcement in our community here in Santa Ana. We’ve heard the stories from our schools, children who are afraid to walk to school, parents who are scared to leave for work, families unsure if they’ll have a place to live next month because a parent who was the sole breadwinner of the family has been detained… These are not distant issues. These are the stories, the realities that our students are bringing into the classroom every single morning. At SAUSD, we have done our part and everything in our power to ensure that our schools remain safe havens for our students and community. We have clear district-wide protocols to prevent immigration enforcement from entering our campuses without proper legal documentation. We have trained our front office staff and educators on how to respond to immigration enforcement actions and how to protect the rights of the students and their families. We have reached over 10,000 community members through Know Your Rights workshops that we’ve done in collaboration with organizations like the Orange County Justice Fund and the Orange County Rapid Response Network. We’re partnering with local organizations to host food drives, and personally deliver groceries to families in need. We continue to offer virtual options for our students who may need to remain home due to fear or family hardship. We’re providing a multi-tiered system of support for the mental health needs of our students. And so in short - we’re doing our part as a school district. We’re working every day to shield our students from the fear and instability caused by this enforcement - but as much as we’re doing, we can’t do it alone. As you heard from our superintendent’s presentation earlier today, we’re deeply committed to providing high quality instruction and safe learning environments for our students, but we can’t expect our students to perform well academically when their parents are being torn away from them. And that’s why I’m here to urge you to expand funding for the Ayuda Sin Fronteras financial assistance program. Through this program, the city has already provided critical support to SAUSD families facing detention, job loss, and housing insecurity. Within our district alone, 67 applications were submitted, 49 were funded or withdrawn by the family themselves, and 18 went unfunded simply because the resources ran out. We still have 22 more families that we’ve identified that didn’t even get to apply because these funds have been exhausted - so, we ask you, and, and we beg, that you please expand the funds, that you provide more for our families that are in need, so that we can continue to support our children here in Santa Ana. Thank you.” source
When he voted for the censure of fellow SAUSD trustee Brenda Lebsack for repeatedly saying transphobic things from the dais, Bustos said, “It is well established that school boards have the inherent authority to control the decorum in order of their meetings and to uphold the integrity of board accepted governance and personnel policies. It is also well settled that school boards retain the right to dissociate themselves from the remarks of an individual board member, school boards are entitled to deplore the mechanism of censure to accomplish these ends”. source
During a February 2024 SAUSD school board meeting in which the board voted to fly the Pride Flag from district buildings during June, Hector said, “We can’t just celebrate our LGBTQ+ community during the month of June. We need to do more.” This is a reference to his efforts to ensure comprehensive policies creating a safe and inclusive environment for LGBTQ students in the district, such as the guidance provided to staff on how to support transgender and gender-non-conforming students. source
Endorsed by: (This is a partial list. Find his full list here)
LGBTQ Victory Fund (A national organization focused on supporting openly LGBTQ candidates for office)
Santa Ana Educators Association
CSEA, AFL-CIO (Union for Classified School District Employees)
CA Working Families Party
Orange County Democratic Party
Orange County Labor Federation
LA/OC Building Trades
LiUNA! Local 652
Orange County Young Democrats
Planned Parenthood
WAVE (Women for American Values and Ethics) - see FB post from 9/19/26
Supporters of Public Education (SOPE OC)
Lavender Democrats of Orange County
CAIR Action
Chispa
Tony Thurmond, CA Superintendent of Public Instruction
Vicente Sarmiento, OC Supervisor, District 2
Jessie Lopez, Santa Ana City Councilmember, Ward 3
Benjamin Vazquez, Santa Ana City Councilmember, Ward 2
Katelyn Brazer Aceves, SAUSD Trustee, Area 4
Valerie Magdaleno, SAUSD Trustee, Area 2
Supporters of Public Education
Orange County organization supporting public education and candidates committed to strong public schools.
Candidate in the News:
(Voice of OC) Santa Ana Unified School Board Lambasts Colleague for Transgender Remarks
(EdSource) Santa Ana to drop contested ethnic studies courses to settle closely watched lawsuit
(The Daily Pilot) Santa Ana Unified votes to fly the Pride flag from its district office
(Voice of OC) (opinion) Bustos: Policies Against the Poor—The Human Toll of the Orange County Board of Supervisors’ Decision to Put Money First
(The Daily Pilot) Santa Ana Unified trustees approve 262 layoffs, including teachers and counselors
(Voice of OC) Santa Ana School District Settles Lawsuit Over Alleged Antisemitic Classes
(OCDE Newsroom) Dr. Lorraine M. Perez named next superintendent of Santa Ana Unified School District
Public Voting Record: (This is an incomplete list, his other votes can be found throughout his guide page above. Some of the votes described earlier we struggled to find the exact dates and resolutions to reference, due in part to the prolific voter history he has).
(February 14, 2023) Voted YES on Board adoption of Resolution No. 22/23-3491 - Acknowledging Ancestral Land of Indigenous People. This passed, and now SAUSD board meetings all begin with a land acknowledgement. source
(May 9, 2023) Voted YES on Board Policy 5145.31 - Transgender, Non-Binary, and Gender Nonconforming Students. This 8-page policy document lists its scope as “The purpose of this Board Policy is to provide District staff guidelines regarding issues related to transgender, non-binary, and gender nonconforming students. The Governing Board is committed to addressing the safety needs of all students, including those needs related to a student's actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. The Board recognizes that a safe and supportive environment is necessary for students to have equal access to all school programs and activities which is integral to student success. The Board acknowledges its role in providing students with an understanding of and respect for differences in the gender identity and gender expression of others.” Read the policy in full here. Vote source
(Jun 13, 2023) Voted YES on Approval of New Job Description: School-Based Mental Health Specialist I. This is one of several mental/behavioral health staffing increases Bustos has voted yes on during his term. Source
Follow the Money: Bustos has a large number of small-value donations filed. Here’s some of the larger ones - Hector Bustos for School Board 2026 FPPC ID: 1448990
$2000 from International Union of Painters and Allied Trades Political Action Together Political Committee
$1000 from Lavender Democrats
$1000 from Sheet Metal, Air, Rail, Transportation Workers’ International Union (S.M.A.R.T.) Local 105 PAC
$500 from Sprinkler Fitters Local 709 PAC Small Contributor Committee
$1,000 from Southern California Pipe Trades District Council #16
$1,500 from STEAMFITTERS & REFRIGERATION U.A. LOCAL 250 PAC
$100 from Valerie Magdaleno (fellow trustee on the board)
$517.80 from Jesus Bustos (presumably a family member)
$103.80 from Felicity Figueroa (activist in OC involved in immigration justice, LGBTQ+ rights, etc)
$2,500 from Laborers International Union of North America / Laborers Local 652
$1,000 from Leadership for Educational Equity (LEE) California General Purpose Committee
$250 from Katelyn Aceves (fellow trustee on the board)
$500 from Planned Parenthood of Orange and San Bernardino Counties’ Community Action Fund PAC
$250 from EducateUS
$250 from Building a Stronger West sponsored by Western States Regional Council of Carpenters
$259.05 from Bulmaro Vicente (Policy Director with Chispa)
$1036.85 YTD from Janelle McLoughlin (Retired)
$519.05 from Adam Overton, Community Organizer with CLUE
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Santa Ana USD Area 5 Trustee Candidate, 4 year term
Challenging Incumbent Hector Bustos
“ALEJANDRA RODRIGUEZ | Mother
I'm Alejandra Rodriguez, running for the Santa Ana Unified School District Board of Education, Trustee Area 5, because every child deserves the opportunity to succeed, every parent deserves to be heard, and every school deserves strong, transparent leadership.
I am a Santa Ana native who attended Washington Elementary, McFadden Institute of Technology, MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate, and Saddleback High School. I have children attending SAUSD schools, giving me experience as both a former student and a parent.
I have been involved in my children’s education through the School Site Council, PBIS, the Community School Council, the PTO, and school committees. These roles have allowed me to listen to families, work with educators, and understand our schools’ needs.
I have served as a City of Santa Ana Commissioner for Historic Resources and Parks and Recreation and as a Neighborhood Association leader.
As your trustee, I will focus on improving reading, writing, and math, supporting teachers, keeping schools safe, and preparing students for college, careers, and life. I will advocate for students with disabilities and their families.
Santa Ana is my home, and our children deserve leadership that puts students first and works with families.
I respectfully ask for your vote.
Email: Alejandra4SAUSD@gmail.com
Campaign Website: http://alejandra4sausd.com/
On her campaign website, she leads with, “Are our kids actually learning? Who gets to raise your child? Where is the money going? Santa Ana deserves real answers. Alejandra is running to get them.” https://www.alejandra4sausd.com/
On her Issues page, she has most of what Sylvia Iglesias’ page on student performance. She uses one of the bar graphs on Iglesias’ page, which compares the proficiency rates for reading and math from 2015 to 2025 (except 2020-21 due to the COVID pandemic). She admits that test scores have improved but are unacceptable. This is the text above the graph:
“These numbers should alarm every parent, taxpayer, and community member. A large share of our students are below grade level—not because they can’t succeed, but because the system is failing them.
Year after year, this district has allowed unacceptable outcomes to continue, and our children are paying the price. This is not a minor issue or a temporary setback; it is a crisis.
We cannot afford more excuses, delays, or half-measures. It is time for decisive leadership, real accountability, and immediate action to ensure every student gets the education they deserve.” https://www.alejandra4sausd.com/issues
Priorities:
Parental Rights ”Your family. Your values. Your child. But somewhere along the way, Santa Ana schools started making decisions about your kids without telling you. Counseling your child was placed in without your knowledge. Library books you'd never approve. Curriculum you never agreed to. Alejandra believes the answer to 'who gets to raise your child?' should always be you. She'll fight to restore full parental notification, real opt-out rights, and a district that answers to families, not the other way around.”
Academic Excellence “Parents deserve a straight answer: are our kids actually learning? Not just passing. Not just moving on to the next grade. Learning. Alejandra's commitment to academic excellence starts with holding schools accountable to that question, and building the conditions, resources, and leadership that make the answer 'yes.'”
Fiscal Responsibility “SAUSD's budget has more than doubled in ten years, from $432 million in 2014 to $913 million in 2025. That's a 111% increase. So why are class sizes growing? Why are Santa Ana students falling further behind in math and reading, not catching up? The money is there. The results aren't. Alejandra believes every family in this district deserves an honest answer to one question: where is the money going? She'll demand full budget transparency, accountability for outcomes, and a district that proves every dollar is reaching the classroom, not disappearing into administration.”
Any Other Interesting Info:
Alejandra is running openly on her support of forced outing policies, the ability for parents to block schools from teaching students state-approved curriculum, and other conservative, anti-LGBTQ dogwhistle issues.
Alejandra is openly in support of book bans, an issue that has been orchestrated at SAUSD by current SAUSD and Heritage Foundation speaker, Brenda Lebsack. Read more about Brenda here.
Has children at 3 different SAUSD schools.
Served as a parks and Recreation Commissioner, appointed by Santa Ana Councilmember Jonathan Ryan Penaloza in 2025. The Commission has now been dissolved. source
AKA Alee Rodriguez
Social Media Links:
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
Sylvia Iglesias (Secretary of La La Unión de Padres, the Spanish-language, Latino-focused organization tied to California Policy Center’s Parents’ Union. This is an explicitly anti-LGBTQ group).
Robert Garcia (Congressman)
Phil Bacerra (Santa Ana City Councilember)
Valerie Amezcua (Santa Ana Mayor)
Candidate’s Public Comments:
““I am the only candidate in this race with kids in our schools.”” https://www.alejandra4sausd.com/
“I know what it feels like to trust our schools with our children, and I know how important it is that families feel heard.”” https://www.alejandra4sausd.com/
Endorsed by:
Nancy’s Picks - Nancy’s Picks (far-right voter guide in Orange County, whose criteria for endorsement include “PRO-LIFE & PROTECTIONS for the UNBORN”, “PRO-SANCTITY of HETEROSEXUAL MARRIAGE”, “PRO-PARENTAL RIGHTS in EDUCATION”, “PRO-NUCLEAR FAMILY”, “SUPPORT FOR ISRAEL and IT’S RIGHT to EXIST”, “SECURE & SEAL OUR BORDERS”, and more.
Reform California - (far-right organization led by Carl DeMaio)
Sylvia Iglesias, 2026 Candidate for SAUSD Board, Area 4
Note: Sylvia Iglesias serves as Secretary of La Unión de Padres, the parental-rights and school-choice organization led by her sister, Cecilia “Ceci” Iglesias. Brenda Lebsack has also participated in La Unión de Padres activities; Cecilia Iglesias publicly thanked Lebsack for participating in the organization’s 2025 Orange County Charter Schools Parent of the Year event. Thus, Rodriguez’s endorsement by Sylvia Iglesias provides an identifiable connection to the same parental-rights advocacy network that has included Lebsack. Rodriguez’s own campaign likewise makes “Parental Rights” one of its three core priorities.
Santa Ana Mayor Valerie Amezcua (see FB post on August 25th of Valerie Amezcua Mayor of Santa Ana)
Candidate in the News: None Found
Public Voting Record: None Found
Follow the Money: Rodriguez for SAUSD School Board 2026 FPPC ID: 1490934
09/19/26, $2000 from Orange County Advocates for Great Public Schools, sponsored by California Charter Schools Association Advocates F497P2
This is a conservative PAC focused on charter school advocacy that focuses their contributions on right-wing candidates.
This organization also donated to the Sylvia Iglesias campaign.
$2,500 from Santa Ana Police Officers Association Political Action Committee
Tustin Unified School District
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Tustin USD Area 3 Trustee Candidate
“KELLY FELTON | Educator/Professor/Parent
As a parent, educator, and scientist, I am running for the Tustin Unified School District Board of Education to ensure every student receives an outstanding education in a safe, supportive, and
academically focused environment.
My husband and I raised our two sons in public schools, and I understand firsthand the importance of strong schools and engaged families. I hold a doctorate in education and two master's degrees in science, and have spent more than 20 years teaching science at the college and high school levels.
From cancer research labs to biotechnology classrooms, I know the value of critical thinking, evidence-based decision-making, and preparing students for success in college, careers, and life.
As a Board member, I will keep students at the center of every decision, promote academic excellence, ensure fiscal responsibility and transparency, and strengthen partnerships with parents. I will support career technical education, arts, music, and athletics, plan for declining enrollment and aging schools, and protect taxpayer resources.
I will bring practical leadership, put students first, and preserve the district our community is proud of. I would be honored to serve.
Dr. Kelly Felton | www.feltonforschoolboard.com”
Email: None found
Campaign Website: https://feltonforschoolboard.com/
In her “biography”, it says, “She supports strong extracurricular programs, biology-based science education, and the teaching of accurate history — free from political agendas.”
Priorities:
Ensure Budget Accountability
Increase Parent & Community Engagement
School Safety
Any Other Interesting Info:
Kelly ran for this same seat in 2022 but lost with a 15 point margin against incumbent Lynn Davis. Source
In 2022, Felton posted a call to action for the TUSD school board meeting on October 10th, asking for opposition to state law that allows trans students to participate in school sports on the teams that match their gender. source
Kelly, as a private citizen, was behind the efforts to implement a Forced Outing policy in Tustin USD in 2023, which did not get past the board. source
Kelly is involved in the California Parents’ Union, an offshoot of the California Family Council. CFC is the main anti-LGBTQ organization in California, and is probably best well-known for their leadership of the Prop 8 campaign in 2008 to ban gay marriage in the state. She has posted about her involvement with the group on social media multiple times, and openly recruits for their team.
Felton’s career in higher education spans nearly 17 years, with experience as adjunct faculty in multiple schools, including National University and California Baptist University. She does not have a PhD, but does have an Ed.D in Education Leadership and a Masters in Molecular Biology and Immunology. Source
She participated in the North Tustin Area Republican Women candidate forum in March 2026 source
In August 2024, Kelly liked a post from extremist instagram page “RecallTUSD”. (This page has, among other things, made posts targeting and outing trans faculty members in the district). The post in question misidentified Olympic boxer and cisgender woman Imane Khelif as a trans woman and pushed for the exclusion of trans women from sports. The caption said, in part, “Title IX helped give girls equality and now woke policies take it away”. source
Social Media Links:
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
Pride at the Pier (We believe this is for tracking purposes, as she’s screenshotted our posts about Tustin USD and shared them with oppositional language on her socials)
Joseph Komrosky, TVUSD Trustee who sought to remove Harvey Milk from school curriculum
Andy Falco-Jimenez, local far-right podcaster
Sonja Shaw, anti-lgbtq extremist and CVUSD board president
Leandra Blades, openly anti-LGBTQ board member of PYLUSD
California Family Council, extremist anti-LGBTQ organization known for its leadership in the 2008 effort to ban gay marriage in CA
Jessica Tapia, SoCal anti-LGBTQ activist
Jack Hibbs, lead pastor at Calvary Chapel Chino Hills and far-right political operative
Erin Friday, SoCal anti-LGBTQ activist
Patty Cabada, SoCal anti-LGBTQ activist
Bill Essayli, US Attorney for the Trump administration known for pursuing non-violent protesters for federal charges, fmr. State Assemblyman, and anti-trans extremist
Madison Miner, chair of the Orange County chapter of Moms for Liberty
Karen England, professional book-banning activist
Gays Against Groomers, astro-turfed anti-LGBTQ extremist group
Matt Walsh, anti-LGBTQ extremist
Candidate’s Public Comments:
At the October 9th, 2023, Tustin USD school board meeting, Kelly said in her public comments to the board, “Social transitioning of children with gender dysphoria without parental knowledge is unacceptable. Why are you in this position? The majority of your constituents don’t agree with the secret gender policy and want to see a parental rights policy implemented. There are lawsuits now that show that secret gender policies will not hold up in court. (...) You do not care about the safety, emotional stability, and development of our children”. For clarity, the ‘social transitioning’ Kelly spoke about refers to using the name and pronouns a student requests, which she considers ‘secret gender policies’. At this time, there have not been any successful lawsuits requiring teachers and faculty to misgender their trans students in California. Studies consistently show that supporting trans students in their name and gender is beneficial to their safety, emotional stability, and development.
On October 1st, 2022, Felton posted on her instagram in opposition to Congressional Democrats voting against forced outing policies, saying, “I believe parents are the primary educators of their children. No parent should be left in the dark when it comes to medical decisions for their children. No one can take these rights away!!! When you vote for Kelly Felton, you are electing a watchdog, mamabear that will inform all parents of legislature and how we can protect our kids from policies that hurt families.” (This is a direct quote, we did not adjust the grammar here).
On July 22nd, 2022, Felton posted on her instagram, “It is my duty as a parent to research and question everything for the sake of my children; not blindly trust. Doctors are not the authority, teachers are not the authority, the government is not the authority. I am.”
Kelly ran for TUSD in 2022 as well. In her candidate statement she said, “Parents are the primary educators of their children and should maintain all rights to decide when, where, and how their children will be educated. Sex education should be biology-led, and parents should be able to opt-in, not opt-out for sex ed instruction. I believe in teaching accurate historical events but do not support critical race theory or social justice as educational tools in the K-12 curriculum.” You can read the full 2022 statement here.
Felton commented on a post from extremist instagram page “RecallTUSD”. (This page has, among other things, made posts targeting and outing trans faculty members in the district) The post was about the inclusion of the book “The Bluest Eye” by Toni Morrison in AP Literature classes at Foothill and Tustin High. This book has been targeted by book banning efforts for years, as it includes content about child r*pe and incest. Felton commented, “Parents should be well aware of what their kids are reading. This book is triggering for anyone who has lived through the trauma, insensitive to those who are involved, and inappropriate for the innocent minds that could never fathom being in the situation in the first place. Shame on TUSD for supporting this smut book! Parents beware!” source
Felton responded to the OC Register’s candidate questionnaire.
Question: “How do you believe schools can better teach or engage students in civil discourse? How would you like to see your district tackle this issue? (Please answer in 200 words or fewer.)”
Answer: “Kids learn to disagree respectfully by practicing it, not by being told to. In science class, we argue about evidence all the time, and students pick up pretty fast that changing your mind when the facts point the other way is a good thing.
That carries over to other subjects. Debate, mock trial, student government, and class discussions all give kids a chance to disagree with someone and still be friends afterward. I would like to see more of that in regular classes, with clear rules for how discussions work and training for teachers so they feel comfortable leading conversations on tough topics instead of steering around them.
I want students to learn three things: find out where information came from, be able to explain the other side fairly, and go after the idea, not the person. Those same habits help them sort out what is true online.
The board matters here, too. Kids pay attention to how adults act. If our board meetings show people disagreeing respectfully, that teaches something. If they do not, no lesson plan is going to fix it.”
Question: “How do you feel artificial intelligence is, or isn’t, safe in the classroom? In what instances should it be expanded in the classroom? What about when it should be limited? (Please answer in 200 words or fewer.)”
Answer: “AI is already in our schools, whether anyone planned for it or not. Before we talk about adding more, I would like to know how much time our kids already spend on screens every day. We handed out a lot of devices quickly and never really stepped back to look at what that did.
AI can be helpful, especially for teachers. It can save time putting together lesson materials, and that is time they can spend with students.
The worry for students is that it does the thinking for them. That matters most for younger kids who are still learning to read, write, and figure things out on their own, so I would keep it very limited in the early grades.
Teachers should be trained on it before it is used more widely. Older students should learn that AI gets things wrong and can sound very sure of itself when it does. And student information needs to be protected, with a real person, not a program, making decisions about grades, discipline, and anything on a student’s record.”
Endorsed by:
Nancy’s Picks - Nancy’s Picks (far-right voter guide in Orange County, whose criteria for endorsement include “PRO-LIFE & PROTECTIONS for the UNBORN”, “PRO-SANCTITY of HETEROSEXUAL MARRIAGE”, “PRO-PARENTAL RIGHTS in EDUCATION”, “PRO-NUCLEAR FAMILY”, “SUPPORT FOR ISRAEL and IT’S RIGHT to EXIST”, “SECURE & SEAL OUR BORDERS”, and more.
Reform California - (far-right organization led by Carl DeMaio)
Madison Miner, (Chair, Moms for Liberty’s Orange County Chapter. Her public positions and endorsements are posted at her Instagram social media site madison4oc. Madison Miner won an Orange Unified school board seat in 2022. Voters recalled her in 2024. The L. A. Times reported that Miner was one of two conservative board members who had spearheaded policies widely opposed by advocates for LGBTQ+ youth in a recall election viewed as a local bellwether for the culture wars in education.)
Mari Barke, OC Board of Education Trustee and Director at California Family Council
Will O’Neill, Fmr. Newport Beach Mayor and OCGOP Chairman
Kathy Copeland, Tustin USD Trustee who won with the endorsement and funding of anti-LGBTQ organization California Family Council in 2022
Ryan Gallagher, Tustin City Council Member
Austin Lumbard, Tustin Mayor
Tim Shaw, OC Board of Education Trustee with anti-LGBTQ voting record
Lisa Sparks, OC Board of Education Trustee with anti-LGBTQ voting record
Jorge Valdes, OC Board of Education Trustee with anti-LGBTQ voting record
Ken Williams, OC Board of Education Trustee with anti-LGBTQ voting record
Lincoln Club of Orange County
Orange County GOP
Candidate in the News:
(2022 Calmatters) Back to school: California Republicans bet big on local board races
(2026 OC Register) Kelly Felton, Tustin Unified School District Area 3 candidate, 2026 election questionnaire
Public Voting Record:
Felton has not served in an elected seat at this time.
$1,000 from Kathy Copeland, current Tustin USD trustee with California Family Council connections
$250 from Ryan Gallagher, Tustin City Councilmember
$100 from Rhonda Shader, candidate for State Senate out of Placentia
$2,500 from Lisa Vandorpe, a major funder of anti-LGBTQ+ candidates in Orange County. She’s contributed $23,000 to local anti-LGBTQ+ candidates in the last 4 years
$5,000 from Orange County Charter Advocates for Great Public Schools PAC, a conservative PAC focused on charter school advocacy that focuses their contributions on right-wing candidates.
$3,500 from The Lincoln Club of Orange County State PAC, a conservative anti-LGBTQ group.
$250 from Jorge Valdes, current OC Board of Education trustee with a consistently anti-LGBTQ voter record.
$1,000 from Wayne Lindholm, president of the Lincoln Club of OC
$200 from Amy Connelly, anti-LGBTQ activist in Tustin
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Tustin USD Area 3 Trustee Candidate
“LYNN DAVIS | Governing Board Member, Tustin Unified School District Trustee Area 3
Education: Harvard MBA, BA Mathematics Claremont McKenna College
As a school board member, I have successfully advocated for fundamentals – quality phonics-based reading instruction, rigorous standards in math and science, practical support for classroom teachers and hands-on Career Technical Education that prepares students both for college and well-paying careers.
A past corporate CFO, fiscal responsibility matters. As Board President, I’ve led bond refinancings saving local taxpayers over $48 million - dollars you won't be paying! We earned an upgraded rating from Moody’s.
The independent website Niche.com ranks TUSD in the Top 4.2% of over 10,000 districts nationwide. We’ve had 17 California Distinguished School awards in the past five years. The independent Education Scorecard report from Stanford placed TUSD in the Top 20% nationwide in overall student achievement, Top 10% in Academic Growth, found students learning math faster than 90% of other districts and low-income students among the fastest improving academically. Over 70% of our graduates are prepared for four-year colleges, giving them control over their futures.
In challenging times our schools need proven leaders with vision and results. Thank you for your support over the years! Re-elect Lynn Davis to protect taxpayers, maintain safe schools and support increasing excellence in our school district.”
Email: LynnDavisforTUSD@gmail.com
Campaign Website: https://lynndavisfortusd.com/
His website leads with this paragraph, “Great schools aren’t created overnight. They’re built year after year through thoughtful leadership, sound financial decisions, excellent teachers and a community working together. School board stability is vital for building and improving strong neighborhood schools.”
His website also highlights a photo he took at a Tustin USD resource fair with TUSD trustee Jonathan Abelove, Democrat Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris, and TUSD trustee Jonathan Stone.
Priorities: (While not listed in bullet-point format, these are taken from his website)
Quality phonics-based reading instruction
Rigorous standards in math and science
Practical support for classroom teachers
Hands-on Career Technical Education that prepares students both for college and well-paying careers
Any Other Interesting Info:
Davis is currently the incumbent for Trustee Area #3, and the TUSD board president.
Lynn Davis faced a recall effort in the 2021-2022 school year from area conservatives, who wanted to recall him for, as the complaint said, “the teaching of CRT – a teaching practice that promotes racial based division aroung students.” (misspelling original to the complaint). The recall effort did not make it to the ballot, as the required petition signatures were not submitted by the deadline. Source source
When a Tustin-area constituent placed an item on the TUSD board meeting agenda in late 2025 to push for the exclusion of trans girls in school sports, Lynn Davis abstained from voting. He did not make any comments from the dais about the agenda item prior to his abstention vote. source
In 2023, another anti-LGBTQ constituent led an effort to try and push for the implementation of forced outing policies in TUSD. Davis did not comment on the trans community that would be impacted by such a policy, but did express disapproval for the negative characterization of educators by some of the supporters of the policy. source
Davis has been serving on the TUSD board for multiple generations of students - he was first elected in 2002.
Davis also served on the board of directors for The Prentice School, an Orange County private school geared towards students with language-based learning disabilities and challenges, such as dyslexia and ADHD. Davis was on the board from 2001 to 2013.
Davis, along with the other members of the TUSD board, was represented in a letter from the district to the OC Grand Jury regarding AI implementation and policies in TUSD schools, wherein it was confirmed that TUSD is encouraging district teachers and faculty to implement AI. Read the full letter to the Grand Jury here for further context. Signing off on this letter and the recommendations from the Grand Jury would have been approved during a consent calendar vote in a TUSD meeting. There generally isn’t discussion on consent calendar votes.
Social Media Links:
His personal facebook has a cover photo that says, “I’m with Ukraine”, with a Ukrainian flag in a heart.
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
Austin Lumbard, Tustin Mayor
John Cleese, actor and comedian who has faced criticism from the trans community in recent years over his support for JK Rowling - although many people outside of the trans community don’t know that about Cleese.
Andrea Yamasaki, OUSD Trustee who has been openly supportive of the trans community
Latter-day Saints for Democracy
Progressive Mormon Teachings
Sikh Center of Orange County
Donald J. Trump
Unfundamentalist
Tustin Educators Association
Joe Biden (archived)
Ana Page, OUSD Trustee who has been openly supportive of the trans community
Jonathan Stone, TUSD Trustee who has been openly supportive of the trans community
Gavin Newsom
Connor Traut, Buena Park Councilmember
Don Wagner, Orange County Supervisor
Todd Spitzer, Orange County District Attorney
Interfaith Youth Alliance
GOPocalypse (“Relentlessly Resisting Republicans since 2012”)
Candidate’s Public Comments:
During the October 9, 2023 TUSD meeting, when anti-LGBTQ activists organized to push for forced outing policies to be implemented in TUSD, Davis responded with disapproval towards the public commenters who were suggesting that teachers were indoctrinating kids, that they couldn’t be trusted, or that they were groomers. He said, “...I am still stunned at the number of speakers earlier who chose to repeat big lies about teachers. My grandmother was a teacher, many of my family members are teachers, many of us have family members who are, or were, teachers. Almost everybody who is a parent knows teachers, respects teachers, knows the sacrifices that they’ve made…and for anybody to think that the way to persuade others to support a policy that you favor is to tell big lies, falsehoods, about the people who are at the core of our profession, of our organization…. It’s just stunning to me. That’s my comment.” He ended his comment there. source
Davis responded to the OC Register’s candidate questionnaire.
Question: “How do you feel artificial intelligence is, or isn’t, safe in the classroom? In what instances should it be expanded in the classroom? What about when it should be limited? (Please answer in 200 words or fewer.)”
Answer: “IBM’s supercomputer Watson beat Ken Jennings and Brad Rutter on Jeopardy. IBM’s Deep Blue defeated chess world champion Garry Kasparov. But this was not the end of the story. Today, chess players who are less capable than Grand Masters yet expert users of AI systems win tournaments against both the best humans and the best computers by combining machine speed and human strategies. In the future, well-trained, hard-working TUSD graduates will regularly use AI systems to help them become winners in many endeavors.
David Brooks has said that the winners in the age of artificial intelligence will prevail by gaining the same habits of mind and character that have led to thriving in the past, namely to value hard work, want to build their knowledge and capabilities, valuing self-restraint, self-reliance, trustworthiness, gratitude, contributing to the well-being of others and respecting the dignity and worth of all people. Modeling and teaching these habits and values will continue to serve students well.
Artificial intelligence speeds medical therapies that save lives, and it can help kill people. Students already use it for assignments. We train young drivers to drive safely. We must and will train students in the safe use of AI.”
Question: How do you believe schools can better teach or engage students in civil discourse? How would you like to see your district tackle this issue? (Please answer in 200 words or fewer.)
Answer: “The key to civil discourse is understanding that each person is worthy of our respect and of value regardless of differences of opinion or cultural differences. Another key is curiosity about the other person and what it is that leads them to think differently.
Our students practice civil discourse every day as their teachers lead them in conversations about subjects from the book they are reading to history to science to language to mathematics. Public schools should model civil discourse for students all the time.
Civil discourse and respect for each person also need to be modeled in each home and in other public arenas if we want our students to understand it as the norm. Welcoming all is a great first step to civil discourse.
It is important that each child in our community knows that they are welcome at Tustin Unified schools, and that we will help them to grow and thrive, learn and succeed in becoming the adult they are meant to become – to live their best life.”
Endorsed by:
Tustin Educators Association
Congressman Dave Min (D)
Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris (D)
Tustin USD Trustee Allyson Damikolas (proven voter record of LGBTQ+ advocacy)
Tustin USD Trustee Jonathan Stone (proven voter record of LGBTQ+ advocacy)
Tustin USD Trustee Jonathan Abelove (proven voter record of LGBTQ+ advocacy)
Retired Tustin USD Trustee James Laird
Orange County Labor Federation
Candidate in the News:
(OC Register 2026) Lynn Davis, Tustin Unified School District Area 3 candidate, 2026 election questionnaire
(OC Register 2014) Abelove and Davis clinch school board win in Tustin
(OC Register 2011) Board members sworn in for new year
(OC Register 2014) Two incumbents begin new terms on Tustin school board
Public Voting Record: No votes on LGBTQ+ issues or other marginalized community members to note.
Contributions made by Lynn Davis:
$3,500 to the 2024 Campaign for Jonathan Stone for TUSD Trustee (two separate transactions)
$500 to 2024 Campaign for Allyson Muniz Damikolas for TUSD Trustee
$100 made to the campaign for Connor Traut for OC Supervisor in 2025
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Tustin USD Area 5 Trustee Candidate
“JONATHAN ABELOVE | Governing Board Member, Tustin Unified School District, Trustee Area 5
As a longtime Tustin Unified Trustee, I've helped guide our students to some of the strongest results of any school district in California: a 97% graduation rate, faster learning gains than the state average, and reading and math scores among the top 20% in the nation.
I'm leading our expanding workforce and career pathways so every graduate leaves ready for what's next. I also worked with my colleagues to save taxpayers over $48 million through smart bond restructuring, and championed districtwide modernization, ensuring Tustin Unified schools benefit from upgraded classrooms, new facilities, and enhanced safety and security features.
I believe strong schools are built through partnership, which is why my service to Tustin doesn't stop at the dais. I serve as President of Tustin Scholarships and Executive Vice President of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Tustin, working alongside educators, staff, and families every day.
It's also why I'm proud to carry the sole endorsement of the Tustin Educators Association, representing our classroom teachers, along with support from local leaders like Congressman Dave Min, Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris, former Tustin Mayor Letitia Clark, and dozens more.
I'm running for re-election to keep this momentum going for every Tustin Unified student, and I look forward to earning your vote on or before November 3, 2026.
Learn more at www.Abelovefortusd.com.”
Email: abelovetusd@gmail.com
Campaign Website: https://www.abelovefortusd.com/
Jonathan’s website leads with his slogan, “Fighting for a better TOMORROW. Join our campaign for the future of Tustin families!”
Priorities:
Not listed on his campaign website
Any Other Interesting Info:
Jonathan attended a summer 2026 OC fundraiser held to support the Christopher Street Project, the nation’s only trans rights PAC that works to build a more trans-friendly Congress.
Jonathan is on the Board of Directors for the Tustin Area Council for Fine Arts. source
Jonathan is the President of the Board of Directors for Tustin Scholarships. Source
Abelove is the longest serving member of the Tustin USD Board, having first been elected in 1994.
He is an alum of both Penn State University (BS, Industrial and Organizational Psychology) and John Hopkins University (MS, Coursework Administrative Science).
He is on the Chief’s Advisory Board with the Tustin Police Department, and is a member of both the local rotary club and the League of Women Voters.
Abelove, along with the other members of the TUSD board, was represented in a letter from the district to the OC Grand Jury regarding AI implementation and policies in TUSD schools, wherein it was confirmed that TUSD is encouraging district teachers and faculty to implement AI. Read the full letter to the Grand Jury here for further context. Signing off on this letter and the recommendations from the Grand Jury would have been approved during a consent calendar vote in a TUSD meeting. There generally isn’t discussion on consent calendar votes.
Social Media Links:
Abelove posted on his campaign Instagram on September 17th, “Laurie and I are so excited to attend Heritage Night. Last year we enjoyed eating our way around the world and learning about the countries they originated from. This year an anonymous school source said it will be bigger and better than last year. If you’re coming, come hungry!” Countries represented: Australia, Mexico, China, Thailand, Philippines, India, Taiwan, Vietnam, Israel, Germany, Poland, England, Lebanon, Egypt, Palestine, Iran, Yemen and Multi-cultural table.
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
Allyson Muñiz Damikolas, TUSD Trustee who has been supportive of LGBTQ+ rights
WAVE, a progressive group supportive of LGBTQ+ rights
Vicente Sarmiento, OC Supervisor who has voted in allyship of LGBTQ+ rights
Elect Good People, a political organization supporting down-ballot Democratic candidates
Jonathan Stone, TUSD Trustee who has been supportive of LGBTQ+ rights
Candidate’s Public Comments:
Jonathan responded to the OC Register’s 2026 candidate questionnaire.
Question: How do you feel artificial intelligence is, or isn’t, safe in the classroom? In what instances should it be expanded in the classroom? What about when it should be limited? (Please answer in 200 words or fewer.)
Answer: “AI is a tool, and like any tool, it’s safe when it supports learning and a problem when it replaces it. It has real value in helping teachers personalize instruction, catch a student who’s falling behind before a test shows it, and cut down on administrative work that pulls teachers away from students. That’s where I’d expand it. Where I’d limit it is anywhere it substitutes for a student actually doing the thinking and writing themselves, especially in early literacy and math, where struggling through a problem is the point.
It also needs real boundaries around student data privacy. This isn’t something that should be decided classroom by classroom. The board needs a clear policy that gives teachers guardrails and gives parents confidence that we know exactly how it’s being used with their kids.”
Question: How do you believe schools can better teach or engage students in civil discourse? How would you like to see your district tackle this issue? (Please answer in 200 words or fewer.)
Answer: “I’ve been a father and a board member for over 30 years now, and both roles taught me the same lesson: Kids learn how to disagree by watching how the adults around them handle it. Civil discourse is healthy, and I want our students engaging with hard topics, not avoiding them. But healthy discourse depends on students being able to tell the difference between fact and opinion, and between a credible source and noise. That’s a skill we have to teach directly, not assume kids will pick up on their own. I’d like to see our district build that into how we teach media literacy and critical thinking from an early age, so students are equipped to evaluate what they’re hearing before they form an opinion on it.
And the board has a responsibility to model it ourselves. When our own meetings and our own disagreements with other elected bodies stay grounded in facts and mutual respect, we’re teaching a lesson too. That’s the kind of steady, experienced leadership this board needs: People who’ve been in the room long enough to know the difference between a real debate and a manufactured one.”
Endorsed by:
Dave Min (United States Congressman (CA-45))
Cottie Petrie-Norris (California State Assemblymember)
ORANGE COUNTY LABOR FEDERATION
Vicente Sarmiento (Orange County Supervisor)
Dr. Letitia Clark (Tustin Mayor & Councilmember (Fmr.))
Melinda Liu (Irvine City Councilmember)
Lee Fink (Tustin City Councilmember)
Barry W. Cooper (Tustin Mayor, Pro Tem (Fmr.))
Allyson Damikolas (Tustin Unified School Board Member)
Lynn Davis (Tustin Unified School Board Member)
Jonathan Stone (Tustin Unified School Board Member)
TyRon Jackson, Founder and CEO, Operation Warm Wishes*
Soledad Rivera, Tustin Community Leader, and Community Relations Director, Cal Optima Health*
Kristin Simpkins, Former President and Dino Dash Chairperson, Tustin Public Schools Foundation (TPSF)*
*Titles for Identification Purposes Only
Candidate in the News:
(OC Register 2026) Jonathan Abelove, Tustin Unified School District Area 5 candidate, 2026 election questionnaire
(OC Register 2012) TUSD board elects this year’s president
(OC Register 2014) Abelove and Davis clinch school board win in Tustin
(OCDE Newsroom 2015) Tustin school district unveils new Humanities Building at Beckman High School
Public Voting Record: No votes on LGBTQ+ issues or other marginalized community members to note.
No contributions for his 2026 Campaign yet publicly available
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Tustin USD Area 5 Trustee Candidate
“ZIGGY MCBRIDE | Educator/Librarian/Parent
I am running for the Tustin Unified School District Board of Education because every decision should begin with one question:
What is best for students?
For more than seven years I have served TUSD as a Library Media Technician and Literacy Specialist, helping students develop a love of reading, strengthen critical thinking, and build confidence. By modernizing library programs, leading family literacy initiatives, and supporting parents, I have seen firsthand how strong public schools change lives.
My experience also includes securing grants, managing budgets, coordinating volunteers, directing youth camps, and building community partnerships. These roles have prepared me to make thoughtful, responsible decisions that support students, educators, and families.
As a Board member I will keep students at the center of every decision, support our teachers and staff, promote academic excellence and be responsible with fiscal stewardship. I will work
to strengthen parent partnerships, and ensure transparency, open communication, safe schools, and balanced technology use.
Tustin Unified is exceptional because of its outstanding students, dedicated educators, and engaged families. I would be honored to help our district continue to thrive for generations to come.
Learn more at www.ziggyforschoolboard.com”
Email: None Found
Campaign Website: https://ziggyforschoolboard.com/
Ziggy’s website places transphobic dog whistles front and center in the section on “Fairness in Girls’ Sports”, saying, “...I will work to ensure athletic opportunities are protected for all students — preserving the integrity of both boys' and girls' sports in Tustin Unified schools.”
Priorities:
Fairness in Girls’ Sports
School choice for families
School Safety
Any Other Interesting Info:
Ziggy was named Classified Employee of the year in 2018 for Beswick Elementary School in TUSD. There were 25 other honorees across the district that year. source
Her campaign website says that she was “named Tustin Unified's 2026 Classified Employee of the Year”. She was among 30 honorees to be given that title across the district. source
McBride is an Elementary Library Media Technician within TUSD. In California, this role requires a K-12 teaching credential, as well as a Teacher Librarian Services Credential. It does not require a specific Master’s degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS), as a full, professional Librarian needs. A K-12 teaching credential in California is separate from a bachelor’s degree. The minimum education requirement to be a LMT in Tustin USD is a high school diploma or equivalent. We were not able to find McBride’s Linkedin or any other information about her educational background, and so have been unable to verify what her highest level of education is.
Ziggy has homeschooled her own two children.
Ziggy is a member of the Church of Jesus Christ in Orange, Santa Ana, Tustin, a Mormon congregation, where she was thanked on their social media for her involvement in youth programming over the last 15 years. She mentions in her candidate questionnaire that she co-directs “Hero Camp”, a summer camp serving more than 100 children - that camp is the faith-based youth programming for that church. We are not sharing the source for this social media post, as the faces of minors are visible in that content.
Social Media Links:
Ziggy posted on September 25th on her campaign instagram, stating “Jonathan Abelove voted YES on the policy that lets boys compete in girls’ sports. 5-0. No discussion”. FACT CHECK: California state law dictates that transgender students are legally allowed to access school sports that align with their gender, and school boards do not have the legal ability to challenge state law. This is not Abelove’s policy, it’s the state’s. It is factually inaccurate to suggest that a discussion or a vote would have changed the state law that protects fair and inclusive access to school sports for all students.
Ziggy made an instagram post on August 6th on her campaign instagram stating, “Championing Parents’ Rights… I will champion your right to choose the learning environment that fits your family’s needs and values.” Madison Miner, chair of the Orange County Moms For Liberty chapter, commented, “Yes Ziggy!”, a comment that Ziggy liked.
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
TUSD candidate Kelly Felton (private instagram)
TUSD candidate Kelly Felton (campaign instagram)
Mari Barke, Orange County Board of Education Trustee and Director of CLEO at California Policy Center (CPC), a political organization hostile to the LGBTQ+ community
*Her accounts are mostly private, limiting our ability to determine who she follows.
Candidate’s Public Comments:
Ziggy answered the OC Register’s Candidate Questionnaire.
Question: “How do you feel artificial intelligence is, or isn’t, safe in the classroom? In what instances should it be expanded in the classroom? What about when it should be limited? (Please answer in 200 words or fewer.)”
Answer: “I believe artificial intelligence can be a valuable educational tool when it is used thoughtfully, safely, and with clear boundaries. AI should enhance learning, not replace the teacher or the critical thinking students need to develop.
I would not support making AI a regular part of classroom instruction before high school. Elementary and middle school students need to build strong foundations in reading, writing, research, problem-solving, creativity, and interpersonal skills. Those skills require practice, productive struggle, and human connection. Students should learn how to think before relying on technology to help them think.
In high school, I would support expanding AI in age-appropriate ways that prepare students for college, careers, and a world where AI will be part of their future. This should be guided by teachers who have received meaningful professional development in AI and understand both its opportunities and limitations. Used well, AI can support research, creativity, personalized learning, and problem-solving while teaching students to evaluate information and use these tools responsibly.
At every level, we need safeguards around student privacy, accuracy, and academic integrity. TUSD should embrace innovation when it truly benefits students, while ensuring technology never comes at the expense of foundational learning or meaningful relationships with teachers.”
Question: “How do you believe schools can better teach or engage students in civil discourse? How would you like to see your district tackle this issue? (Please answer in 200 words or fewer.)”
Answer: “I believe civil discourse is an important skill that students should learn and practice throughout their education. Schools can create opportunities for students to share ideas, ask thoughtful questions, listen to different perspectives, and respectfully disagree. Learning how to have productive conversations is just as important as learning what to think about.
As a longtime TUSD employee, parent, and PTA leader, I have seen the value of bringing people together, listening first, and finding common ground. I believe our schools should model those same principles for students.
I would like to see TUSD intentionally incorporate civil discourse into classrooms through age-appropriate discussions, literature, collaborative projects, and opportunities to explore multiple perspectives. Teachers should have the support and resources they need to facilitate these conversations in a way that encourages curiosity rather than division.
Most importantly, we should create a school culture where students feel safe expressing their ideas while understanding that respect is required when engaging with others. Our goal should be to graduate students who can think critically, communicate thoughtfully, and participate constructively in their communities even when they encounter ideas with which they disagree.”
Endorsed by:
Nancy’s Picks - Nancy’s Picks (far-right voter guide in Orange County, whose criteria for endorsement include “PRO-LIFE & PROTECTIONS for the UNBORN”, “PRO-SANCTITY of HETEROSEXUAL MARRIAGE”, “PRO-PARENTAL RIGHTS in EDUCATION”, “PRO-NUCLEAR FAMILY”, “SUPPORT FOR ISRAEL and IT’S RIGHT to EXIST”, “SECURE & SEAL OUR BORDERS”, and more.
Reform California - (far-right organization led by Carl DeMaio)
Madison Miner, (Chair, Moms for Liberty’s Orange County Chapter. Her public positions and endorsements are posted at her Instagram social media site madison4oc. Madison Miner won an Orange Unified school board seat in 2022. Voters recalled her in 2024. The L. A. Times reported that Miner was one of two conservative board members who had spearheaded policies widely opposed by advocates for LGBTQ+ youth in a recall election viewed as a local bellwether for the culture wars in education.)
Tim Shaw, Orange County Board of Education Trustee
Lisa Sparks, Orange County Board of Education Trustee
Jorge Valdes, Orange County Board of Education Trustee
Ken Williams, Orange County Board of Education Trustee
Lincoln Club of OC
Lisa Davis, Capo USD Trustee who is openly transphobic
Lisa Zollinger, Capo USD Trustee who is openly transphobic
Republican Party of Orange County
Mari Barke, Orange County Board of Education Trustee and Director of CLEO at California Policy Center (CPC), a political organization hostile to the LGBTQ+ community
Kathy Copeland, Tustin Unified School District Trustee and CPC funded elected official
Ryan Gallagher, Tustin City Council Member
Austin Lumbard, Tustin Mayor
John Nielsen, Tustin City Council Member
Will O’Neill, OC GOP Chairman
Ray Schnell, Tustin City Council Member
Candidate in the News:
(OC Register) Ziggy McBride, Tustin Unified School District Area 5 candidate, 2026 election questionnaire
Public Voting Record:
McBride has not held elected office before, so none found.
$1,000 from Kathy Copeland, current Tustin USD trustee with California Family Council connections
$100 from Sheryl L. Franke, president of the Tustin Area Republican Women Federated (TARWF)
$250 from Ryan Gallagher, Tustin City Councilmember
$5,000 from Orange County Charter Advocates for Great Public Schools PAC, a conservative PAC focused on charter school advocacy that focuses their contributions on right-wing candidates.
$2,500 from Lisa Vandorpe, a major funder of anti-LGBTQ+ candidates in Orange County. She’s contributed $23,000 to local anti-LGBTQ+ candidates in the last 4 years
$200 from Sandra Rittmanic, of Provo, Utah
$250 from Fredric Kern, of Jenkintown, Pennsylvania
$250 from Jorge Valdes, OC Board of Education Trustee
$2,000 from Corrine Haynie of Provo, Utah. Haynie is McBride’s maiden name, so likely family.
$3,500 from The Lincoln Club of Orange County State PAC, a conservative anti-LGBTQ group.
Rancho Santiago Community College District
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Rancho Santiago Community College District Area 2 Trustee Candidate
“JOHN R. HANNA | Governing Board Member, Rancho Santiago Community College District, Trustee Area 2
I am John R. Hanna, and it has been an honor to serve you and our community as the Trustee for Area 2 of the Rancho Santiago Community College District. My wife, Cynthia, and our seven children have lived in Santa Ana and Orange for 37 years. I am a long-time parishioner at Holy Family Church in Orange and have volunteered thousands of hours with local youth sports and community organizations. Professionally, I have served as General Counsel for two California agencies and handled government affairs for the 12-state Western States Carpenters before my
retirement.
As your Trustee, I have worked to maintain balanced budgets while building strong partnerships with local businesses. Santa Ana and Santiago Canyon colleges continue to have strong enrollment because of our dedicated educators and employees and our outstanding Career Technical Education and Apprenticeship programs, many of which allow our students to earn while they learn.
Our District contributes $2.4 billion to the Orange County economy, while providing students with affordable pathways to universities and good-paying careers. I remain committed to fiscal
responsibility, accountability and addressing challenges legally, responsibly, and transparently.
I humbly ask for your vote.”
Email: None Found
Campaign Website: John does not appear to have a campaign website.
Priorities: Normally we’d pull these from his website. Lacking that, these are pulled from his candidate questionnaire with the OC Register.
“Adequate funding to provide skilled workforce training as well as traditional academic majors that help run businesses and help prepare students for their associate’s and bachelor’s degrees at an affordable cost for students.
Ensuring that Santa Ana and Santiago Canyon colleges build on the success of the past in developing partnerships with business, labor, higher education and governmental entities to ensure that our students have a pipeline into a good career, trained by an outstanding faculty.”
Any Other Interesting Info:
John is the incumbent in this seat at the age of 74.
John also serves as the Director of Governmental and Political Affairs/Special Counsel at Western States Regional Council of Carpenters, a role he began in 2014. (x)
He received his JD (Law Degree) from Loyola Law School Los Angeles, and his BA in Political Science and Government from CSU Fullerton in 1974. (x)
In conjunction with his seat on the Rancho Santiago Community College District, he serves on the Community College League of California Advisory Committee on Legislation. (x)
According to the OC Register, Hanna was a leadership member (possibly Central Committee?) in the OC Democratic Party between 1980 and 1988. (x)
Social Media Links:
No traditional social media pages found.
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
None found
Candidate’s Public Comments:
The OC Register asked John, “In October, Long Beach City College will break ground on a new student housing facility at its Liberal Arts Campus that will provide 431 total units to students. Is student housing a priority that your college should pursue? If so, explain how you intend to take on such an endeavor in a timely, cost-effective manner. If you don’t, how should your college district support students searching for affordable housing options near campus?” He replied, “While I appreciate community colleges that have provided student housing, it’s expensive, and the state is no longer giving large sums of money to incentivize student housing. Only about 1% of California’s community college students utilize student housing, as most colleges don’t have the space for housing or find it too expensive when budgets are tight. In addition, a majority of students are part-time and are not on campus often.
If state funds become available for student housing, I would support talking with Santa Ana and the County of Orange, as well as our residential and business neighbors, before proceeding further. We are providing financial assistance to many of our students. Housing would need more multi-government/private sector funding and coordination if student housing were built.” (x)
The OC Register also asked him, “What is the best book you’ve read this year? Explain why you found it compelling.” He replied, “I Yell Because I Care: The Passion and Politics of John Burton, California’s Liberal Warrior.” John Burton was one of the toughest and brightest political leaders I have ever personally known. His book was an enjoyable walk down California’s governmental and political action from the 1950s until his passing last year. A good read on how politics is both an inside and outside game, at least if you’re good at it.” (x)
Endorsed by:
Nancy’s Picks - Nancy’s Picks (far-right voter guide in Orange County, whose criteria for endorsement include “PRO-LIFE & PROTECTIONS for the UNBORN”, “PRO-SANCTITY of HETEROSEXUAL MARRIAGE”, “PRO-PARENTAL RIGHTS in EDUCATION”, “PRO-NUCLEAR FAMILY”, “SUPPORT FOR ISRAEL and IT’S RIGHT to EXIST”, “SECURE & SEAL OUR BORDERS”, and more.
NOTE: Nancy did provide this note on her choice; “Comments: Not good choices. Better than Steve Rocco.” So while it’s her “Pick”, it’s not an enthusiastic, full-throated endorsement.
Candidate in the News:
(OC Register) John Hanna, Rancho Santiago Community College District Area 2 candidate, 2026 election questionnaire
Public Voting Record:
None Found
$250 from Faculty Association of the Rancho Santiago Community College District PAC
Hanna contributed $100 to the campaign of Santa Ana City Council incumbent candidate Phil Bacerra. You can read about Bacerra on the Santa Ana page.
Hanna contributed $100 to the campaign of Santa Ana City Council candidate Giovanni Chavez. You can read about Chavez on the Santa Ana page.
Hanna contributed $125 to the campaign of Santa Ana Mayoral incumbent candidate Valerie Amezcua. You can read about Amezcua on the Santa Ana page.
Hanna contributed $125 to the campaign of Coast Community College District Candidate Sunny Zia. You can read about Zia on multiple coastal city’s pages, including Huntington Beach.
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Rancho Santiago Community College District Area 2 Trustee Candidate
Candidate Statement: NONE FOUND
Email: None Found
Campaign Website: Rocco does not have a campaign website.
Priorities: Rocco has no listed priorities. He has never had listed priorities in any of his runs for office.
Any Other Interesting Info:
Former OUSD school board trustee 2004-2008. Rocco has run for office… a lot. He runs every cycle - he’s ran for OUSD, OC Clerk-Recorder, Santa Ana Mayor, Rancho Santiago Community College District, and more. He never has an active campaign - when he won the OUSD race in 2004 (with 54% of the vote), it was a shock to everyone, as he had essentially no campaign. Rocco himself refused all efforts to be contacted after he won, remaining elusive to the point that community watchdog groups offered a cash prize for anyone who could capture a picture of him. Rocco didn’t appear or speak publicly until the December 9, 2004 OUSD meeting where he was sworn in. (x) (x) (x)
While he was on the OUSD Board, Rocco was the source of a significant amount of turmoil due to his behavior, including a school board meeting in March 2007 when he attempted to make a speech about what he calls “the partnership,” a cabal of powerful individuals he says runs the county and has tried to assassinate him. That didn’t go over too well, leading the Board to seek to change the rules for how meetings were run. (x)
Speeches were not the extent of unusual behavior from Rocco while he sat on the OUSD board - multiple photographs and videos can be found online of Rocco wearing all black clothing, a dark blue beanie, and black Raybans-style sunglasses on the dias, presumably every time, along with props such as dolls, black-and-white surveillance style photos in picture frames, and signs. Rocco generally did not engage in discussion about school board matters during his time in elected office, instead tending to stick to commentary about his suspicions of a criminal cabal that was trying to kill him. (x)
During his early campaigns, Rocco gained a reputation for having misled voters about being a “teacher.” Rocco does have an expired teaching credential, but our researchers cannot find any evidence of him actually being employed as a teacher anywhere. (x)
As far as we can tell, Rocco won his election in 2004 largely in part because his ballot statement said he was a “teacher” while his opponent said he was a “park ranger.” (x)
Tried to list himself as a “retired teacher/writer” on his 2024 designation but a private citizen challenged the designation and the ROV agreed and removed “teacher”. Private citizens are legally allowed to challenge designations on ballots for a limited time during candidate filings - this is a legal process that exists through the OC Registrar of Voters. (x)
The LA Times reported on Rocco in 2004 ahead of his swearing in, sharing that, “indeed, when he filed candidacy paperwork for the school board seat, Rocco included a homemade manifesto of sorts -- a sheet of densely typed text cut and pasted together, and filled with rambling prose.
Rocco further explored his theories in a lengthy self-published book, “Behind the Orange Curtain: Secret Chronicles and Public Record Accounts of Corruption, Murder and Scandals of Corporate and Political California.” He also served as host on 17 episodes of a self-produced interview show on a public access cable channel in 1993 and 1994. Videotapes show a mustached Rocco conducting interviews from behind dark glasses with guests who included a self-proclaimed witch and a drummer from a 1960s rock band.
In 1996 he produced one episode of another series, “Political Murder,” but lawyers for the cable company and Santa Ana College -- where the show was taped -- refused to let it air. College spokeswoman Judy Iannaccone declined to comment further on the show.” (x)
When Rocco was censured by his fellow OUSD Trustees, he sued over it, claiming the censure was a violation of his first amendment rights. The judge disagreed, dismissing the case. (x)
Social Media Links:
Rocco is famously a recluse. None Found.
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
None Found
Candidate’s Public Comments:
In his opening speech when he was sworn in at the Orange USD board back in 2004, he said, “You change things here, you change things nationwide. The world is watching. Doing my job as trustee and fighting organized crime are one and the same. We are living in a time of secret organizations, living in a time of corruption and, most of all, living in a time of dictatorships.” (x)
Endorsed by:
None found
Candidate in the News:
(LA Times 2007) Judge dismisses suit by Orange schools trustee
(Recordnet.com 2004) Mystery school board winner gets sworn in
(LA Times 2007) Rocco speech prompts school board change
(OC Register 2011) Policy to stifle ex-Orange trustee Rocco under scrutiny
(LA Times 2004) Where’s Rocco? Answer May Come Dec. 9
(OC Register 2008) Film about controversial school trustee aired
(Foothill Sentry 2024) Candidate Rocco has eyes on Orange Unified again
(OC Register 2006) Rocco running for a second public office
Public Voting Record:
None found
None found
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Rancho Santiago Community College District Area 4 Trustee Candidate
“DAISY TONG | AGE: 42 | Rancho Santiago Community College District Governing Board Member, Trustee Area 4
It has been an honor to serve as your Trustee for the past four years, including the privilege of serving as President of the Board. I believe education transforms lives by expanding opportunities, increasing earning potential, and strengthening our entire community.
During my term, our district maintained a strong financial position, increased reserves, expanded enrollment, strengthened dual enrollment and adult education, and grew nationally recognized apprenticeship programs. From the beginning, I have been committed to helping our young students successfully transfer to four-year universities while also creating more opportunities for working adults to return to college, earn certificates, degrees, and build better careers.
Under our leadership, Rancho Santiago Community College District expanded one of California’s largest selections of bachelor’s degree programs, opened Santa Ana College’s new Health Sciences Building, secured more than $29 million in new state funding through enrollment growth, and brought in millions of federal grants to expand educational opportunities.
I believe public service begins with listening. I maintain an open-door policy and welcome your questions, ideas, and concerns at daisyxtong@gmail.com. I respectfully ask for your vote for Daisy Tong to continue building on this success by keeping student success our top priority while remaining a responsible steward of taxpayer dollars.”
Email: daisyxtong@gmail.com
Campaign Website: https://www.votedaisytong.com/
Priorities:
“Progress Through Leadership
During my time on the Board, I’ve been proud to work with my fellow trustees and our colleges to support significant growth and new opportunities for students. Together, we have expanded educational pathways, strengthened career and workforce programs, grown Continuing Education, and maintained a strong financial foundation. There is more work ahead, and I remain committed to building on this progress.
Student Success & Opportunity
I’ve been proud to support expanding affordable pathways for students to earn degrees, transfer to four-year universities, and prepare for meaningful careers. Santa Ana College now offers three bachelor’s degree programs—Occupational Studies, Paralegal Studies, and Automotive Technology—with additional bachelor’s programs in development.
Education at Every Stage of Life
I believe community college should be an open door for everyone—from high school students and first-time college students to working adults, immigrants, veterans, and those returning to school for a second chance. During my time on the Board, Continuing Education has grown significantly and now serves more than 30,000 students throughout Santa Ana and Garden Grove.
Career Education & Workforce Development
I’ve supported the continued growth of career education, apprenticeships, and programs in high-demand fields such as healthcare, public safety, automotive technology, technology, and the skilled trades—helping connect students to meaningful careers while strengthening Orange County’s workforce.
Responsible Leadership
As a Trustee, I’ve supported balanced budgets, strong reserves, and responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. I will continue working to protect the district’s financial strength while keeping our resources focused on students, instruction, and long-term success.”
Any Other Interesting Info:
Tong is the incumbent in this seat, having first been elected in 2022.
She’s originally from Vietnam, having emigrated to the United States with her family when she was 10 years old, identifying as a political refugee. (x)
Tong is a Real Estate Agent in her time outside of the school district.
Social Media Links:
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
OCGOP
Shawn Steel (Former Chair of the California Republican Party, known as a political Kingmaker (or Queenmaker) in conservative SoCal politics. Husband to Fmr. Congresswoman Michelle Steel)
Michelle Steel (Fmr. Congresswoman, solidly MAGA, anti-LGBTQ voting record)
Kim Colleen Bengard (Member of the Council for National Policy, Director of It Takes A Family Foundation, Director at Prager University Foundation & Family Action PAC President. For anyone unfamiliar, these are extremist, far-right organizations in the Heritage Foundation network pushing policy at a national level). (x)
Tim Bengard (along with his wife Colleen, they were among the top donors to 2008 Prop 8 effort to ban gay marriage in California) (x)
Candidate’s Public Comments:
On December 20th, 2025, she shared an instagram post that said, “I saw a quote that said, you worry too much for someone who God has never failed. And I honestly needed to be called out like that”, with the caption, “Sometimes, when you're a little short of clarity, you ask God for a sign, and this is the first thing you see. Nothing calms you more. #godishood #blessedaways” (x)
Most of Tong’s social media posts were promotions of properties she was looking to sell as a Real Estate agent, or photos of her dogs, flowers, fashion, and other things that didn’t really tell our researchers much about her values or opinions. We did not find much in the way of public comment elsewhere.
Endorsed by:
Nancy’s Picks - Nancy’s Picks (far-right voter guide in Orange County, whose criteria for endorsement include “PRO-LIFE & PROTECTIONS for the UNBORN”, “PRO-SANCTITY of HETEROSEXUAL MARRIAGE”, “PRO-PARENTAL RIGHTS in EDUCATION”, “PRO-NUCLEAR FAMILY”, “SUPPORT FOR ISRAEL and IT’S RIGHT to EXIST”, “SECURE & SEAL OUR BORDERS”, and more.
Moms on the Ground — California parental-rights advocacy group that has worked in coalition with Moms for Liberty and other organizations promoting parental-rights and school-choice/charter-school policies. (momsonthegroundca, Moms for Liberty)
Reform California - (far-right organization led by Carl DeMaio)
Young Kim – U.S. Congresswoman
NOTE: Kim has a long track record of voting in opposition of LGBTQ and immigrant rights.
Tri Ta – California Assemblyman
Mario Rodriguez – Hispanic 100 Chairman
John Hanna – Rancho Santiago Community College Trustee
Lan Quoc Nguyen – Garden Grove Unified School District Board Member
Bobby McDonald – Veteran & Community Business Advocate
Jon Dumitru – City of Orange Council Member
Dina Nguyen, Esq. – Garden Grove Unified School District Board Member
Sal Tinajero – Rancho Santiago CC Trustee and Santa Ana Councilman (Former)
Tyler Diep – Assemblyman representing part of Garden Grove (former)
Allan Mansoor – Assemblyman representing the majority of Garden Grove (former)
Michael Vo – Mayor, Fountain Valley (former)
Steve Mensinger – Mayor, Costa Mesa (former)
Chinh Nguyen – Autism Advocate & Regional Center of Orange County Board Member
Flo Cudal – President SCC Associated Student Government (former)
Candidate in the News:
(OC Register 2026) Rancho Santiago Community College District chancellor on administrative leave announces retirement
(OC Register 2026) Rancho Santiago Community College District trustees suspend current board chair
(Voice of OC 2026 - Opinion) Resnick: RSCCD – A Crisis of Leadership, Accountability and Trust
(Voice of OC 2026 - Opinion) Resnick: After Losing the Bond Measure, RSCCD Finds Another Way to Waste Taxpayer Dollars
Public Voting Record:
None Found
Tong’s campaign contributions are not yet publicly available.
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Rancho Santiago Community College District Area 4 Trustee Candidate
“BEATRIZ MENDOZA | AGE: 50 | Parent/Businesswoman
In 2017, I proudly served as a member of the Rancho Santiago Community College District, Measure E Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee. As a former student of a community college, I
understand firsthand the importance of having access to the best resources, a great learning environment, and infrastructure that leads to student success.
I am a former City of Santa Ana Planning Commissioner and also served on the 7th Santa Ana General Plan Advisory Group, where we reviewed the City’s General Master Plan to help improve our city.
While in college, I was the District Student Council Representative for the Coast Community College District and was the Associated Student Representative on the President’s Cabinet and Academic Senate. After obtaining my A.A., I transferred to UCLA and graduated with a degree in Political Science.
As a former staff member for a congressional office, I co-chaired the Higher Education Advisory Board, where Chancellors, Deans, and college Presidents participated in a dialogue to improve higher education for all students. Currently, my oldest son attends Santa Ana College, my daughter is at UC Santa Cruz, and my youngest son is at Segerstrom High School, where I am a member of the School Site Council.”
Email:
Phone: 714-866-8788
Campaign Website: www.beatrizmendoza4ranchosantiagocollegeboard.com/
Priorities:
Mendoza does not list her specific priorities on her campaign website, but she does say on the landing page, “I understand firsthand the importance of having access to the best resources, a great learning environment, and infrastructure that leads to student success.”
Any Other Interesting Info:
When Beatriz ran for Orange County Board of Education in 2024, she attended a candidate forum put on by the OC LGBTQ Center along with the two other progressive candidates running for seats on the Board of Education. The conservative candidates did not attend. Date: February 28, 2024. (x)
She lists her experience on her campaign website to include “former staffer for a Congressional Office”, and her Linkedin references a “Senior Field Representative” but she doesn’t identify the member of Congress that she was a staffer for. We did find a Voice of OC article who identified her as a staffer for Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez (D-Santa Ana). (x) (x)
She graduated from UCLA with a Bachelor of Arts, Political Science, American Government and Politics (x)
Beatriz has been involved in non-profit work as well, including CEO of the YWCA of Orange County, managing the Youth Empowerment Services (YES) Office in Anaheim, the Delhi Center in Santa Ana, and Chief of Staff of the California League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC).
Mendoza’s 2019 Santa Ana City Council campaign was backed by Planned Parenthood. (x)
Social Media Links:
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
Joe Biden
UCLA
OC Dems and Progressives
Lavender Democrats OC
Benjamin Vazquez (Santa Ana City Council, LGBTQ ally, immigrant justice ally)
VietRISE
The Democrats
Isuri S. Ramos (Santa Ana City Council candidate, LGBTQ ally, immigrant justice ally)
Kris Erickson (OUSD Trustee, LGBTQ ally)
Candidate’s Public Comments:
In her 2024 campaign for Orange County Board of Education, Beatriz said, “I’m deeply concerned about the direction of our County Board. Our focus should be on student success and safety, with taxpayer money spent directly on classrooms, not squandered on lawsuits that serve a political agenda.” (x)
During her 2024 campaign, the OC Register asked Beatriz, “A predominant topic in school districts lately has been parental notification policies, requirements for how school officials may inform parents if their child may be transgender. What do you see as the role schools should have in involving parents in social issues?” Beatriz replied, “There is a need for more conversations between children and their parents, especially since the pandemic, and parents need to be welcomed into the conversation and active in their child’s education and more engaged as partners. “Notification” suggests that parents aren’t partners in the development and education of their children. Students need to be put first in the decision-making and ensure that their mental health needs are addressed. Furthermore, schools should provide a safe learning environment for all students. By enacting these types of policies, we are putting their mental well-being at risk.” (x)
The OC Register asked Beatriz during this 2026 campaign for Rancho Santiago Community College District, “In October, Long Beach City College will break ground on a new student housing facility at its Liberal Arts Campus that will provide 431 total units to students. Is student housing a priority that your college should pursue? If so, explain how you intend to take on such an endeavor in a timely, cost-effective manner. If you don’t, how should your college district support students searching for affordable housing options near campus?” Beatriz replied, “I think our district can continue to be a resource hub that includes partnerships with the local housing authorities, non-profit organizations that help with free or low-income housing, and living spaces. Additionally, the district can continue to work with counselors to assist students with the financial aid process to help students obtain rental/home ownership subsidies.
I think the district can look into student housing in the near future.” (x)
Endorsed by:
Congressman Lou Correa
Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento
RSCCD Trustee Zeke Hernandez
Democratic Party of Orange County
Orange County Labor Federation
Chapter 579 CSEA
FARSCCD CCA/CTA Local #4351
CEFA
Candidate in the News:
(Voice of OC 2016) Mental Health Money Top Issue in Santa Ana School Board Forum
(Voice of OC 2016) Santa Ana Council Appoints Replacement for Mill on Planning Commission
(Voice of OC 2019) Today is Election Day in Santa Ana for New Council, School Board Members
(Voice of OC 2024) Voters to Decide Who Sits on The Orange County Board of Education
(Voice of OC 2024) Primary Election Night Results: OC Board of Education
(OC Register 2026) Beatriz Mendoza, Rancho Santiago Community College District Area 4 candidate, 2026 election questionnaire
(OC Register 2024) Election | Beatriz Mendoza, Board of Education Trustee Area 1 candidate, 2024 primary election questionnaire
Public Voting Record:
None Found
$2,500 from Faculty Association of the Rancho Santiago Community College District PAC
$500 from the campaign of Diedre Thu-Ha Nguyen for Mayor 2026
$109 from the campaign of Ada Briceno for Assembly 2026
Beatriz herself contributed $250 to Benjamin Vazquez for Santa Ana Council Ward 2 2026
South OC Community College District
-
South OC Community College District Area 4 Candidate
“NARGES RAKIN | AGE: 56 | College Dean/Educator
I'm Narges Rakin — an educator, a professor, a parent, and an advocate who has spent nearly three decades working inside California's community colleges, putting students first as a tenured professor, a faculty union negotiator, and now a Dean. That depth of experience is an asset, not just a resume line because I know this system inside and out, from the classroom to the negotiating table to the administration building, and I know where the gaps between promises and practice tend to show up.
I'm running for the SOCCCD Board of Trustees because I believe our district's budget and decisions belong to the public, not just the boardroom. Too often, families are asked to trust institutions without being shown the reasoning behind them. I don't think that's good enough.
As a board member, I will push for open, plain-language budget reporting that any parent or taxpayer can actually read. I will prioritize outside grant and workforce-development funding to
grow academic programs, protecting the general fund as a last resort. And I will insist that every decision can stand up to a direct question from a student, a parent, or the public — asked openly, and answered honestly.
I ask for your vote.
Email: mailto:info@therakin.org
Campaign Website: https://www.therakin.org/
Priorities:
Budgets built in the open
Growth without risk
Answerable to the people who pay for it
Any Other Interesting Info:
Director of Shokooh Foundation is a 501(c) Private Charity Organization.
“We are a Nonprofit Humanitarian Organization for Children.”
From LinkedIn - Experience
Chancellor's Office Special AI Advisor - California Community Colleges
Sep 2025 - Present · 1 yr 2 mos
Dean of Humanities and Social Science - Cerritos College · Full-time
Jul 2024 - Present · 2 yrs 4 mos
Principal Consultant - Command Academics · Contract
Sep 2021 - Present · 5 yrs 2 mos
Member - Community College League of California
Jan 2021 - Jun 2025 · 4 yrs 6 mos
Rancho Santiago Community College District - Full-time · 20 yrs
Professor - Aug 2004 - Jul 2024 · 20 yrs
Assist. Vice Chancellor- People & Culture: Chief Diversity & Social Impact Officer - Jul 2020 - Jul 2022 · 2 yrs 1 mo
Faculty Union President and Chief Negotiator - Jul 2011 - Jul 2020 · 9 yrs 1 mo
Member Of The Board Of Advisors - National Model United Nations · Freelance
Mar 2020 - Jun 2024 · 4 yrs 4 mos
Faculty Association - FARSCCD
Jul 2011 - Jul 2020 · 9 yrs 1 mo
From LinkedIn - Education
University of Southern California - Doctor of Education - EdD, Organizational Leadership
Cornell University ILR School - Professional Certificate, Diversity and Inclusion
California State University, Long Beach - Master of Arts - MA, Political Science and Government
California State University, Fullerton - Master of Arts - MA, HISTORY
California State University, Fullerton - History and Political Science
From LinkedIn - Volunteering
Director - Shokooh Foundation
Jul 2026 - Present · 4 mos
Our Mission is to improve the quality of life for children around the world who are in need – from toddlers to college students.
Social Media Links:
Personal Facebook - Small number of posts from 2013 to August 2026, all family
Personal Twitter - Posts starting in 2011 with most recent in December, 2020, including:
Feb 7, 2012 - “Way to go California same sex unions are not an issue in CA. Seriously, private lives are private.”
Feb 4, 2013 - “....the NRA and their minions dismantle the truth, while our living breathing children are slaughtered.”
Jun 26, 2015 - picture lowering Confederate flag then raising Pride flag
Personal Instagram - no posts visible
Second Personal Instagram - one post with no text
LinkedIn - Posts every few months starting 6 years ago, all see to be career related
Not found on Threads; Bluesky
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
Personal Facebook - 82 friends, not available to view
Personal Twitter - following 85, including
Barack Obama - @BarackObama
Kamala Harris - @KamalaHarris
Personal Instagram - following 38, majority look to be private, personal accounts
Second Personal Instagram - following 324, including
LinkedIn - 478 connections - need to connect to be able to see them
Candidate’s Public Comments:
Narges Rakin, South Orange County Community College District Area 4 candidate, 2026 election questionnaire - By Kaitlyn Schallhorn | kschallhorn@scng.com - PUBLISHED: October 5, 2026 at 2:22 PM PDT
What are the top two needs of your college district, and how are you prepared to address them? (Please answer in 200 words or fewer.)
The most pressing need is at Saddleback College. The district’s recent Inspire 2035 visioning sessions center on direct support for students and campus infrastructure, expanding basic needs funding and student emergency aid, extending hours at the Student Health Center, modernizing classrooms for the English and humanities departments, adding more direct financial aid and free textbooks, and addressing longstanding budget and bureaucratic bottlenecks within the district’s approval processes.
As the Area 4 Trustee, my priority is to prioritize and fund basic-needs programs and emergency student aid in the budget, working to streamline the approval processes that staff and faculty flagged as a frustration, while championing facilities upgrades like modern classrooms.
To you, what is the role of community college in education? Is it driving policy, being involved in curriculum, something else entirely? (Please answer in 200 words or fewer.)
The role of community college is to provide a broad education system to the community. The colleges must remain affordable and accessible. For a large share of students, community college is the first two years of a bachelor’s degree and a gateway to higher degrees, which can lead to a career.
Beyond transfer, community colleges train people directly for jobs, for example, nursing, automotive technology, computer science, culinary arts, skilled trades, etc. Very often through certificate programs, these pathways take months, rather than years, to complete.
Community colleges serve older students returning to school, people changing careers, first-generation college students, and those needing remedial coursework before tackling college-level work. Lastly, community colleges are the economic anchor of the community.
In October, Long Beach City College will break ground on a new student housing facility at its Liberal Arts Campus that will provide 431 total units to students. Is student housing a priority that your college should pursue? If so, explain how you intend to take on such an endeavor in a timely, cost-effective manner. If you don’t, how should your college district support students searching for affordable housing options near campus? (Please answer in 200 words or less.)
Yes, student housing should be a priority, but a realistic, phased plan rather than a flagship promise. Housing insecurity is already one of the most commonly cited barriers to student success and, for community colleges specifically, even a small dedicated housing option can meaningfully increase persistence and completion rates for students who commute long distances, couch-surf, or drop classes because they can’t afford to live near campus.
What actions would you suggest to prevent a cyberattack similar to the Canvas data breach in May? How can your district ensure students’ information is safe? (Please answer in 200 words or less.)
Cybersecurity isn’t something I’d treat as just an IT problem. It’s a board-level responsibility, especially since community colleges have become a favorite target for ransomware precisely because we’re seen as underfunded and under-defended. I’d push for the basics that actually stop most attacks — for example, multi-factor authentication — and ensure that systems are kept patched and updated, networks are segmented so one compromised computer can’t take down financial aid or enrollment systems, and backups are tested and stored separately so we’re never forced into paying a ransom. Also, establish real phishing training and a clear, blame-free way for staff to report something suspicious the moment they see it.
On the governance side, I’d ask for a real cybersecurity policy with clear ownership of incident response, regular outside audits instead of just trusting our own systems are fine, and careful vetting of the vendors we give system access to. And honestly, I’d fight to get cybersecurity its own protected line in the budget rather than something that gets cut first when money’s tight, with the board getting regular updates.
How do you feel artificial intelligence is, or isn’t, safe in the classroom? In what instances should it be expanded in the classroom? What about when it should be limited? (Please answer in 200 words or less.)
AI in the classroom is safe when it’s used with intention and guardrails, and risky when it’s adopted without either. Having taught history and political science for 24 years before moving into administration, I’ve watched technology change the classroom before, and the lesson I keep coming back to is that the tool itself is rarely the problem; it’s whether faculty and students are given the training and structure to use it well.
AI should be a tool that extends what a good instructor already does and not a shortcut around the work of learning, and not a replacement for the human relationships that actually keep students enrolled and succeeding. As a trustee, I’d ask the district to invest in real faculty training on this, develop clear and consistent policy rather than leaving it to individual instructors to sort out, and keep asking whether a given use of AI is helping students think more, or think less.
How do you believe schools can better teach or engage students in civil discourse? How would you like to see your district tackle this issue? (Please answer in 200 words or less.)
As a professor for 24 years, I’ve seen firsthand that civil discourse doesn’t happen just because students are in the same room together; it has to be taught deliberately. It starts with actually structuring opportunities for students to disagree productively, for example, formal debate programs, moderated discussions on contested issues, and classroom norms that reward genuine engagement with an opposing view rather than just winning an argument or shutting someone down.
Faculty play a huge role here, too, where they need to model what it looks like to explore a hard question fairly, present multiple credible perspectives, and separate “I disagree with you” from “you’re a bad person for believing that.”
I’d also want to see students practicing this across differences, not just in the abstract. This is done by bringing together people with genuinely different backgrounds, political views, and life experiences so disagreement isn’t hypothetical.
And honestly, some of it is about giving students the tools before they need them. For example, teaching media literacy and how to evaluate a source so disagreements are grounded in facts rather than misinformation, and giving students language for disagreeing respectfully instead of either avoiding conflict entirely or treating every debate like a fight to win. Community colleges are actually well-positioned for this, since our student bodies are already so diverse in age, background, and life experience.
What experiences and priorities do you bring to this role? What have you learned in prior leadership roles that makes you the person for the job? (Please answer in 200 words or less.)
I bring nearly three decades inside this system, with 24 years as a community college professor teaching history and political science, followed by my current role as a college dean. That combination matters in this role. I’ve stood in front of the classroom and know what students actually need to succeed, and I’ve also sat in the leadership meetings where budget, policy, and facilities decisions get made.
Teaching history and political science for over two decades taught me how to help people understand complex systems, weigh competing perspectives fairly, and reason through hard questions without oversimplifying them. These are skills I use every day now as an administrator, and skills that a board sorely needs when it’s making decisions that affect thousands of students.
As a dean, I’ve learned how to manage competing priorities with limited resources, how to translate faculty and student concerns into policy that actually gets implemented, and how to navigate the bureaucratic layers of a district system without losing sight of the people it’s supposed to serve.
My priorities coming into this role are the ones I’ve lived with directly, these are student basic needs and affordability, modernizing classrooms and facilities, supporting faculty who are doing the actual work of instruction, and making sure the board’s decisions are grounded in what’s happening on the ground — not just what looks good in a strategic plan. I’m not coming to this seat to learn the system. I’ve spent 24 years teaching in it and years since leading in it, and that’s exactly the perspective I want to bring to the board table.
If your campaign had a mascot, what would it be and why? (Please answer in 200 words or fewer.)
My mascot is the falcon. I chose the falcon because it reflects the way I lead. Falcons are known for extraordinary eyesight. They have the ability to see clearly and with precision from a height that others can’t reach. As a college dean, I’ve spent years inside this system, close to faculty, staff, and students, and that vantage point has given me the clarity to see the whole landscape, not just the piece in front of me. The falcon also carries a sense of purposeful speed, as it doesn’t wander or hesitate; it targets what matters and moves with decisiveness. That’s the kind of leadership I want to bring to the board: clear-eyed, grounded in experience, and willing to act rather than get stuck in bureaucratic slowness. The falcon isn’t just a symbol I picked. It’s how I intend to show up in this role.
Bonus question: What is the best book you’ve read this year? Explain why you found it compelling.
The best book this year is Liz Wiseman’s “Multipliers.” It describes investing in people, assuming capability rather than doubting it, and creating conditions for growth, as it lines up naturally with the mission of a community college.
Endorsed by:
Candidate in the News:
Nothing found
Public Voting Record:
Nothing found, has not held office yet
From netfile.com - records from 2020 but nothing more recent found
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South OC Community College District Area 4 Candidate
“GILA JONES | Board Member, Capistrano Unified School District
Tested Leadership – Future Focus – Transparency
During my twelve-year tenure on your Capistrano Unified School District board, I successfully advocated for the establishment of a new Academy for CUSD students, located on the Saddleback College campus, where students are able to take both high school and college courses, and may simultaneously earn CUSD and Saddleback diplomas. I was part of the team that hired a new superintendent; added to the already-strong Honors, Advanced Placement, and International Baccalaureate curricula; improved public transparency and communication with parents; and many other accomplishments.
It’s critical that we prepare students for a very rapidly changing global economy and job market. I’ll urgently advocate for coursework in emerging fields, as well as high-demand careers with apprenticeship options, both for young people and those pursuing new fields of work or study. Public trust requires stringent oversight. The current South Orange County Community College District board failed to protect residents and taxpayers when they voted to accept a $750,000 developer inducement tied to a potentially hazardous Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), near Saddleback College, without proper scrutiny. Trustees must independently vet staff recommendations rather than rubber-stamping staff proposals that may compromise community safety.
If elected, I’ll bring governance experience, future-driven vision, and public accountability to the board. 949-371-6662”
Email: gilajones4collegeboard@gmail.com
Campaign Website: https://www.gilajones.org/
Priorities:
Career Education for an AI - influenced Future
Budget Accountability
Grow Dual Enrollment
Strengthen Math Preparation
Any Other Interesting Info:
Gila was in attendance at a South Orange County Pride event in early fall 2026 where she spoke briefly with Pride at the Pier.
Capistrano Unified school board majority votes for resolution opposing trans athletes in girls’ sports - By Hanna Kang | hkang@scng.com - PUBLISHED: May 22, 2025 at 5:11 PM PDT | UPDATED: May 28, 2025 at 3:07 PM PDT - OC Register
“After several hours of impassioned testimony, board member clashes and tense public outbursts, the Capistrano Unified School District board approved a resolution calling for “fairness in girls’ sports,” and opposed the participation of transgender athletes in women’s athletic competitions.
The 4-2-1 vote on Wednesday, May 21, comes amid a broader debate that has increasingly played out in school board chambers across the region and country. Capistrano Unified, the largest district in Orange County, is believed to be the first OC district to adopt such a resolution.
[...] “This harms connectedness for some kids,” Trustee Gila Jones said, urging her colleagues to delay the vote and instead workshop the topic in a more collaborative setting. “Contentiousness on the board doesn’t move the needle for kids.”
NOTE: minutes of the meeting appear to be no longer available on the capousd.org site, but found here - search for “Resolution No. 2425-30” or here is the scan of the resolution with the hand written notes of votes.
NOTE: Gila Jones was the abstaining vote in the 4-2-1 outcome
Why Did a South OC School Board Member Say the N-Word? - by Hosam Elattar and Angelina Hicks - Mar 14, 2025 - Voice of OC
“A South Orange County school board member’s use of the N-word at a recent public meeting – while supporting approval of a book about an enslaved man – has triggered concerns and debate across one of Orange County’s largest school districts.”
“[...] CUSD Board Member Gila Jones said she does not approve of the use of the N-word, adding that Bullockus did not use the word an as epithet, but in the context of a discussion about a book where the N-word is used often. “I don’t say that word. I don’t think people should say it. I don’t approve of kids saying it to each other. I don’t approve of rap singers saying it,” she said in a Friday phone call. “It’s a bad word, but I also want to be very clear, it was in context.” She also said that a resident used the full word in their public comments before Bullockus spoke.
From LinkedIn - Experience
Candidate, Board of Trustees - South Orange County Community College District (Aug 2026 - Present · 3 mos)
Member of the Board of Trustees - Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD) (Dec 2014 - Present · 11 yrs 11 mos)
Advisory Board Member - Breakthrough San Juan Capistrano (Sep 2013 - Present · 13 yrs 2 mos)
Member of the Board of Trustees - College and Career Advantage - Regional Occupational Program (Jan 2016 - Dec 2024 · 9 yrs)
Volunteer Coordinator - Kinoshita Elementary School (Sep 2009 - Sep 2016 · 7 yrs 1 mo)
Commissioner, Housing Advisory Committee - City of San Juan Capistrano (Sep 2009 - Sep 2012 · 3 yrs 1 mo)
Product Manager - VSI / V Systems, Inc. (1997 – 2000)
From LinkedIn - Education
D'Amore-McKim School of Business at Northeastern University - MBA, Management Information Systems (1975 – 1977)
UC Irvine - B.A. (1970 – 1975)
Social Media Links:
Personal Facebook - Assumed based on limited details available
Posts from 2018 through September 2026 on many topics - pro Ukraine; science news stories; local events, etc.
November 23, 2025 - “Putin has stolen Mariupol, and likely won't stop until he completes the theft of the remainder of Ukraine, Moldova, and the Baltics. Can he be stopped?”
Campaign Instagram - 6 posts, five campaign related one personal
LinkedIn - no posts but many likes of other’s posts - see Reactions
Not found on Twitter; Threads; Bluesky; Youtube
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
Personal Facebook - Assumed based on limited details available - 1k friends, not visible
Campaign Instagram - following 329 including
cvasquez4mvcc - Cynthia Vasquez | Mission Viejo Council Member
emmonsforcusd - Jeanna Emmons for CUSD
erinbeyer4citycouncil - Erin Beyer
melissacforcusd - Melissa Caldwell
LinkedIn - 1,362 followers, cannot see them without becoming a connection
Candidate’s Public Comments:
Instagram - gila_jones_for_college_board - Gila Jones - June 1, 2026
“My dad's oldest brother was a gay man -- just as awkward and shy as he appears in this old photo, but also talented, wise, kind, and hilariously funny. Remembering him this #Pride Month, I wish he had lived to enjoy the kind of acceptance he would have experienced today.”
Endorsed by:
Mike Levin, Member of Congress
Catherine Blakespear, State Senator
Katrina Foley, Member, Orange County Board of Supervisors
The Faculty Association of California Community Colleges
South Orange County Community College District Faculty Association
On Instagram canyondemocrats - Canyon Democrats
Candidate in the News:
capodispatch - The Capistrano Dispatch - May 15, 2021
“The renaming has been in the works since last year, when Trustee Gila Jones originally brought up the matter following scrutiny of Father Junipero Serra, the school’s namesake. The campus is a continuation school in San Juan Capistrano.”
Capistrano Unified rejects parental notification policy, a first among OC school districts - By Annika Bahnsen | abahnsen@scng.com - PUBLISHED: October 19, 2023 at 8:47 AM PDT | UPDATED: October 20, 2023 at 9:37 AM PDT
“Capistrano Unified School District voted against enacting a parental notification policy Wednesday night, the first Orange County school district to outright deny such a proposal.”
“But after being asked for clarification during the discussion on Wednesday, Oct. 18, Trustee Lisa Davis, who proposed the policy, said students’ gender identity would also result in parental notification.”
“Trustee Gila Jones, who voted against the policy, was not in favor of using the word “notification” to describe the policy but suggested using “engagement” instead. “Engagement suggests that it is a partnership,” said Jones. “I do not think that parents are the enemy, not for a minute. I also do not think that there is anyone in the district who thinks that as well.” ”
Public Voting Record:
Gila Jones, South Orange County Community College District Area 4 candidate, 2026 election questionnaire - By Kaitlyn Schallhorn | kschallhorn@scng.com - PUBLISHED: October 5, 2026 at 2:21 PM PDT
Question: What are the top two needs of your college district, and how are you prepared to address them? (Please answer in 200 words or fewer.)
Answer: 1) The efficient use of taxpayer dollars is important for any governmental agency, but for a college district board, the top priority is ensuring funding directly impacts the educational success of students.
2) With AI rapidly transforming education, the district must invest in training for faculty and staff and partner with industry and community organizations that can give students real-world, hands-on experience with new technologies.
Question: To you, what is the role of community college in education? Is it driving policy, being involved in curriculum, something else entirely? (Please answer in 200 words or fewer.)
Answer: California’s community colleges were built on an open-access model to offer affordable, low-barrier education for everyone. They uniquely serve three primary groups: high school graduates who plan to transfer to a four-year college or university, those who are seeking job training or retraining, and individuals taking classes of personal interest or for self-improvement. No other California public educational entities serve these important purposes.
Question: In October, Long Beach City College will break ground on a new student housing facility at its Liberal Arts Campus that will provide 431 total units to students. Is student housing a priority that your college should pursue? If so, explain how you intend to take on such an endeavor in a timely, cost-effective manner. If you don’t, how should your college district support students searching for affordable housing options near campus? (Please answer in 200 words or less.)
Answer: Yes, student housing should be a priority, but it must be done without burdening taxpayers or taking on excessive risk. Many California affordable housing developers will build, manage, and maintain income-restricted housing on publicly owned land through a low-cost, long-term ground lease. I will advocate for exploring this public-private model on the three SOCCCD campuses.
Question: What actions would you suggest to prevent a cyberattack similar to the Canvas data breach in May? How can your district ensure students’ information is safe? (Please answer in 200 words or less.)
Answer: The problem arises when critical data is stored in a cloud. Outsourcing storage is attractive for the end user because it’s cost-effective, but risk management should never be outsourced. Cloud providers must meet high-level security standards, and all software contracts must include significant financial accountability for any breach.
In addition to vendor oversight, other good practices include minimizing storage of sensitive information, requiring students and employees to update passwords frequently, and using multi-factor authorization on sign-in.
Question: How do you feel artificial intelligence is, or isn’t, safe in the classroom? In what instances should it be expanded in the classroom? What about when it should be limited? (Please answer in 200 words or less.)
Answer: AI chatbots are no less safe in classrooms than anywhere else. However, because the common use of AI chatbots is relatively new, many people may be unaware that chatbots can provide extremely inaccurate information, and that there have been instances of chatbots encouraging users toward self-harm, recommending illegal actions, and giving health advice that resulted in medical emergencies. To improve public information about chatbot risks, the first meeting of any community college class could include a handout or brief lesson about such potential hazards.
How do you believe schools can better teach or engage students in civil discourse? How would you like to see your district tackle this issue? (Please answer in 200 words or less.)
Answer: Students of all beliefs (political, religious, personal) must feel welcome on college campuses. Both the Saddleback and Irvine Valley campuses encourage civil discourse by participating in the Students Vote Project, “a statewide nonpartisan program that amplifies college student voices and promotes civic engagement efforts to build a more inclusive democracy.
Part of the issue today is that people rarely interact with those holding differing political views. To address this, individual departments or instructors could draw inspiration from NPR and StoryCorps’ One Small Step project, in which pairs people with opposing viewpoints for a non-political conversation—and encourage similar dialogue exercises in humanities courses. Building personal connections across political divides helps students see one another as individuals rather than adversaries.
Question: What experiences and priorities do you bring to this role? What have you learned in prior leadership roles that makes you the person for the job? (Please answer in 200 words or less.)
Answer: I have 12 years’ experience as a local public school board member, where I was involved in the development and modification of student and staff policies; hired, supervised, and evaluated a district superintendent and other executive leadership; oversaw multi-million dollar budgets and spending; and participated in the establishment of long-term strategic plans and district goals.
I successfully advocated for the establishment of a new Academy on the Saddleback campus where high school students are able to simultaneously earn a high school diploma and a two-year college degree.
I have prioritized community outreach. As the only Spanish-speaker on my previous board, I worked to improve communication with our Spanish-speaking stakeholders. As the only board member whose cell number is published on my district’s website, I have been directly accessible to students and parents, city council members, and other local elected leaders.
Additionally, through my legislative advocacy for public education, I have developed relationships with state lawmakers and their staff. I look forward to bringing my track record, legislative insight, and “community first” approach to the SOCCCD Board.
Question: If your campaign had a mascot, what would it be and why? (Please answer in 200 words or fewer.)
Answer: My mascot is a cartoon of a Gila Monster, a humorous play on my name. Using a lighthearted drawing reflects who I am and how I operate — I’m open and accessible, and I’m not afraid to laugh at myself. I’ve always prioritized real connection with the community, which is why I’m the only CUSD board member who lists their personal cell number on the district’s website. I hope the cartoon communicates that I’m friendly and approachable, and that community members should never hesitate to get in touch. (Unlike a real Gila Monster, I promise I’m not venomous.)
Bonus question: What is the best book you’ve read this year? Explain why you found it compelling.
Answer: Most of the reading I do for pleasure is of books our schools are considering for adoption. My favorite recent read was “Klara and the Sun” by Kazuo Ishiguro.
Klara is a humanoid robot, called an Artificial Friend, for a child. While the author reports that AI chatbots and large language models were not his inspiration for the story, Klara had some similarities to them. Unlike a chatbot, however, Klara showed great curiosity about the world and genuinely enjoyed her relationships with humans. The character of Klara was unlike any I’d ever encountered in a book, and I was charmed by the way she interacted with people, her indefatigable optimism, and her many amusing yet logical misinterpretations of the world
From netfile.com search to see others like personal-to-campaign payments and other donations:
Gila Jones for College Trustee 2026 - paid to Cal Voter Guide - Slate mailer - 09/09/2026 $3,399.00
Gila Jones for College Trustee 2026 - paid to California Homeowners Voter Guide - Slate Mailer - 09/15/2026 $1,655.00
Gila Jones for College Board 2026 - paid to California Homeowners Voter Guide - 09/16/2026 $1,654.00
Gila Jones for College Trustee 2026 - paid to No Party Preference Voter Guide - Slate Mailer - 09/15/2026 $1,043.00
Carmenmara Hernandez-Bravo - paid to Gila Jones for College Trustee 2026 - 09/14/2026 $200.00
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South OC Community College District Area 4 Candidate
“JOHN BLACK | Military Officer/Educator
I, John Black, serving years as a Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, believe South Orange County's community colleges should open doors to good careers, four-year universities, skilled trades, military, public service, and entrepreneurship. I am running for the Board of Trustees to help students succeed while protecting taxpayer dollars.
I have spent my career as an educator, teaching, coaching, and mentoring students, including Marines, and serving as adjunct faculty, a distinguished fellow at MIT, and guest lecturer at universities. Learning changes lives; I have spent decades helping people learn, lead, and grow.
I have led large organizations and managed the public funds that support them. As Senior Emergency Management Program Coordinator for the Orange County Health Care Agency, I
strengthened disaster preparedness, improved accountability for funded programs, and coordinated planning serving millions of residents. I understand budgets, oversight, and stewardship of public resources.
I co-lead The JASSD Group and support veterans, first responders, and their families through Veterans FORWARD. My wife, Dr. Aime Black, our family, and I live in San Clemente.
As a Trustee, I will focus on student success, academic excellence, workforce partnerships, safe campuses, and transparent governance.
I would be honored to serve and respectfully ask for your vote.
www.johnblack4collegeboard.com”
Email: john@johnblack4collegeboard.com
Campaign Website: https://www.johnblack4collegeboard.com/ (Under Construction as of Aug 2026)
Priorities - see campaign site for details:
1. STUDENT SUCCESS: PATHWAYS TO CAREERS, MOBILITY, AND HIGHER PAY
2. SAFE, WELCOMING CAMPUSES (NOTE: He goes on to reference law enforcement in his explanation of this point)
3. FISCAL DISCIPLINE AND ACCOUNTABILITY
*. HOW I WILL SERVE: MISSION FIRST, PEOPLE ALWAYS
Any Other Interesting Info:
John Black is running as an openly far-right candidate for office. He’s advertised an endorsement on his campaign website from Moms on the Ground, a local, SoCal group that is affiliated with the larger Moms For Liberty organization and regularly collaborates with the OC Chair of Moms For Liberty, Madison Miner. His pages are filled with phrases about opposing ‘ideology’ and leading with ‘faith, family, freedom’.
From LinkedIn - Experience
Co-Founder & CEO - The JASSD Group Consulting Services / Veterans FORWARD · Full-time (Jan 2023 - Present · 3 yrs 10 mos)
Sr. Emergency Management Coordinator — OC HCA EMS, Health Disaster Preparedness (HDP) - County of Orange · Full-time (Aug 2025 - Apr 2026 · 9 mos)
Fellow - Business Advisory Services (Change Agility & Process Improvement) - Slalom · Internship (Aug 2022 - Dec 2022 · 5 mos)
Senior Director ( Commanding and Special Projects Officer ) - United States Marine Corps (Jul 2021 - Aug 2022 · 1 yr 2 mos)
Distinguished National Security Fellow - Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Jun 2020 - Jun 2021 · 1 yr 1 mo)
Senior Director ( Site Commander & Battalion Inspector-Instructor ) - 3d Battalion, 25th Marines, 4th Marine Division (Jun 2018 - Jun 2020 · 2 yrs 1 mo)
Director (Regimental Executive Officer ) - 4th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division & Camp Schwab, Marine Corps Installations Pacific · Full-time (May 2017 - Jun 2018 · 1 yr 2 mos)
Specialist in Defense and Security ( Adjunct Faculty Professor ) - Marine Corps University · Part-time (Aug 2017 - May 2018 · 10 mos)
Director & Sales Specialist ( Chief, Office of Defense Cooperation, American Embassy, NZ ) - U.S. Pacific Command · Full-time (Jun 2014 - May 2017 · 3 yrs)
Senior Manager & Sales Specialist ( Marine Corps Activities in Australia, NZ, & Oceania) - Marine Forces Pacific · Full-time (Feb 2012 - May 2014 · 2 yrs 4 mos)
From LinkedIn - Education
Harvard Business School - PLD, HBS Executive MBA Alternative (Jul 2020 – Jun 2022)
Massachusetts Institute of Technology - Fellow, International Relations and National Security Studies (Jun 2020 – Jun 2021)
Social Media Links:
Campaign Facebook - Posts starting September, 2026 all campaign related but last two regarding resources for those impacted by Norte fire.
Campaign Instagram - four posts all campaign related
LinkedIn - Regular posts, mostly reposts with comments
Not found on Twitter; Threads; TikTok; Bluesky; youTube
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
Kira Davis - anti-LGBTQ extremist in Capo USD who led a harassment campaign against a transgender teacher that resulted in an actual, legitimate bomb threat being sent to that school that the police had to investigate. That teacher has since resigned.
Carl DeMaio - conservative activist and politician who founded Reform California who expresses any LGBT and Trans views
Rooted Wings - far-right extremist involved in Sonja Shaw’s network.
Eagle Forum - far-right organization
Sonja Shaw - CVUSD Board president, CA Superintendent of Public Instruction candidate, EXTREME anti-LGBTQ
Turning Point USA (National)
Log Cabin OC (explicitly anti-trans)
Brad McGirr, Rancho Santa Margarita Councilman - candidate expressing anti-trans views
cali.maga.barbie - April Stone Silverman
madison4oc - Madison Miner, Chair of Moms For Liberty OC
sonjashaw2026 - Sonja Shaw, candidate for CA Superintendent of Public Instruction, EXTREMELY anti-LGBTQ
Kate Sanchez, CA State Assemblywoman who has authored and sponsored anti-LGBTQ bills in the legislature
National Faith Advisory Board, an explicitly Christian Nationalist organization that leads a network across the country and advises the Trump administration
Candidate’s Public Comments:
On his campaign instagram on October 18th, he said, “My values are simple: Faith, Family, and Service to Country. They guided my 26 years in the Marine Corps, and they’ll guide my work for our students and taxpayers. I’m honored to be endorsed by all five members of the Orange County Board of Education, the @ocgop, @lincolncluboc, @logcabinoc, and others.
As trustee, I’ll put students first, keep our campuses safe, protect every taxpayer dollar, and make sure our colleges teach skills, not ideology.” (x)
John William Black, South Orange County Community College District Area 4 candidate, 2026 election questionnaire - By Kaitlyn Schallhorn | kschallhorn@scng.com - PUBLISHED: October 5, 2026 at 2:18 PM PDT
What are the top two needs of your college district, and how are you prepared to address them? (Please answer in 200 words or fewer.)
In general, a college education can be very expensive; however, community colleges put a college education within reach for all students. At $46 per unit, community colleges offer a quality education at an affordable price.
South Orange County Community College District (SOCCCD) is fortunate to be funded by local property taxes as a basic aid district, not reliant on Sacramento for its general operations funding. This independence gives the board greater flexibility to fund infrastructure projects and its curriculum, and it positions SOCCCD to attract, hire, develop, and retain the best faculty. As a result, WalletHub ranks Saddleback College No. 1 in California and Irvine Valley College No. 5 in California, and both are ranked in the top 25 schools nationally.
Our top two needs are clear: Keep education affordable and within reach for every student, and manage the district’s revenues and expenditures so this competitive advantage survives. That is the work I am prepared for: I managed Marine Corps programs worth up to $2.21 billion, taught and advised college students, and read budgets the way a homeowner would, because I am one. Disciplined stewardship will guarantee that students continue to have access to top-quality education at an affordable price.
To you, what is the role of community college in education? Is it driving policy, being involved in curriculum, something else entirely? (Please answer in 200 words or fewer.)
I was the first person in my family to graduate from college. Unfortunately, it took me 15 years to pay off the loans. I remember what that debt felt like and the choices it cost me and my family, and I ran into plenty of people along the way who never finished college because it was too expensive. I don’t want people to have to go through what I went through.
A community college exists so that story doesn’t have to repeat. It makes education accessible and affordable. Community college sets students up for success, with a credible path to a well-paying career and a life of purpose, whether it runs through university transfer, a nursing or other professional license, a skilled trade, or service in law enforcement, fire, healthcare, or the military.
Today, community colleges also offer students a place not only to learn but to build an important social network on campus, along with critical paid internships and apprenticeships.
As for policy and curriculum: The Board of Trustees drives policy through high-level governance, and faculty drive curriculum. The board’s job is to align resources so faculty can deliver the best and most appropriate curriculum for students.
In October, Long Beach City College will break ground on a new student housing facility at its Liberal Arts Campus that will provide 431 total units to students. Is student housing a priority that your college should pursue? If so, explain how you intend to take on such an endeavor in a timely, cost-effective manner. If you don’t, how should your college district support students searching for affordable housing options near campus? (Please answer in 200 words or less.)
Yes. The Board of Trustees recently approved planning to provide affordable student housing on its campuses, at a current anticipated cost of roughly $180 million. Affordable student housing is a critical component that nearly every student needs.
In Orange County, housing rental costs are extremely high. The district intends to provide student housing at less than 20% of area median income. By making student housing extremely affordable, students can focus on their education instead of working multiple jobs to pay rent or commuting long distances.
The Board of Trustees and administration are reviewing a variety of financing options, following the district’s own funding sequence: state housing grants first, with a portion of basic aid property tax receipts and other infrastructure financing tools. I spent 26 years leading teams on critical missions in challenging environments, delivering large projects on time and on budget with someone else’s money, and seeking out funding opportunities. I know how projects slip, and how to keep them from slipping.
What actions would you suggest to prevent a cyberattack similar to the Canvas data breach in May? How can your district ensure students’ information is safe? (Please answer in 200 words or less.)
Start with an honest premise: The Canvas breach happened inside the vendor, not on any campus. All 116 California community colleges run Canvas and were affected by the cybersecurity data breach.
The district’s technology leadership is already proactive. It recently invested in additional cybersecurity technology to further prevent data breaches and fraudulent enrollment.
My suggested actions target the vendor door the attackers used. I would add security requirements and breach notification to every vendor contract, give vendors only the student data they need, verify compliance with independent assessments, and drill the response before it is needed.
Fraudulent enrollment is one of the major problems facing California’s community colleges. Fake students and AI bots sign up through the admissions process and enroll in classes, taking legitimate seats from actual students and stealing financial aid. In a single recent year, scammers stole more than $13 million in federal and state financial aid statewide, and at the peak, roughly one in three applications was flagged as suspicious.
I’m a member of the Association of Threat Assessment Professionals and the FBI’s InfraGard partnership, and I’ve spent a career protecting people and systems. Security is a standing obligation, not a crisis response.
How do you feel artificial intelligence is, or isn’t, safe in the classroom? In what instances should it be expanded in the classroom? What about when it should be limited? (Please answer in 200 words or less.)
AI is already in the classroom. Google put Gemini and NotebookLM in front of 2 million students and faculty statewide, and the Chancellor’s Office issued safety guidance this spring. The question isn’t whether to allow it, but whether we govern it or let it govern us.
Expand it where it builds capability: midnight tutoring for a working student, practice questions for a nursing candidate, robot programming for a machinist, and readiness for a workforce that already uses these tools. I use AI daily. It’s a strong assistant and a poor substitute for judgment.
Limit it where it erodes what college exists to build: thinking, writing, and defending a position. No AI should grade a student’s work without a human reading it. No student data should feed a tool the district hasn’t vetted. Every syllabus should say plainly what’s allowed; a rule students can’t find isn’t a rule.
The board sets policy, not pedagogy; faculty decide how AI fits their courses. Our district wrote AI guidelines for employees. Students deserve the same protections in board policy, with a published list of vetted tools and published results, so nobody learns less because a machine did the work.
How do you believe schools can better teach or engage students in civil discourse? How would you like to see your district tackle this issue? (Please answer in 200 words or less.)
You can’t effectively teach civil discourse from a slide deck. Students learn it by practicing it: structured, supervised, and face-to-face with people who see the world differently.
The best model I’ve seen is Braver Angels, built on the rule that both sides show up in equal numbers. Its College Debates and Discourse Alliance, run with BridgeUSA and the American Council of Trustees and Alumni, puts students on their feet wrestling with real contested questions, then requires them to listen, reflect, and disagree accurately without contempt.
I want our district to bring Braver Angels-style debates to Saddleback College and Irvine Valley College, inviting students, faculty, and residents into the same room. The Board of Trustees’ role is to level-set expectations and create an environment that is welcoming to all students, regardless of their personal beliefs or political ideologies.
I served 26 years with Americans and allies of every political stripe. Disagreement never stopped us from finishing the mission. Our students deserve that same training: courage, humility, discipline, dignity, and respect.
What experiences and priorities do you bring to this role? What have you learned in prior leadership roles that makes you the person for the job? (Please answer in 200 words or less.)
I joined the Marine Corps in 1996, after college, and served for 26 years. I commanded an 841-person security and emergency services battalion and managed programs worth up to $2.21 billion. I’ve also taught and advised college students, helped write and refine grants, and built veteran suicide-prevention partnerships across Orange County. I’m a first-generation graduate who took 15 years to pay off student loans. I know what a tuition bill feels like. As a trustee, I want to ensure current students don’t graduate with insurmountable debt.
My priorities: Disciplined finances, more Area 4 families in the Promise and Emeritus programs that already exist, campuses that are physically and digitally safe, and a credible career pathway for every student.
Leadership taught me a few things. Meet people where they are, and treat everyone with dignity and respect. Listen to understand, not to reply. Get clear on the mission, then align every dollar and every hour to what matters most. When new information arrives, adjust; a plan that ignores changing conditions is a liability. And no one succeeds alone. A district of nearly 70,000 students works only when trustees, the chancellor, faculty, staff, and the community pull together.
If your campaign had a mascot, what would it be and why? (Please answer in 200 words or fewer.)
A pack mule.
The Marine Corps still teaches mule packing in the Sierra because when the roads end and the helicopters can’t fly, a mule gets the supplies up the mountain and the wounded back down. Nobody puts a mule on a recruiting poster. It just does the work.
That’s the kind of trustee I want to be. A mule carries more than its share without complaint. It’s sure-footed on bad ground, which is useful when you’re managing a budget of nearly $1 billion a year, when expenses outrun revenue. It’s stubborn about the right things: It won’t step off a cliff because someone in a hurry told it to. And it’s patient enough to walk beside people who are still finding their footing, which is what a community college does for a first-generation student, a veteran coming home, or a parent going back to finish a degree.
Bonus question: What is the best book you’ve read this year? Explain why you found it compelling.
“Higher Love” by Kit DesLauriers.
My wife and I met Kit this summer at the Veterans Talking to Veterans Stronger Together Summit in Dubois, Wyoming, and read the book afterward. In 2006, Kit became the first person to climb, then ski, the highest peak on every continent, finishing on Everest with her husband beside her. What stayed with me isn’t the skiing. It’s how she pursues excellence. Kit is candid about fear, asking for help, and paying her own way when nobody was handing out money. She treats risk as something you manage with judgment and good partners, not something you pretend away. And the summit is only half the job. The descent, where you’re tired and margins are thin, is where people get hurt.
I read it as a mountaineer and man of faith who has stood on high places and felt small, and as a husband whose best climbs were never solo. Both keep a person honest at altitude and in office. The book is a hero’s journey. So is every student’s adventure. Getting them in is the climb. Getting them through, safely and whole, is the descent. Finish what you start, with people you love beside you.
Endorsed by:
Nancy’s Picks - Nancy’s Picks (far-right voter guide in Orange County, whose criteria for endorsement include “PRO-LIFE & PROTECTIONS for the UNBORN”, “PRO-SANCTITY of HETEROSEXUAL MARRIAGE”, “PRO-PARENTAL RIGHTS in EDUCATION”, “PRO-NUCLEAR FAMILY”, “SUPPORT FOR ISRAEL and IT’S RIGHT to EXIST”, “SECURE & SEAL OUR BORDERS”, and more.
Moms on the Ground — California parental-rights advocacy group that has worked in coalition with Moms for Liberty and other organizations promoting parental-rights and school-choice/charter-school policies. (momsonthegroundca, Moms for Liberty)
Reform California - (far-right organization led by Carl DeMaio)
Some from Campaign site - see for more:
Log Cabin Republicans of Orange County (explicitly anti-trans group)
Lincoln Club of Orange County
Republican Party of Orange County
Candidate in the News:
None found outside the questionnaire above
Public Voting Record:
None found, has not held office yet
From netfile.com - only listing those for $1k or more,, search site for more:
John Black - paid to John Black - 08/31/2026 $1,800.00
John Black - paid to Victory Fundraising and Events - 9/05/2026 $1,500.00
John Black - paid to John Black - 08/20/2026 $1,400.00
John Black - paid to John Black - 10/05/2026 $1,200.00
John Black - paid to CAMPAIGN FOR MENTAL HEALTH - YESON63.ORG - COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH PROVIDERS, FAMILIES, AND CONSUMERS, AND OTHER SUPPORTERS OF INCREASED MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES FUNDING - 09/29/2004 $1,100.00
John Black - paid to John Black - 08/26/2026 $1,020.00
John Black - paid to Lysa Ray Campaign Services - 08/24/2026 $1,000.00
John Williams - paid to John Black - 10/09/2026 $1,000.00
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South OC Community College District Area 4 Candidate
“KARIMA FELDHUS | AGE: 62 | Executive Dean
It is an honor to seek your vote for the South Orange County Community College District Board of Trustees.
For more than 30 years, I have dedicated my career to public higher education. I have had the privilege of serving as a dean at both Irvine Valley College and Saddleback College, working alongside faculty, staff, administrators, and community partners to expand educational opportunities and strengthen our colleges.
As Executive Dean of Extended Learning at Saddleback College, I oversee programs that provide lifelong learning, workforce training, adult education, and community education to thousands of students each year. I have managed multimillion-dollar budgets, secured grant funding, and developed partnerships that prepare students for meaningful careers while meeting local workforce needs.
As your trustee, I will promote academic excellence, student success, fiscal responsibility, and accountability. I believe public service means listening, making thoughtful decisions, respecting
diverse perspectives, and ensuring responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. My commitment is to preserve the district’s tradition of excellence while expanding opportunities that benefit students, employees, employers, and our community.
I bring experience, integrity, and a collaborative approach to governance. I would be honored to earn your trust and your vote.”
Email: karimafortrustee@gmail.com
Campaign Website: https://karimafortrustee.com/
Priorities:
Put students first and protect academic excellence
Safeguard precious taxpayer dollars through accountability and responsible stewardship
Keep our colleges affordable and accessible
Support outstanding faculty and staff
Strengthen career and workforce pathways
Expand opportunities for students at every stage of life
Provide independent, experienced leadership focused on results
Any Other Interesting Info:
From LinkedIn - Experience
Academic Administrator - Saddleback College · Full-time (Oct 2016 - Present · 10 yrs 1 mo)
Dean of Liberal Arts and AANAPISI - Irvine Valley College (Nov 2015 - Sep 2016 · 11 mos)
Irvine Valley College - 7 yrs 2 mos
Dean, Humanities and Languages, Social and Behavioral Sciences, and Library Services - Jan 2009 - Aug 2015 · 6 yrs 8 mos
Dean of Business Science and Fine Arts - Jul 2008 - Dec 2008 · 6 mos
Dean of Business and Social Sciences - Long Beach City College (Nov 2007 - Jun 2008 · 8 mos)
Dean of the Schools of Humanities & Languages and Fine Arts - Irvine Valley College (Jan 2005 - Oct 2007 · 2 yrs 10 mos)
Associate Dean of Fine Arts and Language Arts - San Jacinto College (Jul 2002 - Jan 2005 · 2 yrs 7 mos)
Director of the Language Acquisition Center - University of Houston (1998 – 2002)
Instructional Technology Specialist/Director of the Modern Languages Lab - St. Mary's College of Maryland (1997 – 1998)
Assistant Professor - Emporia State University (Aug 1995 - Dec 1997 · 2 yrs 5 mos)
Assistant Professor - Ecole normale supérieure de Kouba (Oct 1987 - Aug 1990 · 2 yrs 11 mos)
LinkedIn - Education
The University of Kansas - Ph.D., Curriculum and Instruction
The University of Kansas - Master's degree, Linguistics
University of Algiers - Bachelor's degree, ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE/LETTERS
Social Media Links:
Campaign Facebook - Regular posts starting August 2026 - all are campaign related messaging
Personal Facebook - Regular posts starting October 2022 - mix of personal, career and campaign
Personal Instagram - Posts starting January, 2016 - personal topics, most recently about campaigning
Personal Threads - No activity or private account
Personal TikTok - Account is private
Campaign YouTube - 13 Videos
LinkedIn - Continuous and regular posts for years
Not found on Twitter; Bluesky;
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
Stephanie Oddo - running for Laguna Niguel City Council
barackobama - Barack Obama
geoffbaumforpcc - Geoff Baum for PCC Board
cagovernor - Governor Gavin Newsom
Candidate’s Public Comments:
Karima Feldhus, South Orange County Community College District Area 4 candidate, 2026 election questionnaire - By Kaitlyn Schallhorn | kschallhorn@scng.com - PUBLISHED: October 5, 2026 at 2:19 PM PDT
What are the top two needs of your college district, and how are you prepared to address them? (Please answer in 200 words or fewer.)
The two most important needs of our district are preparing students for a changing economy and protecting the long-term financial strength of our colleges.
First, Saddleback College and Irvine Valley College must continue preparing students for transfer, good jobs, career advancement, and lifelong learning. AI and technology are changing the workplace quickly, and our colleges need to stay ahead of those changes. That means listening to employers, strengthening partnerships, and making sure our programs give students the education and skills they need to succeed.
Second, we must remain fiscally strong. I believe every precious taxpayer dollar should support our educational mission and benefit students. Board decisions should be transparent, based on good data, and made with an understanding of their long-term impact.
I am prepared to address both because I have spent 21 years serving Saddleback and Irvine Valley colleges. I know our programs, budgets, operations, students, and communities. I have developed programs, managed large budgets, and built partnerships that open doors for students. As a trustee, I would bring that experience to every decision and always ask: Does this strengthen our colleges and create better opportunities for students?
To you, what is the role of community college in education? Is it driving policy, being involved in curriculum, something else entirely? (Please answer in 200 words or fewer.)
Community colleges are essential to providing accessible, affordable education and creating pathways to universities, careers, and lifelong learning. They serve students at every stage of life, from recent high school graduates and working adults to career changers and older adults.
For a governing board, the role is to set clear policy and strategic direction, ensure fiscal responsibility, and hold the district accountable for serving students and the community. Trustees should ask tough questions, examine outcomes, and ensure taxpayer dollars are used wisely. They should not micromanage curriculum or day-to-day college operations. Curriculum belongs primarily with faculty through established academic and shared-governance processes.
Having spent 21 years in leadership at Saddleback College and Irvine Valley College, I understand the important distinction between governance and administration. As a trustee, I would focus on the big picture: protecting access and affordability, supporting excellent academic and workforce programs, maintaining strong fiscal stewardship, and ensuring our colleges continue adapting to the changing needs of students, employers, and the communities we serve.
In October, Long Beach City College will break ground on a new student housing facility at its Liberal Arts Campus that will provide 431 total units to students. Is student housing a priority that your college should pursue? If so, explain how you intend to take on such an endeavor in a timely, cost-effective manner. If you don’t, how should your college district support students searching for affordable housing options near campus? (Please answer in 200 words or less.)
I strongly support the Board of Trustees’ decision to move forward with student housing at Saddleback College and Irvine Valley College. As a trustee, my goal would be clear: make housing an affordable pathway to student success while protecting taxpayers and our colleges’ core educational mission.
Housing should prioritize students with demonstrated financial need or housing insecurity who are pursuing degrees, certificates, transfer, and career education pathways. In Orange County, housing costs can be a significant barrier to completing college. Affordable student housing can provide the stability students need to remain enrolled and complete their education.
As a trustee, I would insist on clear and equitable eligibility criteria, realistic financial projections, transparent costs, and ongoing accountability. Success should be measured not simply by the number of beds provided, but by whether housing helps students stay in school, complete their education, transfer, and move into good careers.
Tax dollars are precious, and every major investment must demonstrate value to students and the public. Our primary mission is education. I would move student housing forward in a fiscally responsible and sustainable way while protecting funding for instruction, academic programs, and essential student services.
What actions would you suggest to prevent a cyberattack similar to the Canvas data breach in May? How can your district ensure students’ information is safe? (Please answer in 200 words or less.)
Protecting student information must be a fundamental responsibility of the district. In my 21 years of leadership at Saddleback and Irvine Valley colleges, I have seen how dependent our students, faculty, and staff have become on technology and how important it is to protect the information entrusted to us. Cybersecurity is not simply an IT issue; it is an institutional responsibility.
The district must maintain strong cybersecurity standards, including multi-factor authentication, regular security updates and assessments, secure data backups, employee training, and appropriate access controls. We also rely on outside technology providers, so our contracts must hold vendors accountable for protecting student data and promptly reporting breaches.
Just as important, we need a regularly tested response plan so that if a breach occurs, the district can act quickly, communicate clearly, and assist those affected.
As a trustee, I would expect regular reporting on cybersecurity risks, preparedness, vendor compliance, and response planning. I have spent much of my career working with budgets, technology implementation, compliance, and institutional operations. I understand that good governance means asking questions before problems occur, investing wisely in prevention, and making the protection of student information an ongoing priority.
How do you feel artificial intelligence is, or isn’t, safe in the classroom? In what instances should it be expanded in the classroom? What about when it should be limited? (Please answer in 200 words or less.)
Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing education and the workplace. Our responsibility is to prepare students for that reality while protecting academic integrity, critical thinking, privacy, and the human interaction that is central to learning.
AI should be expanded when it enhances learning; for example, helping students explore ideas, receive appropriate tutoring support, develop workplace skills, analyze information, or learn how AI is being used in their chosen professions. Students should graduate knowing how to use these tools responsibly and how to evaluate their accuracy and limitations.
At the same time, AI should not replace a student’s own thinking, writing, problem-solving, or creativity. Its use should be limited when it undermines the learning objectives of an assignment, compromises academic integrity, exposes confidential information, or substitutes technology for meaningful interaction with faculty.
I do not believe a governing board should dictate classroom-by-classroom use of AI. Faculty should establish appropriate academic standards and guardrails within their disciplines, supported by clear district policies on privacy, security, ethics, and academic integrity. The goal should be responsible innovation: embracing useful technology while preserving the quality and integrity of education.
How do you believe schools can better teach or engage students in civil discourse? How would you like to see your district tackle this issue? (Please answer in 200 words or less.)
Community colleges should be places where students feel comfortable expressing their views, listening to different perspectives, and learning from one another. We do not have to agree on every issue, but we should be able to disagree respectfully.
I have seen the value of this through my work with Saddleback College’s Emeritus Institute. Our older adult students bring tremendous life and professional experience to the classroom. They have lived through different periods of history, raised families, built careers, and contributed to their communities. There is a great deal our younger students can learn from them, and they can learn from younger generations as well. I would like to see more opportunities for that kind of intergenerational exchange.
We can also encourage civil discourse through student forums, moderated discussions, guest speakers with different perspectives, and activities that teach students to evaluate information, question assumptions, and distinguish facts from opinions.
As a trustee, I would support free expression and respectful dialogue. I do not believe our colleges should tell students what to think. Our role is to educate them, expose them to different ideas, and give them the critical thinking skills to reach their own informed conclusions.
What experiences and priorities do you bring to this role? What have you learned in prior leadership roles that makes you the person for the job? (Please answer in 200 words or less.)
Community colleges open doors. I know firsthand what this opportunity means. As a first-generation college student, I worked entry-level jobs while putting myself through school and raising a family. I understand students balancing education, work, family, and financial responsibilities because I have walked in their shoes.
For 21 years at Irvine Valley College and Saddleback College, I have dedicated my career to creating opportunities for others. At IVC, as dean of multiple schools, I supported students pursuing transfer, academic achievement, and careers.
At Saddleback, I lead Extended Learning programs serving diverse communities. Our Emeritus Institute serves more than 5,000 older adults. Adult Education provides high school equivalency and English-language pathways to education and employment. Through OASIS, adults with disabilities develop independent living and workforce skills, including training at Kaiser Permanente. Foster and Kinship Care Education supports Orange County families. Eight years leading Extended Learning have deepened my understanding of our communities’ diverse needs.
This is what community colleges do best: meet people where they are and open doors to opportunity. After serving our colleges and communities, I feel called to continue that service as a trustee. My knowledge of our district and the people we serve has prepared me to lead at the Board level, with fiscal responsibility, accountability, and a focus on student success.
If your campaign had a mascot, what would it be and why? (Please answer in 200 words or fewer.)
I would probably choose an owl. Owls represent wisdom and experience, which I think are important qualities for a trustee.
After spending more than 30 years working in education, I’ve learned that you don’t always need to be the loudest person in the room. Sometimes you need to listen, pay attention, ask good questions, and then make the best decision you can.
And an owl seems appropriate for a college district. It represents learning and knowledge, and it keeps its eyes open. I plan to do the same, especially when it comes to how we spend taxpayer dollars.
Plus, I just like owls!
Bonus question: What is the best book you’ve read this year? Explain why you found it compelling.
The best book I’ve read this year is “The Geography of Bliss” by Eric Weiner, which I read as part of Saddleback College’s One Book, One College program.
I enjoyed his exploration of happiness across different cultures and especially his focus on community, belonging, purpose, and human connection. These ideas resonated with me because I see every day in education how important it is for people to feel connected and have a sense of purpose. I also had the pleasure of meeting Eric during his visit to Saddleback and continuing our conversation over coffee at Peet’s Café. That made the book even more meaningful to me and left me thinking about what makes both a fulfilling life and a strong community.
Endorsed by:
From campaign site - see site for more:
Dr. Dixie Bullock - Retired College President · Acting SOCCCD Chancellor
Dean of Health Sciences and Nursing Professor
Carolyn Inmon - President, South Orange County Community College District Board of Trustees
Paul Medina - Former Member, California Community Colleges Board of Governors and Calbright College Board of Trustees
Candidate in the News:
None found outside of Social Media posts
Public Voting Record:
None found, has not held office yet
From netfile.com
Karima for Trustee 2026 - paid to COPS Voter Guide, Inc. - 08/24/2026 $2,534.00
Karima Feldhus for SOCCD Trustee 2026 - paid to COPS Voter Guide, Inc. - 08/24/2026 $2,534.00
Irvine Ranch Water District
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Irvine Ranch Water District Board Candidate
“PEER A. SWAN | Director, Irvine Ranch Water District, Area 5
As a Director of the Irvine Ranch Water District for 46 years, I have played a large role in making the District a nationally recognized leader. We pioneered the use of recycled water,
promoted conservation, funded a program to replace worn-out plant and equipment, fully funded retirement, and built a large emergency groundwater storage facility.
IRWD has gone from 95% dependency on expensive imported water to where more than 85% of our water is local, more reliable and less costly.
We have achieved this high level of service and reliability while maintaining rates that are by far the lowest in the County.
I spearheaded the creation of the San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary where urban runoff is naturally treated, while providing needed habitat and accessible public open space.
As a Founding Director and Chairman for four years of the National Water Research Institute we funded research to improve water quality.
You have my continued commitment to keep the District an innovative leader dedicated to quality service that is low priced, environmentally sensitive, and consistent with the high standards of the community we live in.
Please Re-elect Peer Swan”
Email: Available via a contact page on his campaign website.
Campaign Website: https://www.peerswan.com
Priorities:
Reliable, Clean Water with Lowest Rates
Community Public Access to IRWD Facilities
The San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary
No Unfunded Retirement Liability
Any Other Interesting Info:
Peer Swan was elected to the Board of Directors in 1979 and has been serving off-and-on since then, including 15 years as the Director of the Board. He was most recently elected in 2022.
President: 1982 to 1995; 2006
Vice president: 1980, 1981, 1998, 2002, 2003, 2009, 2010, 2014, and 2017
Other positions include; (source)
Water Advisory Committee of Orange County (Fmr. Chairman),
Metropolitan Water District Board of Directors (member)
Orange County Sanitation Board (member for 15 years, Vice-chair for 6)
Ground Water Replenishment Joint Committee (Founding board member)
Southern California Water Committee (Treasurer)
San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary (Fmr. President)
Steering Committee of the Southern California Water Dialog Committee (member)
Association of California Water Agencies (Fmr. Board of Directors)
California Association of Sanitation Agencies (Fmr. Chairman of Directors Committee)
Water Supply Pillar of the One Water One Watershed (member)
Board of the Urban Water Institute (member)
Per two LA Times articles, Peer ran for Congress as a Republican in the late 1980s. (x) (x) He lost to another Republican, Christopher Cox.
Social Media Links:
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
None Found
Candidate’s Public Comments:
Per his campaign website, “As a statewide leader in the water community, I understand the complex legal, environmental, and infrastructure challenges facing California water. In times of drought and climate uncertainty, my deep institutional knowledge of the statewide system ensures our local supply remains safe, steady and secure.”
Swan responded to the OC Register’s candidate questionnaire:
Question: Tell us what your No. 1 priority is for this office, should you be elected.
Answer: “To maintain and enhance the most reliable and high-quality water supply in the county while continuing to provide it to our customers at the lowest cost in the county.
Question: What does this department do for citizens? What do you view as its most important role for residents, and why?
Answer: “Water is an essential need, and I work to provide a highly reliable supply of it to our customers. We also collect and reprocess sewer water to provide reliable irrigation water. Finally, we treat urban runoff prior to it reaching the protected environment of Newport’s Back Bay. We built the San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary on 300 acres of district land to provide needed habitat and opened it to the public for their enjoyment. The site also inexpensively removes excess nutrients from the water prior to reaching the sensitive Upper Newport Bay — a win-win-win solution.”
Question: Your neighbors may not be so familiar with this office on their ballot. How would you promote more general knowledge of the district and the importance of its work?
Answer: “We provide essential water deliveries, treat and convert the resulting wastewater to create a highly reliable supply of irrigation water and treat urban water runoff using natural processes to protect the sensitive Upper Newport Bay”
Question: What experiences and priorities do you bring to this role? What have you learned in prior leadership roles that makes you the person for the job?
Answer: My service includes membership on the boards of the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California,, Orange County Sanitation District, Association of California Water District’s, Urban Water Institute, and the National Water Research Institute where I worked,to improve water quality, increase water reliability while controlling costs.
Question: What will you do to establish trust with your community that you will tackle this job well?
Answer: “Being nationally recognized as an innovative leader in the water industry, fully funding the district’s retirement obligations, developing a highly reliable water supply while keeping rates the lowest in the county.”
Bonus question: What is the best book you’ve read this year? Explain why you found it compelling.
Answer: “‘Sapiens’ and the sequel ‘Homo Deus’ which explore the author’s view of the evolution of humans and the societies that they live in and project this journey into the AI future.”
Endorsed by:
Candidate in the News:
OC Register: Peer Swan, Irvine Ranch Water District Division 5 candidate, 2026 election questionnaire
Public Voting Record:
None Found
In 2014, the PAC “Friends of Peer Swan” contributed $2,000 to “Continuing the Republican Revolution”.
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Irvine Ranch Water District Board Candidate
“JEFFREY HARLAN | Attorney/Planning Commissioner
After 45 years of the same, we need new leadership for Division 5. I bring not only the experience and expertise, but also a fresh perspective to guide the Irvine Ranch Water District through this critical time.
For more than 20 years, I have been a dedicated Orange County public servant and community volunteer. As the first City Councilmember representing Eastside Costa Mesa, I helped create
and renovate neighborhood parks, deliver new bike lanes, upgrade streets and alleys, and expand police and fire services. With my leadership, our Council delivered balanced budgets every year.
As a land use attorney and Chair of the Planning Commission, I have committed my 30-year career to working with governments to improve communities and protect our environment. I understand all aspects of responsible development, including preserving our
water supply, conserving natural resources and open space, and investing in our infrastructure.
I graduated from the University of Pennsylvania, and earned a law degree focusing on environmental law from Vermont Law School.
As your Director, I will ensure our precious resources are protected so you can enjoy a safe, reliable, and affordable water supply.
I appreciate your consideration and hope to earn your vote.
Email:
Campaign Website: https://www.harlan4water.com/
Priorities:
“RATE INCREASES ARE UNCONTROLLED
Every year, we are subjected to a rate increase. We've faced jumps of nearly 50 percent over the last 5 years alone. I will ensure an open and transparent discussion to help manage costs and keep the IRWD budget in check.
WE NEED A MODERN VISION
My opponent has occupied the Board seat for over 46 years! He hasn't had a contested race since 2018. No one is entitled to a lifetime tenure, and such institutional entrenchment is not good for any organization. I will bring a fresh and diverse perspective.
GREATER TRANSPARENCY & ACCOUNTABILITY
The public cannot participate remotely in Board meetings. In today's electronic age, this is unacceptable and reasonable. Every customer should be able to conveniently watch, join in, and later review a Board meeting without having to drive to Irvine.”
Any Other Interesting Info:
Harlan served on the Costa Mesa City Council from 2020-2024, running for reelection in 2024 on the platforms listed below. He lost this reelection race to Jeff Pettis, an openly MAGA candidate.
Tackling Homelessness
Ensuring Public Safety & Reducing Crime
Preserving & Enhancing Eastside Neighborhoods
Planning for Smart Growth Citywide
Investing in Costa Mesa
Protecting The Environment
Creating Safer Streets for Cyclists & Pedestrians
Reimagining Public Spaces
Between 2010 and 2012, Jeffrey wrote a weekly column for the Los Angeles Times' Daily Pilot newspaper where he covered civic affairs, urban planning, and business. (x)
While serving on the Costa Mesa City Council, he attended the annual June raising of the Pride Flag at City Hall every year.
Harlan was appointed as Chair of the Costa Mesa Planning Commission in June 2025. (x)
He’s an attorney, with a law degree from the Vermont Law and Graduate School. He specialized in Environmental and Land Use law. (x)
Jeff attended OC Pride 2024 with then-Mayor John Stephens, and was photographed holding a Pride flag and smiling. This was a ticketed event held at the OC Fairgrounds in Costa Mesa. (x) (x)
Social Media Links:
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
Orange Coast Huddle
OC Young Dems
Human Rights Campaign OC/Long Beach
Voter Choice Irvine
Andy Godinez for NMUSD Area 7 (Progressive candidate for NMUSD)
Costa Mesa Democrats
Orange County Employee Association (Union)
Costa Mesa Alliance for Better Streets
Robert Garcia (openly gay Congressman)
Costa Mesa Mutual Aid
Chris Kluwe for Assembly
UNITE HERE Local 11
Candidate’s Public Comments:
Harlan responded to the OC Register’s candidate questionnaire:
Question: Tell us what your No. 1 priority is for this office, should you be elected.
Answer: “My priority is to ensure that the Irvine Ranch Water District provides safe, reliable, and affordable water to its customers. Unfortunately, repeated IRWD rate increases have pushed the average residential water bill up nearly 40% over recent years.
I want to ensure 1) customers are receiving the best value for their service, 2) our taxpayer dollars are invested wisely in necessary infrastructure, and 3) residents can participate easily in public meetings.
My opponent has held this seat for nearly five decades, and we need a fresh, modern, and diverse perspective to guide IRWD for the next 50 years.
Question: What does this department do for citizens? What do you view as its most important role for residents, and why?
Answer: “Safeguarding our water resources is of paramount importance. As the IRWD Director for District 5, my role will be to represent — and advocate for the specific needs of — the communities in southern Irvine (including UCI, Turtle Rock, and the IBC), parts of Newport Beach (Santa Ana Heights, Newport Coast), and a portion of Eastside Costa Mesa.
As a former city councilmember and community advocate for 20 years, I recognize the importance of working directly with residents, businesses, and local organizations to make the best decisions for our communities. Good governance requires not just technical knowledge, but also understanding a community’s interests, concerns, and aspirations.”
Question: Your neighbors may not be so familiar with this office on their ballot. How would you promote more general knowledge of the district and the importance of its work?
Answer: “For most people, the only connection to the water district is turning on your tap and getting your monthly bill. But if people want to learn more or engage in the board’s activities, then it should be easy to do so.
Unfortunately, today the public cannot participate remotely in board meetings. I want to improve accessibility and transparency — every customer should be able to conveniently watch, join in, and review a board meeting without having to drive to Irvine.”
Question: What experiences and priorities do you bring to this role? What have you learned in prior leadership roles that makes you the person for the job?
Answer: “For more than 30 years, I’ve dedicated my career to working with governments to improve our communities and protect our environment. As a former city councilmember and current chair of the Costa Mesa Planning Commission, I have an intimate understanding of not only creating public policy, but also how to implement it.
I have worked closely with neighbors, local businesses, and other public agencies to deliver new parks, roads and bike lanes, balanced budgets, and much-needed housing for our communities. And as a land use attorney and urban planner, I understand all aspects of responsible development, including preserving our water supply, conserving natural resources and open spaces, and investing in our infrastructure. Being a good public leader requires one to be thoughtful, accessible, and open-minded.”
Question: What will you do to establish trust with your community that you will tackle this job well?
Answer: “In every election campaign, I have spent countless hours walking precincts, talking to residents, and learning what is really important to our neighbors. That is the simplest way to build trust. Whether it’s leading a commission hearing, heading a public workshop, or attending a ribbon-cutting ceremony, I’ve continued that ongoing dialogue to inform my decision-making. I believe this is what the job of any public official demands, and I intend to take the same approach as the IRWD Director.”
Endorsed by:
United States Congressman Dave Min
California State Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris
Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley
City of Irvine Councilmember Kathleen Treseder
City of Costa Mesa Mayor John Stephens
Newport Mesa Unified School District Trustee Carol Crane
Mesa Water District Board Director Marice DePasquale
Coast Community College District Trustee Liz Dorn Parker
Candidate in the News:
OC Register: Jeffrey Harlan, Irvine Ranch Water District Division 5 candidate, 2026 election questionnaire
Public Voting Record:
While on the Costa Mesa City Council, he voted every year to acknowledge LGBTQ+ Pride Month and fly the Pride Flag during June.
Contributions to Harlan’s campaign are not publicly visible.
Harlan contributed to the following campaigns:
$100 to Katrina Foley for Supervisor 2026
$250 to Andy Godinez for NMUSD School Board 2026
$65 to Katrina Foley for Supervisor 2026
$200 to Rising Tide Community PAC
$157 to Katrina Foley for Supervisor 2026
$100 to Katrina Foley for Supervisor 2022
Municipal Water District of Orange County
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Municipal Water District of OC Division 2 Candidate
“LARRY D. DICK | Director Division 2, Municipal Water District of Orange County
Clean, reliable and affordable water doesn't just happen, it takes experienced leadership. As Division 2 Director on the Municipal Water District of Orange County (MWDOC) Board and currently serving as Board President, I remain devoted to developing reliable
and economical supplies of safe, high quality drinking water for our
communities.
For twenty years I represented Orange County as a Director of the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MET), serving 19 million Californians.
During my service on MET and MWDOC my top priorities were water quality and reliability, alongside environmental stewardship and water sustainability. Our region faces real challenges ahead: Uncertainty in Colorado River negotiations, growing impacts of climate change and continuing issues on the State Water Project, all requiring experienced leadership.
My experience extends across the water community, including the Executive Committee of the Special Districts of Orange County, member of the Water Advisory Committee of Orange County including two terms as President and a member of the Executive Committee of the Urban Water Institute.
I ask for your support in continuing this important work by casting your vote for me. Thank you for your consideration.
Respectfully
Larry Dick”
Email: None Found
Campaign Website: Larry does not appear to have a campaign website. All sources appear to lead to his official webpage on the OCMWD platform, which is not a campaign website.
Priorities:
None Found
Any Other Interesting Info:
Larry is an incumbent, having been first elected in 2000, 26 years ago. Prior to becoming a board member on the OC Municipal Water District, he served for several years on the Serrano Water District and SWD Recreation, Inc.
He’s on the board of directors at the OC Taxpayers Association - an organization that consistently aligns itself with and funds the campaigns of conservative candidates across Orange County, including candidates with openly anti-LGBTQ stances. This is not a 100% track record, as they’ve also supported moderate Democrats for office, but a general trend.
In general, the OC Taxpayers Association is fiscally conservative and business-focused, not overtly anti-LGBTQ. That said, candidates running on anti-LGBTQ or anti-immigrant, etc platforms, have not shown to be a line in the sand for the organization.
Larry endorsed AJ Ricci for Orange City Council. AJ is a conservative candidate who donated his own funds to the explicitly anti-LGBTQ slate of candidates running for Orange USD. (x)
In 2014, Dick held a campaign event for his re-election with hosts Ken Calvert (U.S. Congressman, Republican, deeply anti-LGBTQ, anti-POC, anti-woman voter record), Bob Huff (Fmr. Senate Republican Leader), Fred Whitaker (Fmr. Chair of the OC GOP, openly spoke about using transphobic propaganda in school board races to convert voters), and ‘special guest’ Kenneth L. Khachigian, Esq. (Former Senior Advisor to President Ronald Reagan). (x)
Larry’s campaign posts on his social media appear to be largely AI-Generated.
His campaign treasurer is Lysa Ray Campaign Services, which has also worked on the unsuccessful gubernatorial campaign for Travis Allen, who is considered to be "California's Trump." He has used the slogans "Take Back California" and "Make California Great Again" for his campaign. She also was the campaign treasurer for OC District Attorney Todd Spitzer, and was involved in a minor campaign finance controversy, where she took the blame for incorrectly filed financial information. And perhaps most importantly, Lysa Ray, who was compensated as a campaign strategist for this campaign, served as County Supervisor Andrew Do’s treasurer during the events that led to his current downfall and FBI investigation for financial corruption. Lysa Ray is representing anti-LGBTQ school board candidates and other conservative candidates up and down SoCal this election season, as well as the last election season.
Social Media Links:
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
OC Around the Table
Karl Seckel (his fellow Trustee, District 4, endorsed by OC Huddle)
Congressman Ken Calvert (Republican, voter record of opposition to LGBTQ rights, reproductive freedoms, any kind of regulatory control on ICE, etc)
Candidate’s Public Comments:
Dick responded to the OC Register’s candidate questionnaire:
Question: Tell us what your No. 1 priority is for this office, should you be elected.
Answer: “The goal is to continue to ensure that our water is safe, reliable, and abundant during all conditions and delivered in a cost-effective way to the residents of Orange County.”
Question: What does this department do for citizens? What do you view as its most important role for residents, and why?
Answer: “MWDOC provides a significant portion of the Orange County water supply, which is imported from the Colorado River or the State Water Project.
The department acts as a planning agency for Orange County water, offers water savings programs, facilitates leak detection services, and provides water emergency response efforts. We facilitate education programs for public and private schools. Most importantly, we regularly bring more money into the county, through grants and outside funding, than we cost our citizens.”
Question: Your neighbors may not be so familiar with this office on their ballot. How would you promote more general knowledge of the district and the importance of its work?
Answer: “The best way to promote the activities and value of MWDOC to the residents of OC is through outreach. I regularly speak at Rotary, Lions, and Chamber events on the services MWDOC provides, along with water supply reports. I would also encourage the public to visit our website as well as attend any one of our committee or board meetings to learn about the activities of the district.”
Question: What experiences and priorities do you bring to this role? What have you learned in prior leadership roles that makes you the person for the job?”
Answer: “For over 20 years, I represented Orange County as a director of the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MET), serving 19 million Californians. During my service on MET and MWDOC, I served as senior delegate, and my top priorities were water quality and reliability, alongside environmental stewardship and water sustainability.
Our region faces real challenges ahead: uncertainty in Colorado River negotiations, growing impacts of climate change and continuing issues on the State Water Project, all requiring experienced leadership.
My experience extends across the water community, including the executive committee of the Special Districts of Orange County, membership on the Water Advisory Committee of Orange County including two terms as president), and membership on the executive committee of the Urban Water Institute. I have learned that public service is rewarding and at times challenging. Sometimes there are no perfect answers, only the best answer to the current issue. At all times, the top priority is to provide safe and reliable water supplies.”
Question: What will you do to establish trust with your community that you will tackle this job well?
Answer: “It would be my hope that I have earned the trust of our community. I have served in leadership at our church, Rotary, the Santiago Canyon College Foundation Board, and the Chambers of Commerce in Orange and Garden Grove. I have always held sacred the trust given to my stewardship of assets, both fiscal and physical, as well as the importance of maintaining the good reputation of the organizations with which I am involved.”
Bonus question: What is the best book you’ve read this year? Explain why you found it compelling.
Answer: Declined to answer.
Endorsed by:
John Moorlach, Former State Senator. (Moorlach is a former state legislator out of Irvine, who received praise during his time in office from anti-LGBTQ hate group California Family Council for his reticence to support Concurrent Assembly Resolution 99 in 2019, which, among other things, urges religious leaders to counsel on LGBTQ matters from a place of love and compassion, while recognizing the psychological and emotional harms associated with conversion therapy.) (x) (x)
Nancy’s Picks - Nancy’s Picks (far-right voter guide in Orange County, whose criteria for endorsement include “PRO-LIFE & PROTECTIONS for the UNBORN”, “PRO-SANCTITY of HETEROSEXUAL MARRIAGE”, “PRO-PARENTAL RIGHTS in EDUCATION”, “PRO-NUCLEAR FAMILY”, “SUPPORT FOR ISRAEL and IT’S RIGHT to EXIST”, “SECURE & SEAL OUR BORDERS”, and more.
Dick does not have a campaign website listing his endorsements as far as we could tell.
Candidate in the News:
OC Register: Larry Dick, Municipal Water District of Orange County Division 2 candidate, 2026 election questionnaire
Public Voting Record:
None Found
$1,000 from Townsend Public Affairs Inc (a Newport-Beach based lobbying firm whose campaign donations seem to span the political spectrum)
Larry’s own political campaign contributions to other candidates appear to be somewhat bipartisan.
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Municipal Water District of OC Division 2 Candidate
Candidate Statement: None Found
Email: None Found
Campaign Website: None Found - but you can find his campaign website for his presidential campaign here.
Priorities:
None Found
Any Other Interesting Info:
Armando is a perennial candidate who shows up on ballots most election cycles.. Here’s his “Armando for President” campaign website. (x)
His rhetoric is far right sprinkled with a handful of left rhetoric. He is in favor of a 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.”
In Orange County, he’s also run for the OC Board of Education and the Orange County Municipal Water Board.
He has made a number of posts on his Twitter account representing; Bibi Netanyahu as Hitler, the Israeli flag with the swastika, while acknowledging the genocide of the Palestinian people.
Social Media Links:
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
None Found
Candidate’s Public Comments:
The following is the full essay on his campaign page for his 2028 Presidential Run (separate from his 2024 Presidential Run). “I am Armando "Mando" Perez-Serrato and I will be running for President of the United States of America in 2028 as I did in 2024. I will be running as a working-class Democratic candidate.
In 2024, I had the foresight and courage to run against Biden and the Democratic Establishment because I knew they were going to lose and they did. If you want to win in 2028 #VoteMando.
For 2028, the Democratic Establishment will abandon democracy yet again by Anointing Gavin Newsom and he will lose just like Kamala. They both have the same policies, come from the same place, and believe in the same things that have resulted in Catastrophic results here in California. They both destroyed San Francisco together, they both destroyed California together and now they both want to destroy America together.
Voters in swing states will not vote for them because they don't want their state to turn into California. Here in California Gavin Newsom and Kamala Harris are responsible for making crime legal, rent/ mortgage is the highest in the country, highest taxes, highest grocery/gas prices, taxpayers paying for transgender surgeries, open borders, Billions in fraud of tax payer money and a homeless apocalypse. Men especially, younger men 18-35 and Latinos will not vote for Gavin Newsom or Kamala Harris as proven in 2024.
The Democratic Party needs new, younger and dynamic candidates like me that put the working class first. Latino Voters will decide who becomes President in 2028.
I am the perfect Latino candidate that can win in 2028 by achieving National Latino support, obtaining more votes from men and the idea of electing the "First" Latino President will create excitement in the electorate. Voters will want to be part of something historical similar to what happened with Obama. I am seeking your endorsement and support to be a Nationally Recognized Presidential Candidate to win in 2028 or be selected for Vice President.
We already had a Black President and Vice President so that is no longer new or a novelty and as seen in 2024 Black people are not enough to vote in a Democrat, so if you want to win in 2028 you need to support a Latino and White candidate combination. It's time for Black people to support Latinos to become President or Vice President. Latinos have already helped Obama and Kamala be elected. Democrats if you want to win in 2028 #VoteMando.
Thank You, MANDO” (x)
During his 2021 gubernatorial campaign, the LA Times asked him how he would direct the state to handle ICE if he won. Armando replied, “Immigration and Customs Enforcement is the sole responsibility of the federal government and the president of the United States. As a member of the Latino community my goal is to bring awareness to the border crisis that the Biden/Harris administration created!” (x)
NOTE: In April 2026, he posted on his Twitter account a sign that said ‘Mando for US Congress, No Trump No ICE’.
Endorsed by:
None Found
Candidate in the News:
“Meet the other recall candidates: Armando ‘Mando’ Perez-Serrato” - LA TIMES
“Who is Armando Perez-Serrato, candidate in the California governor recall election” - Sacramento Bee
Public Voting Record:
None Found
None Found
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Municipal Water District of OC Division 2 Candidate
“BOBBY LAPOINTE | Retail Investor
As a husband, father of three, Army veteran, and longtime Orange County resident, I understand public service begins with responsibility. I am running for Division 2 Director of the Municipal Water District of Orange County to help secure safe, reliable, affordable water for our communities.
My Army work in information technology and network security taught me to protect critical systems, evaluate risks, and respond under pressure. I earned bachelor’s degrees in History and Women and Gender Studies from California State University, Fullerton, along with associate degrees in Mathematics and Nutrition from Fullerton College. My education has been rooted in community needs—combining analytical thinking, health, and social understanding to better serve the public. As a retail investor managing my investment business, I evaluate risk, scrutinize costs, plan for the long term, and understand every dollar must serve a
purpose.
I will apply those skills to protecting groundwater, strengthening infrastructure, expanding water recycling, improving wildfire preparedness, and reducing dependence on imported water. I will
ask questions, explain decisions openly, and treat public money with care.
I will bring integrity, judgment, financial discipline, and a commitment to dependable water for every community I serve. Thank you for your consideration.”
Email: bobby@lapointe2026.com
Campaign Website: https://lapointe2026.com/
Bobby has this quote on his campaign website, “The Greatest Way You Can Thank A Veteran For Their Service Is By Being Civically Active And Vote.”
Priorities:
Lead On Data Centers Instead Of Reacting To Them
Write Policy For The River We Actually Have
Harden Our Infrastructure Against Attack
Treat This As A Policy Job, Because It Is One
Protect The Water That Fights Our Fires
Any Other Interesting Info:
Bobby actively reached out to Pride at the Pier to ask about our guide and about the pledges we sent to candidates in 2024. We did not actively send those pledges out in 2026 due simply to bandwidth limitations, but because he asked about it, we sent the ‘Do No Harm’ pledge to him for review. He agreed almost immediately to take the Pledge.
That pledge a commitment to uphold principles of inclusivity, equity, and respect. This pledge is a crucial step in ensuring that our community remains a welcoming and supportive place for all individuals, regardless of their background or identity.
“The Do No Harm Pledge includes the following commitments:
Acknowledgement of the Separation of Church and State: Affirmation of the importance of maintaining a clear separation between religious beliefs and public policy.
Open Dialogue with the LGBTQ+ Community: Commitment to seeking out and engaging in open and respectful dialogue with members of the LGBTQ+ community in your role.
Prioritizing Safety, Dignity, and Equity: Pledge to prioritize the safety, dignity, and equity of all constituents, including marginalized communities.”
Bobby endorses a ‘third path’ with data centers. His campaign website points out that there are already two data centers in Orange County (one in Anaheim, one in Irvine), and suggests that rather than banning data centers entirely or allowing them all in, that we take a ‘third path’; “There is a third option: lead. Tech companies need our land, workforce, resources, and markets to build and promote their products. That is leverage. We should use it rather than surrender it. How do we do that?
By planning early. I propose a regional Orange County Data Center Water Suitability Study to identify factors that influence data center construction across the entire county, such as water availability and reliability, access to non-potable water, locations of culturally and spiritually significant tribal sites, and more.
Looking out ten years, twenty years, and beyond, I want us to be able to say that we met this moment, and the presence of data centers in our communities led to the development of reliable water infrastructure that can serve our needs for generations to come.” Read the full context of his statements here.
He received his Bachelor of Arts (BA, Women and Gender Studies) from Cal State Fullerton in January 2025, having gone back to school later in life.
Bobby is a veteran, having served as a sergeant in the US Army with a deployment to Iraq.
Social Media Links:
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
NOTE: This is a very incomplete list. We have many mutuals with Bobby, these are just a handful.
Pride at the Pier
Carl Blankenhorn (progressive candidate for Fountain Valley School District)
Alex Mohajer (openly LGBTQ Irvine commissioner, fmr. Candidate for State Senate, fmr. President of the Stonewall Democrats)
Orange Coast Huddle
OC Young Democrats
OC Indivisible
The Charty B (partner of Pride at the Pier, tracks extremists across California politics)
The Feminist Uprising
LGBTQ Center OC
Mission Viejo Pride
WAVE
You Belong Outdoors and Beyond (partner of Pride at the Pier, trans-led hiking group)
Long Beach Rapid Response Network
Supporters of Public Education
Orange County Working Families Party
Candidate’s Public Comments:
On his campaign website, Bobby says, “The Colorado River is drying up, and the policies we run on were written for a river that still had water in it.
How much water Orange County imports depends entirely on where you stand. In north and central Orange County, 19 cities and agencies serving 2.5 million people pump about 85 percent of their demand from the groundwater basin and import the remaining 15 percent. In South Orange County, roughly 600,000 people rely almost entirely on imported supply, and in a drought some districts run at 100 percent imported. MWDOC is the agency that buys that imported water and sets the terms our 28 member agencies work under. Which means the decisions made at this board, covering supply contracts, conservation, recycling, and who gets to draw on the system, are the decisions that determine what happens here when the imported supply gets tighter.
I'm running because those decisions are arriving faster than the board is prepared for them, and because we should be the ones making them rather than waiting to be handed the results.”
Lapointe responded to the OC Register’s candidate questionnaire:
Question: Tell us what your No. 1 priority is for this office, should you be elected.
Answer: "My top priority is making sure Orange County has a plan for less imported water, because our local supply depends on imported water too.
About two-thirds of the county’s water comes from the groundwater basin under north and central Orange County. That basin is managed, not unlimited. OCWD caps how much agencies may pump, currently at 85% of demand, and refilling it takes recycled water, captured storm flow, and purchased imported water. When imported supply tightens, both halves of our portfolio tighten together.
The rules on the Colorado River just changed. The seven basin states failed to agree, so in August the federal government imposed its own framework and issued guidelines covering only 2027 and 2028. The long-term allocation is unresolved, and the next MWDOC board will serve while it is decided.
MWDOC does not negotiate that alone, but it appoints four of Orange County’s representatives to Metropolitan’s board. Making sure Orange County is heard in that room is the most consequential thing this seat does.”
Question: What does this department do for citizens? What do you view as its most important role for residents, and why?”
Answer: “Most residents will never interact directly with the Municipal Water District of Orange County, yet its work affects something they depend upon every day. It is a low-visibility but high-impact position.
Its most important role is simple: When you turn on the tap, safe water should be there, and the bill should be one a family can absorb. Every dollar MWDOC spends flows through your local agency and onto your bill, so cost discipline isn’t separate from reliability; it’s a cornerstone of it. Achieving that requires more than technical expertise. A director must be a coalition builder.
Orange County’s water future depends on cooperation among local water agencies, cities, regional partners, state and federal governments, community stakeholders and people with competing priorities. No single agency can solve these challenges alone.
A director’s job is governance: listen to technical experts, scrutinize costs, ask difficult questions, build consensus where possible and advocate effectively for the people we represent.”
Question: Your neighbors may not be so familiar with this office on their ballot. How would you promote more general knowledge of the district and the importance of its work?
Answer: “MWDOC has run one of Southern California’s oldest water education programs since 1973, reaching about 70,000 students a year. The district isn’t silent. But its outreach reaches children, while the people paying the bills and casting the votes are adults.
I’d close that gap three ways.
First, use the channel residents already open: their water bill. MWDOC doesn’t bill anyone directly, but its 27 member agencies do. A short annual insert saying where your water came from, what it cost, and what’s coming would reach nearly every household. Not only in English and Spanish, but in Vietnamese, Korean, and Chinese. Orange County is federally required to print ballots in those four languages. Water bills deserve the same standard.
Second, show up in person. City councils, chambers, and neighborhood groups all take public comment. A director who appears at 10 of those a year does more than any brochure.
Third, make the board’s own work legible. Agendas that explain items in ordinary language instead of acronyms, and rate changes explained before they take effect, not after.
And measure it. If outreach doesn’t change what residents can tell you about their water, it’s marketing, not education”
Question: What experiences and priorities do you bring to this role? What have you learned in prior leadership roles that makes you the person for the job?
Answer: “I served as an Army Sergeant and deployed to Iraq. I learned leadership where failure was not hypothetical, where the job was to stay calm, make decisions with incomplete information, and the expectation to keep my team working when conditions turned bad.
Droughts, earthquakes, pipeline failures, and cyberattacks do not arrive on a convenient schedule. Plans that have never been stress-tested tend to be binders no one has opened.
My priorities are: First, treat cybersecurity as core infrastructure, not an IT line item. Water systems are a documented target. Second, plan honestly for a smaller Colorado River rather than assuming past allocations hold. Third, set policy on large industrial water users, including data centers, before that demand arrives.
I studied history and women and gender studies at Cal State Fullerton, shaping how I approach leadership. History teaches you to think beyond the next election, to ask what a decision will mean decades from now. Women and gender studies teaches you to ask an equally important question: Who is missing from the room, and who will bear the consequences of the decision? On a board that sets rates and makes infrastructure decisions affecting millions of people, both are practical skills.”
Question: What will you do to establish trust with your community that you will tackle this job well?
Answer: “Trust is built by being specific and then being checkable.
I am not going to promise to lower your water bill. No single director controls rates, and a candidate who tells you otherwise is either misinformed or counting on you not to check.
What I can promise is how I will operate. I will explain my votes in public, in plain terms, before they are cast and not after. When I do not know something, I will say so and then go find out, rather than repeating staff language I do not understand. And I will show up where residents already are instead of waiting for them to find a board meeting in Fountain Valley.
I would rather be judged on a record than a slogan. If elected, I will publish what I said I would work on and report annually on whether I did it. That is an uncomfortable standard, which is the point.
What I bring is the Army’s discipline and leadership training, the foresight history teaches about decisions that outlast the people who make them, and the passion to build an argument and carry it into a room where it is not welcome.”
Bonus question: What is the best book you’ve read this year? Explain why you found it compelling.
Answer: “The best book I have read this year is ‘Let’s Call Her Barbie’ by Renée Rosen.
It came to me through one of the book clubs I belong to, and it was exactly the kind of book I did not know I needed. I read a lot of heavy material. Policy, history, institutions, and long explanations of how things went wrong. This was joyful, but I still came away having learned something.
Rosen uses historical fiction to tell the story of Ruth Handler, Mattel, and the team that created Barbie. In the 1950s, when dolls marketed to girls largely encouraged them to imagine themselves as mothers, Handler pushed the radical idea of an adult woman doll who could represent a future instead. The book follows the resistance, personalities, arguments, and persistence behind what became one of the most recognizable toys in the world. Underneath all that pink, it is really a story about moving an organization that has already made up its mind, and about who gets listened to. Not a bad thing to read before running for a board seat.
You get a few looks reading a bright pink Barbie book in public as a grown man. By page 30, you stop noticing.”
Endorsed by:
OC Indivisible
OC Democrats
Viet Dems of OC
Candidate in the News:
OC Register: Bobby Lapointe, Municipal Water District of Orange County Division 2 candidate, 2026 election questionnaire
Public Voting Record:
None Found
Bobby’s campaign contributions are not yet publicly available
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Municipal Water District of OC Division 2 Candidate
“MIKE MARKUS | Water Resource Engineer
Orange County’s imported water supply is growing more expensive and less dependable. Hundreds of millions of dollars are being wasted on projects supported by the MWDOC Board that are destined to fail. I will stop wasteful spending and bring practical solutions to help solve our water issues.
I dedicated 35 years to serving the Orange County Water District, leading the organization as its General Manager for 16 years. During that time, I built the world's largest water reuse project,
the Groundwater Replenishment System, and developed the first program in the nation to remove PFAS from groundwater, saving over 200 Orange County water wells from closure. These projects provide long-term reliable water supplies while protecting human
health.
I am an Engineer, not a politician. I have built my career in sound science and fiscal accountability. I am running because I have real experience building and managing large infrastructure projects. I know what water projects should cost, which questions to ask and understand when the numbers don’t add up. I will hold every MWDOC decision to a high standard and make sure ratepayers get what they pay for.
I respectfully ask for your vote. I would be honored to serve you.”
Email: None Found
Campaign Website: Candidate does not appear to have a campaign website
Priorities:
None Found
Any Other Interesting Info:
Mike has decades of experience as an employee of MWDOC, starting as a construction manager in 1988 and retiring in 2024 after being a General Manager since 2007.
Mike spoke to Youtube channel Aquatech in 2020 about his involvement in the creation of MWDOC’s Groundwater Replenishment System (GWRS). Watch it here.
Mike is a client of the Loren lillestrand Consulting executive training program. (x)
Social Media Links:
Linkedin
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
None Found
Candidate’s Public Comments:
In a MWDOC regarding his 2024 retirement, Mike said, “It has been an absolute privilege to lead an organization that is a global leader in its industry (...) From groundwater management to water recycling and water quality, OCWD has driven innovation and set the gold standard for many projects and programs. This is a testament to the board and the dedicated staff who work to fulfill our mission to provide a safe, reliable water supply.” (x)
Markus responded to the OC Register’s candidate questionnaire:
Question: Tell us what your No. 1 priority is for this office, should you be elected.
Answer: “My No. 1 priority is to cut wasteful spending and support projects that will result in the lowest cost of water to the customer.”
Question: What does this department do for citizens? What do you view as its most important role for residents, and why?
Answer: “MWDOC represents the citizens of Orange County at the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD), which is the regional wholesaler of water imported from Northern California and the Colorado River. MWDOC’s most important role is to make sure that MWD develops policies and projects that provide the most cost-effective solutions to our water challenges.”
Question: Your neighbors may not be so familiar with this office on their ballot. How would you promote more general knowledge of the district and the importance of its work?
Answer: “I would try to drive people to the MWDOC website (www.mwdoc.com) and make improvements to the website to explain where their water comes from. This could be done by putting a notice in with the water bills and having a link on the water retailer’s website to the MWDOC site. I would also promote emailing a monthly MWDOC newsletter to all water customers.”
Question: What experiences and priorities do you bring to this role? What have you learned in prior leadership roles that makes you the person for the job?
Answer: “I was born and have lived in California my entire life. I graduated from Villa Park High School, received an undergraduate degree (Cal Poly Pomona) and a graduate degree (USC) in civil engineering. I spent 35 years working at the Orange County Water District (OCWD), with the last 16 years as its general manager. While at OCWD, I managed and built the world’s largest potable reuse project that produces 130 million gallons of water per day. I uniquely understand the water challenges facing Orange County and the state of California and am not afraid of asking tough questions and solving complex issues.”
Question: What will you do to establish trust with your community that you will tackle this job well?
Answer: “I will actively engage my retail water agencies and listen to their concerns. I will also host monthly community meetings for any member of the public to explain what is happening at MWDOC and MWD and answer any concerns they may have. I am not a politician; I’m a respected water professional who has devoted his entire career to water. Google me.”
Bonus question: What is the best book you’ve read this year? Explain why you found it compelling.
Answer: “‘Water 4.0’ by David Sedlak. Great book.”
Endorsed by:
None Found
Candidate in the News:
OC Register: Mike Markus, Municipal Water District of Orange County Division 2 candidate, 2026 election questionnaire
Public Voting Record:
None Found
47th District, House of Representatives
Due to bandwidth limitations, our fully volunteer team will not be able to cover all legislative races in this guide. Thank you for understanding, and please check out the local races we did cover.
Orange County Board of Supervisors District 5
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*Information as of our June 2026 Primary Guide*
“Supervisor Katrina Foley is an independent leader with a proven record of strengthening public safety, safeguarding taxpayers, and standing up for Orange County families. She believes government works best when it protects communities, respects individual privacy and personal decision-making, and delivers results. Despite dysfunction in Washington, D.C. and Sacramento, she works to prioritize our Orange County way of life. Keeping Neighborhoods Safe: Supervisor Foley fully funded public safety, combated retail theft and burglaries, shut down illegal sober living homes, and decreased fentanyl epidemic overdoses. She led the successful ban on recreational nitrous oxide and kratom, addressed e-bike safety, and strengthened wildfire preparedness. Reducing Homelessness: Katrina Foley worked with urgency to clear homeless encampments from parks, nature preserves, and flood channels to ensure public safety. She advocated to expand mental health and treatment programs, and supported increased development of workforce, affordable and supportive housing near job centers across the county. Strengthening Our Economy: A strong advocate for small businesses, she cut red tape, streamlined County services, and championed policies helping employers grow to create good-paying jobs. Reforming County Government: Following an egregious public corruption scandal by another supervisor, Supervisor Foley worked to restore integrity and accountability. She advanced ethics reforms, strengthened oversight of public contracts, and supported independent audits to identify corruption and eliminate waste.
Supervisor Foley helped secure the County’s first AAA credit rating since the 1994 County bankruptcy. She believes the government must live within its means and deliver efficient results for every taxpayer dollar— without raising your taxes.
Katrina Foley was the only Supervisor to vote against a pay raise for the Board. Improving Services: Katrina Foley restored beaches damaged by erosion, opposed offshore oil drilling threatening our coastline, renovated libraries, reduced airport noise while improving services at John Wayne Airport, and strengthened programs for veterans, seniors, and youth. She supports cleaner water, and waste reduction over landfill expansion impacting surrounding communities.
Katrina Foley is supported by organizations representing law enforcement, firefighters, paramedics, nurses, educators, environmentalists, veterans, small businesses, and community leaders throughout Orange County. ‘As your Supervisor, I work everyday to protect Orange County’s neighborhoods, businesses, and quality of life. I don’t answer to partisan politics — I answer to you. We’ve made progress, but more work remains. I respectfully ask for your vote. Call (949) 229-6568 or email Hello@KatrinaFoley.com with your ideas or questions.’
A successful businessowner, attorney, wife and mom, Katrina Foley served on the Board of Supervisors since 2021. She was the first directly elected Mayor of Costa Mesa, a City Councilmember, and Newport-Mesa School Board member.
Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley”
Email: hello@katrinafoley.com
Campaign Website:
While Foley doesn’t list her priorities on her website, she does have her accomplishments listed. As she is the incumbent, we are considering these as essentially the same thing.
Economic Recovery
Enhanced Public Safety
Climate Action and Coastal Protection
Reduced Homelessness and Crafted Innovative Housing Solutions
Safeguarded Tax Dollars
Protected Public Health
Any Other Interesting Info:
Foley was a Costa Mesa city council member from November 2004 to November 2010.
Foley was a trustee on the NMUSD board from November 2010 to November 2014.
Foley’s staff are often seen tabling for her office at Orange County Pride events throughout the year.
After the OC Board of Supervisors voted to ban the Pride Flag in 2023, Foley and Vicente Sarmiento, the two dissenting votes, worked with LGBTQ+ partners in the county to meet with impacted community members and had a photo opportunity with the Giant Pride Flag owned by Pride at the Pier.
Foley isn’t without her criticism:
Local LGBTQ+ partners have expressed concern over what they feel is her reticence to be more bold in protecting LGBTQ+ rights; while she appears to be the strongest ally to LGBTQ+ community members among the three candidates for this seat, there have been calls in the past for her to do more.
Foley received the endorsement of the Democratic Party of Orange County for this current race over a year ago, long before officially filing - something that some felt was restricting the ability of more progressive candidates to successfully campaign for this seat.
Social Media Links:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KatrinaFoleyOC
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/katrinafoley
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katrinafoleyoc
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
Foley also follows most of the known Democratic clubs in the region, a variety of non-partisan community organizations, and labor organizations, as well as a long list of state, local, and federal elected officials who have been known to be varying levels of supportive towards the protection of marginalized communities. She does not appear to follow anyone that we know of as harboring discriminatory views.
Candidate’s Public Comments:
During the Board of Supervisors meeting where the Pride Flag was banned at county locations, Foley dissented, saying, “We need to make sure that the community knows we care and that we're a safe place”.
In the same meeting, she went on to say, “We’ve spent millions of dollars investing in suicide prevention. But sometimes, suicide prevention is as simple as a rainbow flag flying in the wind on a government building, telling our most vulnerable children we welcome them, and we will keep them safe.”
Endorsed by:
California Fraternal Order of Police
Association of Orange County Deputy Sheriffs
Orange County Coalition of Police and Sheriffs (OC Cops)
Orange County Professional Firefighters Association
Orange County Business Council's Political Action Committee (BIZPAC)
Costa Mesa Police Association
Irvine Police Association
Planned Parenthood of Orange and San Bernardino Counties Community Action Fund
Veterans Alliance of Orange County (VALOR)
Orange County Labor Federation
Orange County Employees Association
Sierra Club
Orange County League of Conservation Voters
Coast Federation of Teachers
National Union of Healthcare Workers
LA/OC Building and Construction Trades Council
Operating Engineers Local 12
IBEW Local 441
Laborers Local 652
UA Plumbers Local 582
American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees Local 2076
Southwest Regional Council of Carpenters
Teamsters Joint Council 42
United Food & Commercial Workers Local 324
United Domestic Workers
UNITE HERE Local 11
Democratic Party of Orange County
Women for American Values and Ethics
Women in Leadership
Newport Beach Firefighters
Costa Mesa Firefighters
Chief David Snowden, Former Costa Mesa Chief of Police
Candidate in the News:
Unions are the real winner in Democratic control of Orange County board
O.C. Supervisors say ‘no’ to LGBTQ+ Pride flag on county property
OC’s Biggest Headlines as Supervisor Campaign Flares Over Landfill
OC clears Santa Ana River Marsh in first cleanup since anti-encampment ordinance went into effect
Santana: Herbicide Spraying of South OC Waterways Halted, For Now
OC Supervisors Ban Homeless Encampments in Parks and Flood Channels
Katrina Foley removed as Costa Mesa mayor in contentious, late-night meeting
Public Voting Record:
Foley voted YES on banning Homeless Encampments in OC Parks and Flood Channels - this followed the Supreme Court decision that allows law enforcement to arrest unhoused individuals for ‘camping’.
Foley voted NO on banning the Pride Flag on county flag poles.
Foley voted NO on salary increases for the Board of Supervisors.
$2,700 from Teamsters Local 396 PAC
$1,000 from Irvine Democratic Club
$1,000 from the Newport Beach Firefighters Association
$1,000 from Belinda Kiesecker, CEO of Otra Mas
$2,700 from Elim Kay, the CEO of KA Capital Management
$125 from Carol Crane, a board trustee at Newport Mesa USD
$2,649 from Perry Bridger, Public Affairs with Edward Lifesciences
$1,065 from Rhonda Bolton, former Huntington Beach City Council member
$2,500 from Southern California District Council of Laborers PAC (ID# 1358150)
$1,100 from Denys Oberman, CEO of Oberman Associates, Inc
$2,700 from Building a Stronger California, Sponsored by Western States Council of Carpenters (ID# 870169)
$1,250 from Newport Beach Women's Democratic Club
Foley has a significant number of $26 donations, which appears to be the result of targeted fundraising being directed at individuals who are more working class and middle class. The majority of her donations are under $500.
Foley also has a number of donations from individuals working at various law firms - potentially because she herself is an attorney and these are professional connections.
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*Information as of our June 2026 Primary Guide*
“DIANE DIXON
California State Assemblywoman
Politics is broken, and Orange County families are paying the price. Grocery bills. Gas prices. Utility costs. Everything keeps going up while career politicians put special interests or advancing their careers ahead of the people they’re supposed to serve. I’ve had enough. I’m Diane Dixon, a proud, lifelong Conservative and former Fortune 300 executive who got involved because Orange County needed someone to take charge and lead. As an Orange County State Assemblywoman, I've fought policies that increased taxes and mandates, held government accountable and supported law enforcement. Now, I’m running for the Orange County Board of Supervisors to bring that same leadership home.
Fighting for Affordability; Californians deserve better as families have been crushed and small businesses pushed to the brink. Costly mandates, reckless spending and constant tax increases have made it impossible for families to make ends meet. I’ll oppose tax and fee increases, promote policies that help local businesses grow and thrive and work to improve housing affordability. That’s why the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association has endorsed me. They trust me to make Orange County affordable again. Stopping the Crime Wave; The most fundamental responsibility of the government is keeping families safe. Yet some politicians have embraced a radical, soft-on-crime ideology that defunded law enforcement and made it harder to lock up criminals. Violent crime and robberies in Orange County have increased since 2021. It needs to stop. In the Legislature, I authored Alexandra’s Law to hold repeat fentanyl dealers criminally accountable, and I’ve stood side-by-side with law enforcement while others turned their backs on them. As your County Supervisor, I’ll take on the soft-on-crime agenda and ensure our sheriffs and first responders have the resources they need, and I’ll fight to restore law and order. Bringing Accountability Back to Government; Orange County residents are fed up with taxpayer dollars flowing to political allies, backroom deals and decisions made without transparency or scrutiny. As your Supervisor, I’ll require competitive bidding for contracts, full public disclosure of spending, strict conflict-of-interest rules and full oversight before any major vote is taken. No more political favors. No more excuses. Orange County deserves honest leadership and a Supervisor who fights for you. I would be honored to earn your vote. Diane Dixon: Common-Sense Conservative for Orange County Board of Supervisors.”
Email: None Found
Campaign Website: https://dixonforoc.com/
On her website, she lists the following priorities:
Public Safety
Protecting Small Businesses
Coastal Protection
Securing Needed Funding for Orange County
Supporting Families
Bills Passed and Signed Into Law
Any Other Interesting Info:
Dixon received an “F” from Courage Score, which issues scorecards for CA legislators based on how often they stand up for constituents over corporate lobbyists that exploit Californians.
Dixon received an “11%” score from the California Federation of Labor Unions.
Dixon received an “F” from Reproductive Freedom For All. This score denotes that she is “Extremely Hostile to Reproductive Freedom”.
Dixon received a “72%” from the Freedom Index, which ‘rates members of Congress and state legislators based on their adherence to the U.S. Constitution and America’s founding principles.’
Social Media Links:
Assemblymember Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diane_dixon_asm/
Campaign Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dixonforoc/
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
Official account of the California Department of Corrections & Rehabilitation
Pacific Airshow (scandal-ridden business embedded in HB politics)
Bogart’s CoffeeHouse (Seal Beach business that has hosted anti-trans events)
Carl DeMaio, Chairman, @reformcalifornia
Concerned Moms of Newport Beach (anti-trans group)
Harmeet Dhillon, member of the current Trump administration
Ken Paxton, Attorney General of Texas, known for radical anti-trans actions
Endorsed by:
Republican Party of Orange County
California College Republicans
Lincoln Club of OC
The New Majority
Californian Republican Assembly
Howard Jarvis Taxpayer Association
California Women’s Leadership Association
She’s also been endorsed by the following individuals who are known as being publicly and openly MAGA and anti-LGBTQ+:
Ed Laird
Dr. Stefan Bean (OC BOE)
Mari Barke (OC BOE)
Tim Shaw (OC BOE)
Jorge Valdes, Esq. (OC BOE)
Dr. Ken Williams (OC BOE)
Lisa Sparks (OC BOE)
Steve Knoblock (San Clemente City Councilmember who tried to push through an anti-abortion resolution in his city)
Noah Blom (Newport Beach CC)
Joe Stapleton (Newport Beach CC)
Will O’Neill (OC GOP Chairman)
Tony Strickland (Assemblymember and Fmr. HB City Council)
Casey McKeon (HB Mayor)
Mike Munzing (Aliso Viejo CC, tried to pass a Pride flag ban)
Candidate in the News:
Two OC Republican State Legislators Join Effort to Refocus ICE on Criminals
Bill Limits Age to Buy E-Bikes Signed Into Law by Gov. Newsom
No censure for Newport Beach councilman over anti-gay marriage remarks
Doxxing victims in California may gain right to sue to ‘bring some power back’
Public Voting Record:
2025 - AB 554 (González) - PrEPARE Act: Aims to increase access to HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis. Dixon: NO VOTE RECORDED
2025 - AB 1487 (Santiago) - 2STGI Wellness & Equity Fund: Establishes a fund for 2-Spirit, Transgender, Gender Non-Conforming, and Intersex wellness. Dixon: NO
2025 - AB 82 (Ward) - Transgender/Nonbinary Health Privacy: Protects privacy for gender-affirming care, including preventing reporting of specific hormones to monitoring programs. Dixon: NO VOTE RECORDED
2025 - SB 278 (Becker) - HIV Test Results: Updates protocols for reporting HIV test results. Dixon: AYE
2025 - SB 418 (Ennis) - Access to Care: Ensures equal access to care for all. Dixon: NO
2025 - SB 504 (Wahab) - HIV Data Reporting: Modifies HIV data reporting requirements. Dixon: AYE
2025 - AB 715 (Zbur) - California Attorney Protection Act: Addresses legal protections. Dixon: AYE
2025 - AB 1084 (Zbur) - ID Documents: Streamlining identification documents for transgender Californians. Dixon: NO
2025 - SB 59 (Wiener) - Transgender Privacy Act: Privacy protections for transgender Californians changing their names and gender markers. Dixon: NO
2025 - SB 497 (Wiener) - Sensitive Health Data. Dixon: NO
2024 - AB 1979 (Ward) - Would allow victims to sue those responsible for doxxing in civil court for as much as $30,000, plus attorneys’ fees and court costs. Dixon: NO
The Main Take-Away: Dixon’s campaign is very well-funded, with the majority of her donations being large dollar amounts from retirees, wealth managers, CEOs, and those in the property industry (realtors, investors, managers, etc).
A significant number of her donors are retirees with no employers listed.
$1,000 from David Simpson, the President of Simpson Auto Group
$1,000 from Eron Eklund, the CEO of Aerosoft Systems
$1,000 from Linda Shirvanian, with Komar Investments
$1,000 from Vache Hanessian, with KMS Properties Inc
$1,000 from Robert Friedman, founder of F&F Capital Group
$1,700 from Steve Knoblock, San Clemente City Council member who tried to ban abortion within San Clemente
$1,000 from BOMA OC PAC (ID# 1347850), the political action committee for the Building Owners and Managers Association of Orange County. This PAC also donated to the campaign for Mark A. Murphy for Orange Mayor in 2022.
$2,000 from Cathy Capaldi, the COO for BrightHome Equities, a real estate firm
$2,700 from Rodney Emery, the CEO of Steadfast Companies, a real estate firm
$500 from Eric Snyder, with Commercial Real Estate Talonvest Capital
$2,700 from Fariborz Maseeh, a hedge fund manager with Picoco LLC
$2,000 from Kent R. Valley, a developer with Majestic Realty
$2,700 from the Southern California Contractors Association PAC (ID# 881014)
$2,700 from CREPAC - CA Real Estate PAC (ID# 890106), the PAC associated with the California Assoc. of Realtors, who are known for being anti-regulation, anti-rent control, and pro-business. They also Doug Cirbo’s campaign for Lake Forest city council in 2022.
$2,000 from Timothy Busch, the CEO of Pacific Hospitality Group, a hotel management and investment firm
$1,000 from Trevor O’Neill, with Real Estate Renaissance Partners
$1,200 from William Kenney, a real estate broker with The Kenney Company
$2,500 from Roger Darnell, a real estate broker with Majestic Realty Co
$1,000 from Alicia Cannon, a realtor with Alicia Cannon Real Estate
$2,700 from Jim Davis, Vice President at Mesa Management, a property management company in Newport Beach.
$2,700 from Steve Mensinger, President at Mesa Management, a property management company in Newport Beach.
$2,700 from David Bahnsen, a wealth advisor with The Bahnsen Group
NOTE: The preceding list was from 26 pages of her most recent campaign filing, which was 53 pages long, and does not include those who donated to her previous political campaigns. We feel at this point you get the point, but please feel free to dig further by clicking through the hyperlinks and looking for yourself.
73rd District, CA State Assembly
Due to bandwidth limitations, our fully volunteer team will not be able to cover all of the legislative races in this guide. Thank you for understanding, and please check out the local races we did cover.
County Assessor
The county assessor acts like Orange County’s head bookkeeper, making sure all the money is handled correctly. The assessor take care of paying the bills and the workers, keeping track of all the money coming in, and writing the final reports on how the county spent its budget.
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*Information as of our June 2026 Primary Guide*Campaign Statement:
“CLAUDE PARRISH
My commitments upon taking office were:
To, eliminate waste. Since 2015 I returned $17,039,843 in funds from my office budget to the County by carefully monitoring expenses. To, continue to extend the deadline for tax appeals from September 15th to November 30th. Now taxpayers have an additional 75 days to file appeals. To, complete each year the Property Tax Roll on time, a first since my election in 2015.
To, create a Taxpayer Advocate office. Now we have “A Public Defender for the Taxpayer” to assist taxpayers with property tax problems. The Advocate’s office has helped more than 10,800 taxpayers since its inception. Established a Business Tax Resolution Specialist in 2024.
Over 400 taxpayers have been assisted with business property and vessel assessment issues. To, establish a South County satellite office. We now have, in Mission Viejo City Hall, a rent-free office. To, allow taxpayers all lawful exemptions and exclusions that they are qualified for, without undue bureaucratic delays. To, reduce appeals from 19,507 in 2015 to 8,027 due to more accurate valuations. To protect Proposition 13. Having always maintained an open-door policy, you may call me (714) 834-2734.
I respectfully ask for your vote.”
Email: cparrish9@cox.net / ocassessor@asr.ocgov.com
Phone: (714) 834-2734
Campaign Website: http://www.claudeparrish.com/
Claude listed the following priorities on his campaign website:
Extend the deadline for tax appeals from September 15th to November 30th, giving taxpayers an additional 75 days to file appeals.
Create a Taxpayer Advocate Office to assist taxpayers with filing assessment appeals and navigating California’s complex tax laws.
Establish a south county satellite office in existing county office space, with current local employees, at no additional cost to taxpayers.
Allow taxpayers all lawful exemptions that they are qualified for without undue bureaucratic delays.
In many instances, due to the over billings and errors of the current Assessor, our County had a record high of 25,080 property tax appeals work load in one year. These appeals negatively impact property owners, small business, and seniors, Claude Parrish will bring accuracy and fairness to the process.
This website was not online in early April, during which time he was interviewed by the LAist, who also asked him about his priorities. Per that article, “What are some of your priorities if you are re-elected? “Main priority is I am available, which is unusual for an elected official,” Parrish told LAist. “You call me and you got me, and that’s just about impossible. When I try to call congressmen, assemblymen, mayors, councilmen, I can never get them. But you got me right away.” He added that he would like to give employees in the Assessor’s Office a wage increase. “They don’t get enough money, and they didn’t raise the money for two years, and this is wrong,” he said. “I can’t take money out of my pocket and pay them.” Parrish added that he would like to maintain the department’s standards and make sure property taxes do not go up by more than 2%.
Any Other Interesting Info:
Claude faced a workplace misconduct investigation during his time as assessor that found he violated gender discrimination and retaliation policies and harassed a subordinate over her medical disability. According to the assessor’s filings, Claude;
“Downplayed the employee’s chronic medical condition as a “tummy ache”
Shared her private medical information with coworkers
Regularly commented on her diet
Told her to stop taking her prescribed medication
Made her “drink baking soda mixed with tap water to ‘fix’ her medical condition””
In addition to the investigations into workplace ableism, the report, filed in 2023, found in favor of his employees’ complaints. Per the LAist, “It is more likely than not that Parrish routinely refers to male employees as ‘Mr.’ and female employees by their first name, based on their gender,” the investigation found. “The cumulative effect of Parrish's practice of using formal, deferential means of addressing men, while using informal, casual means of addressing women serves to highlight a subservient relationship between such employees, based on their sex.”
In the aftermath of the Tustin Hangar Fire (RIP that piece of Orange County History), Claude found himself in the midst of a small scandal, as he sent notices to 23,000 homeowners who were still dealing with pollution fears in the area, asking them to submit forms for to have the value of their homes re-evaluated, without communicating with the City of Tustin first. Per the LAist, “Tustin’s mayor, Austin Lumbard, lambasted the decision to send out the notices without notifying the city as it can cause ‘unnecessary alarm.’”
His most recent elected position prior to this was as a councilmember on the Lake Forest City Council, where he was recalled by a 49% margin in 2018 after multiple terms. The recall election only brought in 17.5% voter engagement. Supporters of the recall were displeased with his decision to increase residential zoning in the city.
Prior Positions / Experience:
Former Vice-Chairman of the State Board of Equalization, Third Equalization District
Served as a Los Angeles County Insurance Commissioner.
Appointed as Vice President of management by a large real estate trust where he was in charge of managing properties in excess of 450 million dollars.
Supervised the management of ABC’s Entertainment Center and West Coast Corporate Headquarters in Century City.
Held positions in management, finance and the securities industry.
A District Committeeman for the Los Angeles Area Council of Boy Scouts of America
Treasurer of the Los Angeles County Republican party
Corporate Controller of a securities firm.
Holds a degree in accounting and graduated from college Summa Cum Laude.
Claude highlights in his campaign media quotes from letters received from President Ronald Reagan in 1984 and Governor George Deukmejian in 2014.
Social Media Links:
No presence on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
No presence on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram
Endorsed by:
From campaign website:
Orange County Republican Party (Unanimous)
Howard Jarvis Tax Taxpayers Association
California Republican Assembly (Unanimous)
National Tax Limitation Committee (Unanimous)
Orange County Register
ATLAS Political Action Committee
35th Governor of California, George Deukmejian
Lieutenant Governor, Ed Reinecke, (retired) (served under Governor Reagan)
Law School Professor/Journalist, Hugh Hewitt
Congressman, Dana Rohrabacher
Congressman, Darrell Issa
Congressman, Tom McClintock
National Republican Committeeman for California, Shawn Steel
State Board of Equalization Member, Michelle Steel
State Board of Equalization Member, Bill Leonard, (retired)
State Senator, Mimi Walters
State Senator, Dick Ackerman, (retired)
State Assemblyman, Tim Donnelly
State Assemblyman, Don Wagner
State Assemblywoman, Diane Harkey
Orange County Clerk Recorder, Hugh Nguyen
Former Assessor candidate, Jorge O. Lopez
Other Endorsements - http://www.claudeparrish.com/endorsements/
Candidate in the News:
OC investigation found elected assessor treated women as subservient, harassed employee over her disability - LAist Mar 19, 2025
Gender Discrimination, Harassment and Retaliation at OC Assessors Office - helmerfriedman - March 19, 2025
OC workforce housing program endangered by war between county assessor, developers - OC Register July 5, 2024
Public Voting Record:
Nothing found
Follow the Money: via the link
OC workforce housing program endangered by war between county assessor, developers - OC Register July 5, 2024
Claude has hired Lysa Ray for campaign consultant/management services. Ray is a Republican campaign consultant who has worked on the campaigns of a significant number of anti-LGBTQ+ candidates in Orange County.
Claude has paid approximately $130,000 in total to five different campaign literature organizations; Budget Watch dogs Newsletter (ID# 1345115), Cal Voter Newsletter (ID# 1468377), and Election Digest (ID# 1345303), and Voter Newsletter (ID# 1355767).
Claude is partially self-funding his campaign, with a loan of $5,000.
We also found donations from Claude to the 2024 campaigns of Janet Nguyen and Don Wagner, notably anti-LGBTQ+ local elected officials.
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*Information as of our June 2026 Primary Guide*
“JANET KEO CONKLIN AGE: 55
Councilwoman/Businesswoman
My family fled Cambodia in 1975 with nothing, seeking political asylum and opportunity in America. My father and brother, (Army, Veteran Foreign War), both patriots, defended our nation through military service. Today, I carry their legacy forward as a City Councilwoman, small business owner, realtor, veterans advocate, and mom. I keenly understand the needs of renters, homeowners and business-owners through my real estate broker experience and as Founder of La Palma's Chamber of Commerce.
On the city council, I champion public safety, economic development, transparency, and common-sense policies that keep our city thriving. As your Assessor, I'll ensure every homeowner and renter knows their rights. I'll guide families through Prop 13 and Prop 19 rules, helping them preserve their low tax bases and keep their homes. I'll protect vulnerable populations from unfair valuation spikes while expanding opportunities for middle-income families, younger buyers, and first-time homeowners. I'll modernize Assessor technology to make the office more efficient, saving taxpayers millions. I’ll also implement strict protocols safeguarding your personal data from breach & unauthorized access.
I'm running to bring fairness and transparency to property assessments—helping families make their American Dream a reality. Join me. Learn more at janetforassessor.com. Contact me at janet4assessor@gmail.com. 714-595-1096”
Email: janet4assessor@gmail.com
Campaign Website: https://www.janetforassessor.com/
Janet leads her website with the following priorities; “Fair Assessments. Clear Guidance. Accountability.”
Any Other Interesting Info:
Prior Experience:
Councilmember, City of La Palma. There have not been any LGBTQ+ related items on the city council agendas for La Palma as far as we could find.
Secretary/Treasurer of the Women’s Caucus in League of California Cities for 2024-2025
Business Owner - Licensed Real Estate Broker - Self-employed
Community Advocate
Education:
UC Irvine - Bachelor of Arts - BA, Political Science, Government, Policy, and International Economics
Social Media Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janetkeoconklin4assessor / https://www.instagram.com/janetkeoconklin/ (private)
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/janet.keoconklin/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/janet4assessor / https://twitter.com/JanetKeoConklin
Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@janetKeoConklin
Threads: https://www.threads.com/@janetkeoconklin
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janetconklin/
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
Twitter (campaign account)
City of Irvine @City_of_Irvine
Teamsters @Teamsters
City of Laguna Beach @lagunabeachgov
City of Santa Ana @CityofSantaAna
City of Tustin @CityofTustin
Great Park @yourgreatpark
Orange Police Department (California) @CityOfOrangePD
NAR Research @NAR_Research
OCFA @OCFireAuthority
Irvine Police Department @IrvinePolice
City of Huntington Beach @CityofHBPIO
OC Fire Watch @OCFireWatch
City of Costa Mesa @CityofCostaMesa
Voice of OC @VoiceofOC
CA ASSN OF REALTORS® @CAREALTORS
National Association of REALTORS® @nardotrealtor
OC Parks @OCParks
Twitter (personal account)
Michael Trujillo @mikehtrujillo
Janet for Assessor @janet4assessor
Asm Phil Ting @AsmPhilTing
City of La Palma @CityofLaPalma
Lorelei Lachman @LoreleiLachman
Elon Musk @elonmusk
Real Estate Law @LegalRealEstate
Luxury Real Estate @propgoluxury
Instagram (campaign account)
loscerritosdems Los Cerritos Democratic Club of LA—OC
vfw7243hawaiiangardens VFW Post 7243 Hawaiian Gardens
ivcdems Irvine Valley College Democrats
ocgov County of Orange
stephanieoddoforlagunaniguel Stephanie Oddo, Laguna Niguel Council Member
joni_ricks_oddie Dr. Joni Ricks-Oddie
vietdems Vietnamese American Democratic Club
katieliaa 𝒦𝒶̨𝓉𝒾𝑒̨ ꫂ ၴႅၴ
charliechenyl Charlie Chen
michaeljluellen Michael Luellen II
councilmemberbettymartinez Councilmember Betty Martinez Franco
ngpcalifornia Next Gen Politics California.
ochttf Orange County Human Trafficking Task Force
alisonigueldemocraticclub Aliso Niguel Democratic Club
democraticwomenofsouthoc Democratic Women of South Orange County
liu4irvine Melinda Liu
lacassessor Assessor Jeff Prang
emmy_donnelly15 ᓚᘏᗢ mêœw
voteryanpham Ryan H. Pham
fullertoncollegedems Fullerton College Democrats
democraticpartyofoc Democratic Party of OC
votedanrocha Dan Rocha
votearestegui Ariana Arestegui
votehelentran Helen Tran
coalitionpac Coalition PAC
democraticclubofseal Democratic Club of Seal Beach
nbwdc NBWDC
giovannichavezoc Giovanni Chavez
davemin_ca Dave Min
missenergyhealer Janice Joy
chrisduncanca Chris Duncan
demsofnoc Democrats of North OC (DNOC)
councilwoman_janetkconklin
collegedems.uci College Democrats at UCI
fionamacpa Fiona Ma
letitiacclark Dr. Letitia Clark
occ_dems College Democrats at OCC
george1ely Councilman Jorge Herrera Ávila
official.g.d.new.win 阮杜福 - G Nguyen
frank_yokoyama Frank Aurelio Yokoyama
pulidoforassembly Mayor Pro Tem Mark E. Pulido
cahsdems California High School Democrats
thomaswongsgv Thomas Wong
tsorey Therese Sorey
ryanhpham Ryan Pham
adino291 Arnel Dino
Instagram (personal account) following 424
Candidate’s Public Comments:
Nothing significant found beyond campaign messaging and general platitudes
Endorsed by:
According to the list at https://www.janetforassessor.com/endorsements, Conklin is endorsed by:
Derek Tran
Fiona Ma
Bob Archuleta
Victor Sarmiento
Sharon Quirk Silva
Frank Aurelio Yokoyama
Joyce Ahn
Letitia Clark
Chris Duncan
Leo Medrano
Connor Traut
David Penaloza
Ariana Arestegui
Carlos Fracno
Natalie Rubalcalva
Candidate in the News:
La Palma Mayor prompts pause after Council member questions reasons for lack of transparency - Jan 30, 2025 - event-newsenterprise.com
“If you don’t fall in line, they’re going to find ways to write a new rule book to control your behavior so they don’t want transparency or accountability,” said Keo Conklin.
Public Voting Record:
No voting results found related to Trans, LGBTQ, Pride, etc. topics
Plenty of results for normal City business
Follow the Money: via the link
https://www.transparencyusa.org/ca/candidate/janet-k-conklin/
$3,950 Total Contributions / $2,250 Total Expenditures
Top contributors:
$2,000.00 Political Reporting Plus
$1,000.00 Acellent Plus LLC(ethan Huynh)
Campaign Disclosure info - https://netfile.com/corp/#public-data?savedSearchId=WuIAg
Details from prior Senate runs: https://cal-access.sos.ca.gov/Campaign/Candidates/Detail.aspx?id=1477623
Superintendent of Public Instruction
The State Superintendent of Public Instruction oversees the rules for all California schools and decides what students are taught in their classrooms. They can support queer students by making sure they see themselves in their school books and can use the right names and bathrooms, but they could also cause harm by removing inclusive lessons or allowing rules that take away a student's privacy.
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*Information as of our June 2026 Primary Guide
***PRIDE AT THE PIER CONTENT WARNING:
THIS ELECTION GUIDE FOR SONJA SHAW INCLUDES MANY EXAMPLES OF TRANSPHOBIA AND HOMOPHOBIA FROM THIS CANDIDATE, AND MAY BE UPSETTING FOR SOME.
The information in this guide is a very small percentage of the homophobic and transphobic actions and statements made by this candidate.
Statements made by this candidate are rife with misinformation. We are simply sharing to educate voters on the stances of this candidate and what they have been quoted as saying by other sources. Please check all sources for cited information.
Campaign Statement:
“California's public schools are failing our children. Fewer than half can read or write at grade level. Girls' sports are under attack, with female athletes losing medals and scholarships. Many even change in their cars before practice because they feel unsafe in locker rooms. This is unacceptable. As a mother of two daughters, I was elected President of the Chino Valley Unified School Board because parents demanded change. We delivered. When I took office in 2022, our district faced the same problems seen across California: poor grades, declining test scores, political distractions in classrooms, and girls losing fairness and privacy. We chose a different path. We refocused on reading, writing, and math. Protected girls' sports and private spaces. Cut bureaucracy. Directed resources back into classrooms, where they belong. The results were undeniable. Student outcomes improved, and independent research recognized our district as a model for post-COVID academic recovery. That success didn't come from Sacramento mandates. It came from parents who linked arms and stood up for common sense. As State Superintendent, I will bring that same leadership statewide. I will be an independent advocate for students and families, not political insiders. My plan is simple: restore high academic standards in reading, writing, and math; protect Title IX, ensuring fairness and safety for girls; give parents a real seat at the table; support excellent teachers; and cut wasteful bureaucracy. The blueprint exists at the local level. We've proven it works. Let's deliver results for every California student. Learn more at ShawForCA.com.
6939 Schaefer Avenue, Suite D #119Chino, CA 91710Tel: (949) 495-1310E-mail: info@shawforca.comX: @realSonjaShawInstagram: @SonjaShaw2026 “
Email: info@shawforca.com
Campaign Website: https://shawforca.com/
Shaw’s website leads with “Fix Our Schools. Protect Our Kids.”
Under “issues” on her website, she lists the following;
Protect Our Daughters
Fix Our Schools
Put Families First
Under the “Protect Our Daughters” section, she goes on to say; “Policies allowing boys to undress in girls' locker rooms and play on their sports teams undermine fairness and safety. Our daughters deserve to compete on equal terms, not lose opportunities to biological males. They should feel secure in private spaces, not exposed by decisions made without parental consent. Sacramento's disregard for families fuels this injustice, prioritizing ideology over common sense. Classrooms are becoming battlegrounds for radical agendas, pushing divisive content that overshadows core education. Proven leadership has already restored balance in local districts. California's schools need this approach statewide to safeguard girls' opportunities, prioritize parental rights, and ensure education focuses on learning, not politics.”
***Pride at the Pier note - transgender athletes in CA (of which there are very few, hardly enough to fill a single classroom) - are not undressing in girls’ locker rooms with other girls. This is a fearmongering tactic and misrepresents the reality that transgender students are in greater danger of being harmed than they are of harming others.
Any Other Interesting Info:
Sonja Shaw is a proud, documented anti-LGBTQ+ activist who has an extremely long record of standing with transphobic and homophobic extremists. She has participated in the doxxing and stalking of transgender youth, and has run her entire campaign, as well as her time as president of the Chino Valley Unified School District, as a transphobe who seeks to make schools less inclusive of queer youth. This is not a biased or partisan take - it’s something she’s proud of.
Social Media Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SonjaShaw2026
Twitter: https://twitter.com/realSonjaShaw
On Instagram and Twitter, she often collaborates with anti-trans activists across the region to encourage the harassment of transgender youth. As recently as May 4th, she posted an event advertisement from an anti-trans group encouraging people to attend a high school sporting event in Orange County in order to harass and bully the single transgender athlete expected to be there. We will not be sharing that post as we don’t want to make it any easier to locate and doxx this child, but it is on her Instagram.
She published a video post on April 27 with Anti-Trans extremist “Billboard Chris” Elston. She said, “California politicians are pushing misguided and dangerous gender ideology on our kids. I am a mom running for State Superintendent here in California to protect our sons and daughters.” She then turned the camera to Chris, who said, “Hi everybody, I’m Chris, from the lovely communist country of Canada, and I travel the world raising awareness of what is undoubtedly the greatest child abuse scandal in modern medicine history. The practice of trying to change the sex of children with puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones and surgeries, and I can tell you, of all the amazing people I have met world-wide, number one in America is right here, Sonja Shaw. No one will fight harder to protect your kids than this woman.”
She collaborated on a post with Christian Nationalist organization Salt and Light OC, a selfie video with Moms For Liberty. There was a peaceful protest held outside of the event. Sonja, filming in selfie mode, exited the building to confront the protesters, where she smiled sarcastically and said, ‘Yay! Look at my new friends! (...) This is what we have to deal with in California.” As the crowd chanted “Trans Rights are Human Rights”, she continued, referring to the protesters, “They tell kids they’re born in the wrong body! We tell them that they are beautiful the way they were made.” A man holding a sign that said “Trans Rights are Human Rights | Diversity is the one thing we ALL have in common” said something inaudible on the camera to Sonja, and she replied to him, “Yeah, we know you’re focused on the children! And you shouldn’t be, sir! (....) The tolerant, loving crew… Why don’t you tell everyone why you hate us so much? Why do you hate moms?” she asked the man with the sign, who introduced himself as Cameron Tennyson, and that he is running for Congress. She asked him why he was there, and he said because he believed kids should be free - she interjected and said, “Free to be what? So you can cut off healthy body parts and it's okay?” He said that wasn’t up to him. She later went back inside, saying, “This is the craziness. This is why we fight so hard, because THEY want to be in charge of YOUR children. Right? No. We say no. Over our dead bodies. They are freaking psychos. No offense, but I mean, come on. THAT (referring to the protesters and Cameron Tennyson) wants to take over and be in charge of parents’ rights? This is what we’re dealing with, guys, wake up California! It’s not radical to be a mother or father here! It’s radical what they’re doing to kids!”
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook: (This is a small cross-section of a much longer list)
Kelly Felton, anti-trans activist out of Tustin USD
California Family Council, an anti-trans and anti-public education conservative thinktank
Joseph Komrosky, school board trustee out of Temecula Valley USD who sought to remove Harvey Milk from school history book curriculums, calling Milk a pedophile
Beth Bourne, a dangerous anti-trans activist who doxxes children
Salt and Light OC, a Christian Nationalist organization in Orange County
Patty Cabada, an anti-trans activist who supported the HB Book Ban efforts
Assemblyman David Tangipa, who is proudly anti-LGBTQ+
Manuk Grigoryan, anti-trans extremist who runs the SoCal based “Leave Our Kids Alone” hate group
Tish Hyman, LA Mayoral candidate who promised to ‘get rid of’ trans people in LA if she wins
Michael Gates, fmr. Huntington Beach city attorney, who lost his job with the Trump DOJ after complaints from his colleagues that he created a hostile work environment for women
Chloe Cole, radical anti-trans activist
Candidate’s Public Comments:
The mother of a transgender athlete sent Sonja Shaw a cease and desist letter after Shaw repeatedly doxxed her child from a public platform. Shaw ripped this letter up on camera on the dais during a CVUSD board meeting in March of 2025, saying, “...a boy is stealing these opportunities from girls, because that’s the truth. If you don’t like it, I’m sorry, I also have first amendment rights, and I will never shut up in regards to that, so this cease and desist? (At this point she held up the letter and ripped it in half.) That’s how I feel about that, cease and desist.”
In April of 2024, she challenged the sole member of the CVUSD board who did not join her efforts to harass trans students, saying during a meeting, “These are girls, and until this day - Mr. Bridge, can you answer a question? Are you okay with a twelve-year-old seeing male’s penis in the bathroom? Are you okay with a male going on a girl’s softball team and taking away those opportunities for that girl? So just because you may have not heard it, it does happen here. Do the right thing.”
****Note from Pride at the Pier: In case it needs to be spelled out, if you’re seeing the genitalia of other people in the bathroom, you’re the one violating the privacy of other people. Additionally, there have not been any verified reports of trans students in California (of any gender) willfully exposing themselves to their peers. This is a fear-mongering tactic that is not rooted in any truth.
Shaw had current Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond thrown out of a CVUSD meeting by police after he came to defend the rights and dignity of trans students in the district. On the agenda - forced outing policies, requiring teachers to out any trans student to their parents or face discipline, regardless of the students’ consent. As the chaos was unfolding, Shaw said to Thurmond, “You’re in Sacramento proposing things that pervert children.”
Endorsed by: (This is an incomplete list, a cross-section. Click the link for the full list.)
Chad Bianco
Steve Hilton
Riley Gaines (anti-trans activist and far-right commentator)
Howard Jarvis Taxpayer Association
Moms for Liberty
Reform California
Ken Calvert, CA legislator
Leticia Castillo, CA legislator
Diane Dixon, CA legislator
Laurie Davies, CA legislator
Bill Essayli, fmr. CA legislator and current Trump DOJ US Attorney in LA
Kate Sanchez, CA legislator who pushed to ban trans girls from CA sports
Don Wagner, OC Supervisor who voted to ban the Pride Flag
Tony Strickland, CA Legislator and fmr. HB City Councilman who voted to ban the Pride Flag
Dr. Ryan Bent, NOCCCSD Trustee who attended an anti-trans walkout at an OC school in 2025
Corey A. DeAngelis, popular Christian Nationalist figure
Michael Gates, fmr. HB City Attorney who was removed from his position in the Trump DOJ after complaints that he created a hostile work environment for women
Sophia Lorey, anti-trans activist and paid consultant at the CA Family Council
Jessica Tapia, anti-trans activist
Leandra Blades, PYLUSD Trustee who has repeatedly pushed anti-LGBTQ agenda items, as well as a school board resolution to support ICE and DHS
Brenda Lebsack, SAUSD Trustee who tried to remove suicide hotline signs from Santa Ana schools because the hotline worked with the Trevor Project
Candidate in the News:
Sonja Shaw Working to Restore Opening Prayers to Board Meetings
The next generation of Trump-inspired showmen are in Riverside County, California
Chino Valley school board challenges injunction barring prayer at its meetings
Righteous mother or right-wing zealot? The soccer mom leading California’s parental rights movement
California school board battles over LGBTQ+ rights intensify after transgender vote in Chino
How conservatives are waging a coordinated, anti-LGBTQ+ culture war in California schools
Conservative school board kicks out State Superintendent Tony Thurmond from meeting
Back to school: California Republicans bet big on local board races
Public Voting Record:
Shaw was a key witness in the committee hearing opposing AB 1578, which would require local and state officials to take regular anti-hate speech training. Her argument against it was that she wanted to continue to perpetuate anti-trans hate speech, and argued that said anti-trans hate speech wasn’t actually hate speech at all.
Shaw was a key witness in the committee hearing AB 1955, which would prevent school districts from requiring teachers to forcibly out students. Her argument was that this was a violation of parents’ rights.
Shaw’s time as president of the Chino Valley USD has been filled with a number of significant anti-LGBTQ+ agenda items, including book bans, forced outing policies, and policies against the equitable access for trans students in the district. She’s also been involved in a number of lawsuits against the state of California for these matters, which have required votes to go through the school board to initiate.
Follow the Money: Shaw appears to have not filed her recent campaign finances, as we have very little reported filings for this current campaign available to us, outside of;
$9,800 from the Supporters of Chad Bianco for Sheriff-Coroner 2028
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*Information as of our June 2026 Primary Guide*
Campaign Statement:
It is an honor to serve as State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond's Senior Advisor, and to be endorsed by the California Teachers Association (CTA), representing 300,000+ classroom teachers, nurses, counselors and educators. California Teachers of the Year Tammy Reina and Zenaida Rosario: "We trust Richard to fight for our students and educators. He has delivered for 18 years!" As President of San Diego Unified School District, the state's 2nd largest, I transformed a district in crisis into a national model of success. Among all large urban districts, we now rank Number 1 in Reading and Math on "The Nation's Report Card." In California, we're First in Reading, Math, Science, Graduation Rates and College/Career readiness. We've achieved success by cutting waste and bureaucracy, and investing directly in our students, families and educators. I successfully asked voters 4 times to replace 60 year old buildings with state-of-the-art, environmentally sustainable schools. We increased educator salaries by 40%, provided full family healthcare and created thousands of affordable homes for our families and educators. I've fought to protect students from the heartless Trump administration: keeping ICE out of our schools, standing up for LGBTQ students, and testifying before Congress against Trump's drastic cuts to education. I am endorsed by those most responsible for student success—from the classroom teachers of CTA to the school principals of United Administrators of Southern California, and Cindy Marten, President Biden's Deputy Secretary of Education. Current Superintendent of Public Instruction, Tony Thurmond: "Richard Barrera's track record of student success is unmatched. That's why I asked him to join us at the California Department of Education. That's why I support him in this election." BarreraforEdu.com
Email: rbcoi@yahoo.com
Campaign Website: https://www.barreraforedu.com/
Priorities from campaign website:
Build a Strong, Sustainable Teacher Pipeline
Expanding early childhood education
Secure, sustainable funding for stronger schools
Empowering communities to find their schools - because our kids can’t wait
Making housing affordable for educators
Building schools where every student belongs
Prioritizing mental health in every school
Delivering equity: Real opportunities for every student
Other Interesting Info:
Richard has served on the San Diego Board of Education since 2008.
As a board member of the San Diego BOE, he has asserted that the district will continue to move forward with ethnic studies requirements, even as Gov. Newsom’s office has withheld the funds associated with the law requirement for those studies.
Berrara is supportive of charter schools, but expresses that there must be greater regulations on the industry than currently exists, to avoid a “Wild West” of charters.
Social Media Links:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577254612647
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/richardbarrera2026
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-barrera-2079723a9/
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
CA Democrats
Equality CA
San Diego Building Trades
Our Schools USA & Capo USD
Stone Wall Dems
SF League of Pissed Off Voters
San Diego Youth Services
ACLU NorCal
1st Gen Scholars
Jewish Family Services San Diego
The Cesar Chavez Foundation
CA Teachers Association
United We Dream
Feeding San Diego
Tony Thurmond
Congressional Hispanic Caucus
CA Legislative LGBTQ Caucus
CA Legislative Women’s Caucus
Congressional Black Caucus
Harvey Milk LGBTQ Democratic Club
NAACP San Diego
Candidate’s Public Comments: (The following are taken from interviews with Barrera conducted by news agencies; find these links below)
‘Like the other candidates, Barrera opposes Gov. Gavin Newsom’s proposal to restructure the California Department of Education under a governor-appointed education commissioner. The state superintendent would no longer manage the department. “It’s undemocratic to take responsibility and authority away from the person that the voters are electing to improve schools,” Barrera said. “In practical terms, there is no reason to assume a governor would do a better job at appointing the people to run CDE than a state superintendent would.”’
When asked about how he would manage engagement with the Trump administration, which has been antagonistic to LGBTQ+ students, “My track record at San Diego Unified, going back to the first Trump administration, has been to help lead the way to protect all of our students, whether that’s our immigrant students or LGBTQ students. We’ve put policies in place, strategies in place and connected families to community-based resources to push back at that. The president of the United States is choosing to act in an unlawful way and in a way that picks on certain groups of people, to advance his own political agenda, and there’s no room for putting our head down and hoping, “Well, if we just go along with a little bit of it, maybe we won’t be targets.” There’s just no room for that. You’ve got to stand up. We’ve got to fight back in every way possible, including in court. The fact that Trump is using federal education resources as leverage to try to get both the state and local school districts to capitulate to his agenda is all the more reason for us to go and raise that revenue ourselves. The people in this state who are going to benefit from his tax cuts have a responsibility also to make sure that we’ve got the resources we need so that we’re not vulnerable to his threats. We should make sure that we’ve got, you know, the resources ourselves so that we can’t be held hostage. But we should go further and say, and by the way, the federal government should be doing a lot more than it ever has. The federal government has always under invested in education. Special education is the perfect example. The kind of investment we saw during COVID, that was the investment we always needed for schools.”
When asked about AI, he replied, “I think the real question is, is the use of AI in writing dumbing things down to the point where students are becoming poorer writers and thinkers because they’re relying on a machine to do that for them? … Or is it something that’s assisting with the grinding grunt work of writing that allows you to get more depth? (...) My guess is these particular tools could go either way and probably do go either way.”
When asked how he would serve vulnerable populations, he said, “California has to protect students in ways that are real at the school level. In San Diego Unified, we treat immigration enforcement as a student safety and trust issue. We train staff, protect student privacy and keep campuses focused on learning so families stay connected to schools. That should be the statewide standard. For LGBTQ+ students, the state should insist on safe school climates and enforce nondiscrimination protections consistently. For students with disabilities, the law is clear: Services are not optional, and districts need both oversight and support to deliver them. When the federal government threatens to withhold funding from our schools unless we abandon protections for students, I will challenge unlawful actions and make sure districts do not retreat out of fear. The state’s job is to make sure students are safe, included and able to learn.”
‘Richard Barrera, vice president of SDUSD’s Board of Education, argued that the recent raid by Immigration and Customs Enforcement at South Park’s Buona Forchetta, located a block and a half away from a district school, was an “attempt to strike fear into the hearts of (SDUSD) families.” He described how parents were forced to pick up their students from the back of the school in order to shield them from what was happening nearby. “We don’t ignore the reality that when the federal government decides it no longer is going to have schools under safe haven status, what that does is provokes fear in our communities,” Barrera said. Barrera added that the district will never ask students and families about their immigration status or allow immigration officials to enter the district’s campuses or access student records without a federal judicial warrant.’ source
Endorsed by (click link for full list):
Current California State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Tony Thurmond
Congressman, Juan Vargas
State Senator, Art Torres (Ret)
Former LA Unified Board President, Former Member of the Assembly, Jackie Goldberg
Chair of the San Diego County Board of Supervisors, Terra Lawson-Remer
Los Angeles Unified School Board Trustee, Rocio Rivas
Vista Unified School Board Member Cipriano Vargas
San Diego Community College Board Trustee, Craig Milgrim
Deputy Secretary of Education, Former SD Unified Superintendent, Cindy Marten
(UASC) United Administrators Southern California
California Teachers Association (CTA)
United Domestic Workers (UDW)
Administrator’s Association of San Diego
San Diego Building Trades Council
San Diego Unified Police Officers Association
United Taxi Workers of San Diego
Candidate in the News:
EdSource: Labor unions splits among Dem candidates for State Supe
During federal anti-immigrant crackdown, San Diego schools affirm student protections
What Reforms Did SDU Implement Under Barrera and What Were the Outcomes?
The man who shaped the workers' revolution at San Diego Unified
Fact Check: San Diego Unified's Bragging Rights on Dropout Rates
$19,800.00 from United Domestic Workers of America Action Fund
$19,600.00 from California Teachers Association/association for Better Citizenship
$7,259.83 from Van Pelt Construction Services
$3,588.19 from Architects Mosher Drew
$2,500.00 from Sheet Metal Workers Local 206 PAC
$2,500.00 from Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation
Attorney General
As the state’s chief legal officer, the attorney general can file lawsuits against the federal government to block policies they believe overstep legal boundaries or infringe upon the civil rights of their residents. This power serves as a critical check and balance, allowing states to defend their own laws and protect vulnerable communities from federal actions they deem unconstitutional.
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*Information as of our June 2026 Primary Guide
Incumbent, running for CA Attorney General
Campaign Statement, if any: None Found
Email: None Found
Campaign Website: https://robbonta.com/
Bonta’s campaign website leads with; “Justice for all. Attorney General Rob Bonta is running for re-election to protect our freedoms, defend our democracy, and stand up to abuse of power wherever it appears. The fight is far from over — but together we’ll keep standing up to stop unlawful power grabs by the federal government, defend our immigrant communities, protect reproductive freedom, hold greedy corporations accountable, keep our communities safe from gun violence and fentanyl trafficking, safeguard our environment, and so much more.”
Any Other Interesting Info:
Rob Bonta worked with Equality California to launch the first-ever State of Pride report and forum, tracking and advocating for the progress of LGBTQ+ rights in California. Source
During the current Trump presidential administration, Bonta has led or co-led over 60 lawsuits against the Trump administration on behalf of Californians. A small sample of these includes:
California v. Trump (Birthright Citizenship): Sued to block the Executive Order ending birthright citizenship; the case is currently before the U.S. Supreme Court (Trump v. Barbara).
Newsom v. Trump (National Guard): Successfully blocked the federalization and deployment of the California National Guard for civilian law enforcement.
California v. Trump (DOGE Data Access): Led a coalition to prevent the Department of Government Efficiency from accessing private state-held data (SSNs and bank info).
California v. Dept. of Education (Teacher Grants): Secured an order restoring $600 million in federal grants for teacher training and student mental health.
California v. HUD (Housing Discrimination): Challenged federal rules that penalized states for inclusive housing policies and gender identity protections.
California v. EPA (Vehicle Emissions): Sued to stop the repeal of the 2009 Greenhouse Gas Endangerment Finding, which protects state tailpipe standards.
State of California v. Wright (Clean Energy): Filed to recover $1.2 billion in hydrogen hub (ARCHES) funding canceled by the Department of Energy.
California v. DOE (Sable Pipelines): Suing to block federal use of the Defense Production Act to restart oil pipelines in Santa Barbara against state safety laws.
Oregon et al. v. Trump (Tariff Challenge): Co-leading a 24-state suit against the 10% universal tariffs, arguing they are an illegal tax on consumers.
Massachusetts v. USDA (SNAP Conditions): Blocking federal attempts to tie food assistance (SNAP) funding to discriminatory state policy changes.
Pennsylvania et al. v. Trump (Voting Rights): Challenging an Executive Order that attempts to restrict mail-in voting and interfere with state-run election authority.
Bonta has also been involved in lawsuits and legal responses against California-based entities in efforts to defend LGBTQ+ rights. A small sample includes:
California v. Chino Valley Unified: Sued to block "forced outing" policies that required schools to notify parents of a student's gender transition. The case ended in early 2025 with the district rescinding the policy.
Mirabelli v. Bonta: Defending California’s SAFETY Act, which protects student privacy. The U.S. Supreme Court issued an emergency ruling in March 2026 temporarily allowing parents to receive gender identity information, but Bonta continues to litigate the full merits of the case.
California v. Rady Children’s Health (2026): Sued Rady for closing its gender-affirming care clinic. Bonta alleges the closure violates the 2024 merger agreement with CHOC, which legally required Rady to maintain specialty services through 2034.
California v. City of Huntington Beach: Challenged local ordinances that banned the Pride flag on public property and restricted LGBTQ+ books in libraries, arguing they violate the Unruh Civil Rights Act.
Temecula Valley Unified Investigation: Initiated civil rights actions to stop the school board from banning LGBTQ-inclusive curriculum and implementing discriminatory notification policies.
California v. Trump (PREA Protections): Leading a multi-state effort to block federal attempts to remove Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) protections that specifically safeguard transgender individuals in custody.
Social Media Links:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RobBonta
Campaign Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robbonta
Campaign Twitter: https://x.com/robbonta
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
(Twitter) Dave Min
(Twitter) CA Assembly Democrats
(Twitter) Brett Meiselas (Co-Founder of Meidas Touch)
(Twitter) Brady PAC (Gun Violence Prevention PAC)
Candidate’s Public Comments:
When interviewed by ABC 30 Action News at the first ever State of Pride event in San Francisco, Bonta said, “I'm proud to stand and serve in a state that stands with our LGBTQ community (...) The stakes are high, the attacks are disgusting, the targeting is strong, now more than ever we need each other”.
At the same event, he was quoted by Vanguard News Group as saying, “It is more important than ever that we recommit ourselves to the ongoing fight for equality, safety, and inclusion.” Source
Bonta lambasted the treatment of human beings at the ICE concentration camp in California City, saying, “My team has seen and heard first-hand the dangerous conditions at California’s newest detention facility — conditions that violate ICE’s own standards. I implore DHS to take action to address these serious issues”. The full letter he sent to the Department of Homeland Security can be found here.
Endorsed by: (This is an incomplete list, a cross-section. Click the link to see them all)
Gavin Newsom, Governor
Malia Cohen, California State Controller
Dr. Shirley Weber, California Secretary of State
Senator Adam Schiff
Senator Alex Padilla
Senator Cory Booker
Rep. Robert Garcia
Rep. Pete Aguilar
Rep. Gil Cisneros
Rep. Ro Khanna
Rep. Dave Min
Rep. Mike Levin
Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson
Riverside Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson
Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee
Service Employees International Union (SEIU) California
Teamsters California
California Teachers Association (CTA)
Sierra Club CA
California Environmental Voters
Dolores Huerta
Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California
Smart Justice CA
Equality California
California Medical Association
Courage Campaign
Stacey Abrams
David Hogg
Elise Joshi
Jane Fonda
Candidate in the News:
California LGBTQ community still worried for transgender youth
California, other states sue over Trump administration’s latest cuts to HIV programs
California AG Highlights Increase in Anti-LGBTQ+ Hate Crimes in New Report
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, California AG Rob Bonta receive awards from Victory Fund
Attorney General Rob Bonta Adds Missouri, Nebraska, Wyoming To State Travel Ban
CA attorney general slams conditions at California’s largest ICE detention facility
The filing deadline for campaign finance documents has not yet passed, so we don’t have his most recent donations to review. These are mostly from late 2025.
$500 from the Alan Wong for Supervisor 2026 campaign
***Note: When candidates for office terminate their campaigns, they have to redistribute the donations they receive in a handful of legal ways, including donating to another campaign.
$19,600 from the California Teachers Association/Association For Better Citizenship
$3,500 from the United Association of Journeymen & Apprentices of the U.S. & Canada Local 447 Federal PAC (Fed PAC ID # C00320218)
$500 from the Berkeley Firefighters Association Local 1227 Political Action Committee
$1,000 from the San Jose Firefighters, IAFF Local 230 Political Action Committee
$5,000 from the Sacramento Area Fire Fighters Local 522 Political Action Committee
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*Information as of our June 2026 Primary Guide*
***PRIDE AT THE PIER CONTENT WARNING:
THIS ELECTION GUIDE FOR MICHAEL GATES INCLUDES MANY EXAMPLES OF TRANSPHOBIA AND HOMOPHOBIA FROM THIS CANDIDATE, AND MAY BE UPSETTING FOR SOME.
The information in this guide is a very small percentage of the homophobic and transphobic actions and statements made by this candidate.
Statements made by this candidate are rife with misinformation. We are simply sharing to educate voters on the stances of this candidate and what they have been quoted as saying by other sources. Please check all sources for cited information.
Campaign Statement, if any:
“Michael E. Gates | REPUBLICAN
California families deserve to be safe again. Crime is rising, homelessness is out of control, fraud with taxpayer dollars is rampant, and our children—especially young girls—are not being protected. The Office of Attorney General should be focused on enforcing the law and keeping families safe, not playing politics. I'm a husband and father of five, and like every parent, I want our children to grow up in safe communities. That's why public safety has always been my top priority. As the City Attorney for Huntington Beach, I fought for the people. I created a city criminal prosecutor program that prosecuted quality-of-life crimes and reduced crime by double digits. We proved that when the law is enforced, communities thrive. As Attorney General, I will make crime illegal again by prosecuting all crimes, including enforcing Proposition 36, and use the law to address homelessness by holding criminals accountable while getting people off our streets and into treatment. I will stand up for police, support law enforcement and defend them when they are unfairly attacked. I will also bring proven programs that lowered crime and homelessness in Huntington Beach to cities across California. I will aggressively prosecute fraud and corruption in Sacramento, protect parents' rights, enforce laws that keep boys out of girls' sports and support Voter ID. This is a serious office. I will fight for everyday Californians and bring accountability and safety back to California. Learn more at www.Gates4AG.com.”
Email: info@gates4ag.com
Campaign Website: https://www.gates4ag.com/
Gates’ website leads with the following phrase; “Safe families, safe communities. As our next Attorney General, Michael Gates will fight for what matters most: our families, our communities, and our safety.”
Any Other Interesting Info:
On his website, Gates talks about his experience defending police officers in court while serving as the city attorney for Huntington Beach (2014-2025). These cases against HBPD are often on the topic of police misconduct - you can read a bit more about these cases here, on the website of one of the prosecuting attorneys that has been involved in challenging HBPD in these cases.
When Gates left his role as Huntington Beach City Attorney, his salary was over $300,000 a year - higher even than the salary of the City Attorney of Los Angeles, a much larger city.
During his time as Huntington Beach City Attorney, Gates built a reputation for pursuing lawsuits on behalf of the city at a higher rate than the average city attorney, and with lawsuits that were blatantly partisan. A number of these lawsuits panned out poorly for various reasons, causing Gates’ reputation even amongst conservatives in the city to drop. A small sample of these lawsuits can be found here:
Huntington Beach releases details of lucrative settlement with Pacific Airshow operator
Huntington Beach ordered to pay $1M in legal fees for censoring library books
US Supreme Court Goes Dark on Huntington Beach’s Housing Battle Against Sacramento
Huntington Beach Continues to Lose Lawsuits Arguing Charter City Rights
Huntington Beach asks Ninth Circuit to revive challenge to California 'forced outing' ban
Gates is an ardent supporter of Voter ID laws and has spoken in support of the voter fraud conspiracy theories. His work as the Huntington Beach City Attorney was heavily involved with these efforts.
Gates has repeatedly promoted misinformation about transgender issues, especially gender affirming care, inclusivity in schools, and trans athletes.
Gates was one of a number of elected officials in Orange County who joined the pile-on of Olympic athlete Imane Khelif after she was wrongfully accused of being a transgender woman, prompting an anti-trans panic. Gates, to this day, asserts without evidence that Khelif is a transgender woman and that the entire Olympic committee is keeping that a secret from the world.
In 2025, Gates was hired to work in the Trump administration as a Deputy U.S. Attorney, during which time he - by his own testimony - pursued investigations against transgender individuals and those who support them, as well as investigations into so-called voter fraud. We’ll quote him further down on that.
However, his time in the administration lasted approximately ten months before coming to an end. The OC Register - known for its conservative bias - reported in November 2025 that Gates was fired from the administration “for cause”, based on records requests. Interviews the Register conducted revealed that there had been complaints against Gates by his colleagues that he had created a hostile work environment for women. Per the Register, “He allegedly had a “consistent pattern” of referring to female colleagues by derogatory and demeaning names, the source said, and complained about the employment of a woman who was pregnant”.
Gates denied the entire story, asserting that he had chosen to resign from the Trump Administration because he was homesick, and that any negative word about him from his former colleagues was merely because they were angry that he resigned.
Social Media Links:
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-e-gates-6b05308a/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michael.e.gates/
Twitter: https://x.com/MichaelGatesESQ
Facebook: Gates does have a Facebook, but this researcher has been blocked by him.
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
Tito Ortiz: MAGA, UFC Fighter, short stint as Mayor of HB.
David Tangipa: CA Assemblymember and anti-trans activist
Dana Rohrabacher: Fmr. Congressman, MAGA
Basilico’s HB: Openly fascist Italian restaurant in HB
***Note: The term “fascist” here is not hyperbole, but in fact a term used in its specific definition; this restaurant’s owners use their platform to call for the arrest of politicians, “re-education camps” for anyone to the left of them (including some Republicans), and the use of the United States military to violently occupy places like New York and California to install martial law and military tribunals for protesters.
Julie Hamill, a lawyer affiliated with the CA Policy Center and anti-trans activist
(Twitter) Rick Leventhal: Host of the Leventhal Report on NewsMax
(Twitter) Sophia Lorey: Anti-trans activist and paid consultant at the CA Family Council
(Twitter) Nick Shirley
(Twitter) Reform CA
(Twitter) Spencer Pratt
(Twitter) Nicki Minaj
Candidate’s Public Comments:
***Note: Statements made by this candidate are rife with misinformation. We are simply sharing to educate voters on the stances of this candidate and what they have been quoted as saying by other sources. Please check all sources for cited information.
In an event at Basilico’s, an openly fascist Italian restaurant in HB known for its extreme politics, Gates spoke to attendees about what he was accomplishing in his role in the Trump administration. “...We’re fighting all that reverse discrimination as well. Defending women, getting men out of women’s sports. When it comes to all the transgender bullshit, we - we are fighting, we are fighting all that transgender, all the mutilization of children, we are fighting that. But what I am happy to report, is, you know, close to my heart, is that I am, I’m privileged to be able to fight a lot of the election integrity irregularities. So, I got a number of cases right now.”
In Gates’ statement about being hired by the Trump administration, he said, “I am profoundly humbled and honored for this opportunity to serve the American people at a time like this - to advance President Trump's "America First" agenda, fight to restore law and order throughout the country, and fight to restore faith in the Nation's justice system.”
Via his twitter, post dated April 24th 2026: “(Rob Bonta) sued Children’s Hospitals to FORCE trans surgeries on MINORS and he fought for SECRET trans grooming in schools by teachers! (...) Sicko!”
Via his twitter, post dated March 28, 2025, he posted about the Federal Government investigating CA over AB 1955, a law that prevents school districts from requiring teachers to forcibly out students to their parents. He said, “Going on offense against California’s unconstitutional AB 1955 - a law that inserts State educators in the parent child relationship on gender issues. Proud of DOE for fighting to protect families by combatting State overreach! (US Flag Emoji, US Flag Emoji, US Flag Emoji)”
When asked his take on the Attorney General’s responsibility to the homelessness crisis, Gates replied, “...cities cannot simply allow dangerous encampments to grow or refuse to address conditions that threaten public safety and quality of life. On homelessness, I believe enforcement and treatment must go together. Anti-camping laws matter because public spaces should be safe and usable for everyone.”
Endorsed by: (For the complete list, click the hyperlink)
California Republican Party
Lincoln Club of Orange County
Patriots4Freedom-San Diego
California Rifle & Pistol Association
American Independent Party of California
***Note: American Independent does not mean No Party Preference. AI is a far-right party.
California Parents Union
California Cities for Local Control
The Israeli-American Civic Action Network (ICAN)
Don Wagner,Orange County Supervisor
Janet Nguyen, Orange County Supervisor
Hugh Nguyen, Orange County Clerk-Recorder
Shari Friedenrich, Orange County Treasurer
Claude Parrish, Orange County Tax Assessor
Sonja Shaw, CVUSD Board President and anti-trans extremist
Steve Knoblock, Mayor Pro Tem of San Clemente who tried to institute an abortion ban in the city
Steve Hilton, Candidate for Governor of California
Mike Munzig, Mayor Pro Tem Aliso Viejo who tried to institute a Pride Flag ban
All members of the Huntington Beach City Council
Don Barnes, Orange County Sheriff
John Zanoni, Fresno County Sheriff
Donny Yongblood, Kern County Sheriff
Michael Boudreaux, Tulare County Sheriff
Candidate in the News:
Former Huntington Beach City Atty. Michael Gates says claims of DOJ firing are false
Huntington Beach’s Michael Gates announces bid for California attorney general
Trump Administration Chooses a Critic of California Elections to Monitor Them
Michael Gates is back, and so is Huntington Beach’s losing streak
Huntington Beach MAGAs want to take their revolution to Sacramento
Your guide to the California attorney general race: Rob Bonta vs. Michael Gates
Michael Gates, California attorney general candidate, 2026 primary election questionnaire
Public Voting Record:
Not applicable
$9,800 from the Newport Beach Police Association Political Action
$5,900 from the campaign fund for Chad Williams for City Council 2024
***Campaign Finance Filings for this race are still being processed, so this is an incomplete list.
Secretary of State
The California Secretary of State serves as the state's chief elections official and oversees the formal registration of businesses and non-profit organizations. In addition to managing the state’s historical archives, they protect civil rights by expanding voter access and ensuring that every Californian can participate in a secure and transparent democratic process.
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*Information as of our June 2026 Primary Guide
Campaign Statement:
“Shirley N. Weber | DEMOCRATIC
I will never give up on protecting your voting rights. We are not in normal times. We need strong leaders to stand up and fight for what is right and just. I was born in the Jim Crow south to sharecroppers who couldn't vote. California welcomed us with open arms and has been my home ever since. My parents cast their first votes here and even used our family living room as a polling place. America is the only country in the world where within one generation a family can go from Jim Crow disenfranchisement, to administering elections in the largest state in the nation. We've come so far, and I've seen it firsthand. However, there are people that want to roll back that progress. They want shorter polling hours, fewer days to vote and the removal of vote-by-mail ballots. Some of them have even threatened the lives of election officials when their preferred candidate loses. This behavior will not be tolerated in California. As Secretary of State, 28 statewide and special elections were successfully held. When our voting rights were under attack, I fought for us in the courts, and won. I've been a transparent leader because trust is everything. Every eligible Californian should register to vote and cast their ballot whether we agree politically or not. I will continue to fight to make sure that nothing stands between you and the ballot box. Vote Dr. Shirley N. Weber for Secretary of State. Visit www.DrShirleyWeber.com to learn more.
E-mail: info@drshirleyweber.comFacebook: facebook.com/ShirleyWeber4SOSX: x.com/drweber4ca”
Email: info@drshirleyweber.com
Campaign Website: https://drshirleyweber.com/
Priorities listed on her website:
A Defender of Voting Rights
Restoring Trust and Transparency:
Encourage Californians to Vote:
She goes on to say on her campaign website’s main page, “Voting Rights Are Under Attack –
Dr. Weber Is Our Defender. In her first year as Secretary of State, Dr. Weber has already overseen a safe, secure, and seamless statewide election, and solidified California’s reputation as a national leader on strengthening the right to vote for every community. She’s also worked with the Governor and state legislature to make California a permanent, universal vote-by-mail state.”
Some of the experiences she has listed on her website include:
Protecting poll workers and election officials
Authored legislation to extend and ensure the right to vote for parolees
Fought for legislation on education, civil rights, public safety, food insecurity, protections for persons with disabilities, and voting rights
Any Other Interesting Info:
In an interview with CalMatters, Weber said she has focused on expanding voter outreach to rural corners of California and encouraging voter registration on high school and college campuses — something she said she would continue to focus on in her second term if she is re-elected.
For those who followed the city of Huntington Beach’s efforts to pass Voter ID laws for polling places within the city, Weber worked with current Attorney General Rob Bonta to successfully sue the city over this effort, and prevent Voter ID laws within the city that would have violated CA state laws.
Prior to her time in government, Weber served as a professor at San Diego State University and at California State University at Los Angeles and Los Angeles City College. Source
Weber faced criticism from some disability advocate groups who sued the state over what they felt were barriers to voting accessibility. Source
Social Media Links:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShirleyWeber4SOS
Campaign Twitter: https://x.com/drweber4ca?s=21
Personal Twitter: https://x.com/drshirleyweber?s=21
(Defunct) Instagram for an earlier legislative race: https://www.instagram.com/asmshirleyweber/
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
JD Vance (This is the “Vice President” account, so we’re unsure if she specifically followed Vance or if this is an account she followed prior to the current administration)
(Twitter) Sharon Quirk-Silva
(Twitter) Rob Bonta
(Twitter) CA Legislative Women’s Caucus
(Twitter) Jennifer Siebel Newsom (Spouse of Gavin Newsom)
(Twitter) Vote America
(Twitter) California Black Media
(Twitter) National Women’s Political Caucus California (Pro-Choice Caucus)
(Twitter) Alliance For Youth Action
(Twitter) VoteRiders (Organization to help voters navigate Voter ID laws)
(Twitter) UCLA Black Project
Emerge CA (An organization that trains women to run for office)
The King Center (MLK Jr. Memorial)
Yes on Prop 16 (Repeals the ban on affirmative action at Public Institutions)
Candidate’s Public Comments:
In response to criticisms about the slow process of counting votes in the 2024 election, Weber said, “I know the value of being fast for some folks (...) For me, accuracy is far more important.”
On protecting personal voter information from the Trump administration, she said, “If we were giving (voter information) away like candy, who would trust us … to protect their records?”
In an interview with the LA Times regarding the Huntington Beach City Council’s efforts to push through Voter ID laws, Weber said, “I will continue to uphold my promise to Californians to protect our democracy, and I will continue to challenge this administration’s disregard for the rule of law and our right to vote.”
During an event commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act where Weber was a guest speaker, she said, “When the president wanted to offer Martin Luther King all kinds of other things. They wanted him to have a housing act. They wanted him to have a poverty act. They wanted him to do all of these other things. But they never wanted to offer him the voting rights act. And King rejected all of those in 1964 because he understood the power of voting and the importance of making it possible for all people in this nation to be able to vote because that was their voice, that was their power, that was their expression. And so, as we have tried in this office as Secretary of State to make sure that we bring forth a number of things that people have forgotten, I discovered that a lot of folks don't know much about the Voting Rights Act of 1965. They thought it granted people the right to vote when it did not. They already had the right to vote, but they had to secure the vote. They had to make sure that people had access to it and they were not denied their opportunity to vote. (...) And so now, this is the 60th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. (...) When I took office a few years ago, I came to realize, as I pointed out to the governor and others, that this is going to be a critical period in our lives because we've all had an opportunity to vote. We've had this wonderful experience in this nation, and we knew that voting was under attack. And the question was always, are we as strong as our ancestors? Are we able to fight like they fought to maintain the right to vote and to exercise that right in going to the polls? So, we want to remind folks of what it means to be what the Voting Rights Act of 1965 did and those who were part of it, who lived through it and who understood why it was so very important for us to have it.”
Rob Bonta, Attorney General
Fiona Ma, State Treasurer
Malia Cohen, Controller
Ricardo Lara, Insurance Commissioner
Tony Thurmond, Superintendent of Education
Cecilia Aguiar Curry, Assemblymember
Blanca Rubio, Assemblymember
Dr. LaShae Sharp Collins, Assemblymember
Buffy Wicks, Assemblymember
Akilah Weber, MD, State Senator
California Professional Firefighters
Steamfitters & Refrigeration UA Local 250
California Federation of Teachers
AFSCME
UDWA/AFSCME Local 3930
CA State Council of Laborers
Democratic Party of the San Fernando Valley (DPSFV)
California Women’s List
Professional Engineers in California Government (PECG)
AFSCME District Council 36
California State Retirees
California YIMBY
SEIU
SEIU 1000
Westside Young Democrats
Democratic Women’s Club of San Diego
San Diego Democrats for Equality
Avance Democratic Club
Fallbrook Democratic Club
Association of California State Supervisor (ACSS)
NWPC California
California Teachers Association
California Donor Table
Communications Workers of America
Jane Fonda Climate PAC
Alice B. Toklas LGBTQ Democratic Club
Santa Barbara Women’s Political Committee
Central City Democrats
California Nurses Association
Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California
SFWPC
Stonewall Young Democrats
Black Women’s Collective PAC
Chino Valley Democratic Club
Bernal Heights Democratic Club
Iranian American Democrats of California (IADC)
ILWU Southern California District Council
California Black Women’s Collective PAC
Contra Costa Young Democrats
San Francisco Latino Democratic Club
Candidate in the News:
California’s race for secretary of state shows partisan divide over how to count ballots
California made it easier to vote, but some with disabilities still face barriers
Public Voting Record:
During her time in the state legislature, Weber received an “A” score from People’s Courage, who rate legislators based on how likely they are to cave to corporate lobbyist interests.
Weber championed AB 392, a bill that called for police reform by redefining the standard for police use of deadly force from "reasonable" to "necessary”.
Weber was one of 14 legislators to receive a score of “100” from the ACLU during her time as a legislator.
Weber authored AB 3121, which establishes the “Task Force to Study and Develop Reparation Proposals for African Americans” to summarize existing evidence of the institution of slavery that existed within the United States and the colonies and to recommend, among other things, the form and mode of compensation that should be awarded to descendants of people who were enslaved.
Follow the Money: There is limited campaign finance reporting available for this race so far, but we did find this:
$19,600 from the California Teachers Association/Association For Better Citizenship
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*Information as of our June 2026 Primary Guide*
Campaign Statement, if any:
“Donald P. (Don) Wagner | REPUBLICAN
As Secretary of State, I will restore Californians' trust in our election system and protect every eligible voter's fundamental American right to participate in our democracy. California's election system is broken. Thirty-six states and most democratic nations require voters to establish their identities at the polls. California does not. Election security is so weak at least one dog was registered to vote in California—and had its vote counted! While other large states can finish vote counts and announce results on Election Night, California takes 30 excruciating days. We are usually the last state in the country to stop counting and report final results. That's embarrassing and unacceptable. You deserve an excellent election system that is secure, efficient, accurate, and accessible to eligible voters only. As Secretary of State, I will work to institute common-sense reforms including: 1) Require Voter ID at the polls; 2) Require mail ballots to be returned by Election Day; 3) Prohibit “ballot harvesting” by paid canvassers. The Secretary of State also has a role in fixing California's business climate. The office must be modernized and made business friendly. As Secretary of State, I will fight against bad business policies that make California unaffordable and drive away our families, friends, and employers. I have the experience to deliver. I have served as a member of the California Legislature, Mayor of lrvine, Orange County Supervisor, and owned my own business. I pledge to protect your vote as Secretary of State. Learn more at WagnerforCalifornia.com.
4100 MacArthur Blvd., Ste. 310Newport Beach, CA 92660Tel: (714) 785-5949E-mail: donwagner@WagnerForCalifornia.comWagnerForCalifornia.com”
Email: donwagner@WagnerForCalifornia.com
Campaign Website: https://wagnerforcalifornia.com/
Don’s website leans hard into dog-whistles about the conspiracy that voters who are ineligible to vote are fraudulently voting. His website leads with this statement; “Californians deserve an excellent election system that is secure, efficient, accurate and accessible to every eligible voter. I will make sure that every eligible voter can participate in our democracy while also protecting the security of elections by ensuring that only eligible voters cast ballots.”
His priorities listed are:
Only eligible voters cast ballots
Elections are secure, efficient, accurate, and accessible
The Secretary of State's business division is "small-business friendly"
He also has on his website’s main page, “Don Wagner fully supports the Voter ID initiative that will soon be gathering signatures to go on the ballot in 2026!”
Any Other Interesting Info:
Wagner, currently on the OC Board of Supervisors, voted in 2023 to ban the Pride Flag from county properties, openly acknowledging that the agenda item was specifically about the Pride Flag, which he called “divisive”.
The Irvine Tolerance Coalition posted on Instagram a critique of Wagner, stating, “guess who’s back? On Aug. 26, Supervisor Don Wagner helped slide his old pal Christina Shea onto the OC Older Adults Advisory Commission — with a term that just happens to match his. Coincidence? Or a soft launch for Shea’s next political play? Let’s not forget: Shea’s record includes pushing anti-LGBTQ+ policies and leading the ugly fight for Measure N. Now, with a new appointment, and cryptic “recall” posts, she looks less like a seniors’ advocate and more like someone staging a comeback. Irvine deserves better than recycled hate politics.” ***Note: We are sharing this perspective as opinion from another source, not face.
Wagner expressed support for OC Sheriff Don Barnes when Barnes was criticized for collaborating with ICE, which is illegal under CA state law. Per the LA Times, “Supervisor Don Wagner pointed out that the 226 inmates who were referred to ICE constituted a small part of the more than 48,000 bookings that occurred in the jail last year. “The sheriff is to be saluted,” Wagner said, “not condemned for the very judicious use of his power that he’s outlined today.”
Social Media Links:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DonWagnerCA/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/donwagnerca/
Wagner’s OC Supervisor Instagram has a handful of posts celebrating holidays, including Good Friday, Easter, Passover, and Cinco De Mayo.
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
Wagner does not follow anyone on Instagram
On Facebook, Wagner’s following list is limited to his elected peers (bipartisan), local government bodies, and a handful of local nonpartisan organizations.
Candidate’s Public Comments:
Wagner was given a questionnaire by the OC Register for this campaign. The news article led with the statement, “Questionnaires may have been edited for spelling, grammar, length and, in some instances, to remove hate speech and offensive language.” Some of Don’s comments are as follows:
“I would also ask the legislature to remove the COVID-inspired mailing of ballots to everyone on the cluttered voting rolls. Having so many ballots out there, coupled with bloated voting rolls, allows for the possibility of interference and illegal influence over our elections. And even if such interference is not happening, the widespread perception of such interference undermines confidence in the system.”
“The mailing of ballots to every name on the bloated voting rolls, the extremely long “cure and correct” period and the 30-day counting period before certification are a few examples of changes to election laws that have led to widespread distrust. The secretary of state should have argued against those changes and worked to undo them rather than being a cheerleader for them. As secretary of state, I will work to undo these state election laws to restore transparency and trust.”
When asked about increasing accessibility, he said, “I do not believe typical Sacramento “one size fits all” mandates are necessary to increase accessibility. Local problems can and should be solved by working with, and having respect for, the local officials trying to solve the problem.”
When asked about Voter ID laws, Wagner said, “Because I support the voter ID initiative, I certainly will enforce it. But more importantly, since much of the state’s current political establishment opposes it, and has a history of not vigorously enforcing — or suing to stop — initiatives they don’t like, I pledge to the people of California that I will sue to protect voter ID if passed by the people. In fact, I will enforce the will of the people in a nonpartisan way as secretary of state. Regardless of my personal belief in the wisdom of an initiative or a candidate, if the people vote for that measure or person, I will consider it my sworn duty to enforce the people’s will.”
Howard Jarvis Taxpayer Assoc.
Pete Wilson, Former California Governor
Bruce McPherson, California Secretary of State (Ret.)
Bill Jones, California Secretary of State (Ret.)
Mike Munzing, Councilmember, Aliso Viejo (Introduced a Pride Flag Ban)
Ken Calvert, Member, US House of Representatives, R-Corona (Regularly votes in opposition of LGBTQ+ and minority rights, supports Voter Suppression)
Janet Nguyen, Member, Orange County Board of Supervisors, Fmr. State Senator
Diane Dixon, Assemblymember, Newport Beach
Shawn Steel, Fmr Chairman, California GOP (Significant Donor of anti-LGBTQ+ efforts)
Gracey Van Der Mark, City Councilwoman, Huntington Beach (Publicly Anti-LGBTQ+, Champion of Book Banning efforts)
Candidate in the News:
Don Wagner, California secretary of state candidate, 2026 primary election questionnaire
O.C. Supervisors deem Pride flag ‘divisive,’ ban it from display on county property
Orange County sheriff blasts state sanctuary law but says deputies won’t do immigration enforcement
There is a significant amount of overlap and confusion when researching campaign finance filings for Don’s campaign, as he is also running a campaign committee named “Don Wagner Ballot Measure Committee to Protect Fair Elections” which Wagner is running in an effort to get Voter ID on the ballot, and the election committees overlap in search engines. His campaign finance filings for the Secretary of State race do not appear to be fully filed at this time.
Lieutenant Governor
The California Lieutenant Governor serves as the state’s second-highest executive, acting as the President of the State Senate and sitting on powerful boards that manage public lands and higher education. They protect civil rights by using their tie-breaking vote in the Senate and their influence on university boards to advocate for inclusive policies and equitable access to state resources.
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*Information as of our June 2026 Primary Guide
Current Position: 34th state treasurer of California since January 7, 2019; Re-elected to second term in 2022.
Political Party: Democrat
“California stands at a crossroads in America's history. We need clear-eyed, proven leaders willing to stand tall and fight on behalf of every Californian. Defending California's values and people—especially women and immigrants—will be my top priority as your Lieutenant Governor. I'm the daughter of immigrants and there's no place for fear or intimidation in our state. I'll protect birthright citizenship from Trump's attacks, and hold ICE accountable for excessive violence. I've spent my life in public service standing up for women. As California State Treasurer, I funded reproductive health, birth control, and cancer screenings when Trump cut Title X funding. As Assemblywoman, I chaired the Select Committee on Domestic Violence to protect survivors. The Lieutenant Governor serves on the Coastal Commission and Boards of UC and CSU. I will fight Trump's plan to reopen offshore drilling, while defending universities and protecting academic freedom. I'll vote to freeze tuition so middle-class families can afford college. My mother was a public school teacher. That's why I'm committed to delivering a quality education to every California student. We live in an unprecedented moment—and California must chart the path forward—a future that embraces a shared belief in a better California for all. Join us, California Professional Firefighters, California Federation of Teachers, National Union of Healthcare Workers, Building Trades, Carpenters, Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis and more than 30 labor unions in our campaign at www.fionama.com. I love California and I humbly ask for your vote for Lieutenant Governor.”
Email: Fiona@FionaMa.com
Campaign Website: https://fionama.com/
She doesn’t have her priorities listed. However, on her website, she says she’s running because;
“I believe in the California dream
Making Government Work for Us (“get the most value for your tax dollars”)
Fighting for Our Future (“grow our economy, attract investment, and create high-quality jobs. I’ll work to make college more affordable and ensure seniors can age with dignity”)”
Any Other Interesting Info:
Fiona has served as state treasurer for the past seven years.
In 2021, Ma was accused of sexual harassment and racial discrimination in a lawsuit filed by a former employee. The suit was settled in 2024 by the state of California for $350,000. Per the AP, “The agreement filed Friday in Sacramento County Superior Court stems from a 2021 lawsuit filed by a former employee of the treasurer’s office — Judith Blackwell — who alleged Ma exposed herself and crawled into bed with her when they shared rooms at a hotel and a rental unit (...) Blackwell said that while sharing rooms, Ma called her into her bedroom several times, exposed her nude backside and climbed into Blackwell’s bed with her at least once.” Fiona said of the settlement, “From day one, I said this was a frivolous lawsuit filed by a disgruntled employee who fabricated claims in an attempt to embarrass me in hopes of receiving millions of dollars in a settlement.” This case was settled with a settlement, not a trial.
Fiona participated in the San Francisco Pride parade in 2025 - she can be seen from a parade float in these photos here. She’s also the Equality Icon Grand Marshal in the Long Beach Pride Parade. source
Social Media Links:
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
Californians for Safety and Justice (“We advocate for community based solutions that make California safer.)
Candidate’s Public Comments:
On May 1st, Fiona posted on her instagram, “This Mayday, we stand in solidarity with the hardworking men and women in labor who power our economy! Fiona Ma is proud to be the labor candidate in this race — fighting for the wages, workplace protections, and a bright future all Californians deserve.”
When interviewed by the OC Register, Ma said, “As state treasurer, I expanded college savings through CalKIDS and financed affordable housing. As lieutenant governor, I will scale student housing, expand need-based aid and strengthen transfer pathways from community colleges to four-year institutions. I will also align higher education with workforce needs, so students graduate into good-paying jobs. Access without completion is not equity, and I will fight to deliver both.”
When the San Jose Mercury News asked Ma what her three priorities were if elected, she replied with,
“Higher education affordability: One of my top priorities will be to build more affordable housing units on and around college campuses so that students do not have the burden of commuting long distances to school or sleeping in cars. I have also been working to improve our state financial aid system.
The environment: I will work to keep our coastlines clean and protect our water from pollution.
Health care: Access to quality, affordable health care is something every Californian deserves, regardless of their zip code or income level.”
In an interview with the OC Register, Ma said, “Equity must be built into every level of the system, not treated as an add-on.”
Endorsed by:
CA Federation of Labor Unions
California Nurses Association
Stonewall Young Democrats
Costa Mesa Democrats
Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis
Secretary of State Shirley Weber
State Controller Malia Cohen
Costa Mesa Mayor John Stephens
San Jose Mercury News
Candidate in the News:
California treasurer Fiona Ma tied to Chinese school cited in scathing audit - POLITICO
“The audit did not accuse Ma of wrongdoing.” Article from Politico - generally seen as left-leaning
Fiona Ma took money from Chinese school CEO probed for fraud
“Ma, who is running for lieutenant governor, has accepted more than $30,000 from Steven Ma, the founder of a $34,000-per-year, Qingdao-based boarding school under investigation for allegedly churning out bogus California diplomas for well-connected Chinese students.” Article from NY Post - Generally seen as heavily right-leaning
Fiona Ma, California lieutenant governor candidate, 2026 primary election questionnaire
Follow the Money: There isn’t much in the way of filed campaign filings yet. South AFL-CIO reported their contribution:
$307.15 total in April from South Bay AFL- CIO Labor Council Committee On Political Education
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*Information as of our June 2026 Primary Guide*
Campaign Statement, if any: None Found
Email: None Found
Campaign Website: https://www.gloriaromero4ltgov.com/
On her “About Me” page on her website, Gloria has highlighted a photo of her at a Steve Hilton rally in Huntington Beach, standing alongside Huntington Beach City Councilmembers Andrew Gruel (who called left-wing protesters ‘circus animals’ in 2025) and Gracey Van Der Mark (who pushed for the city’s Pride Flag Ban and has gained notoriety for her efforts to ban books in the HB library), as well as Calvary Chapel of Huntington Harbor lead pastor Joe Pedick, who has openly espoused extreme anti-LGBTQ rhetoric.
Her website also highlights her consistent support for charter schools, merit-based education reform, and “parental empowerment”. Important to note, the “Parents Rights” caucus is widely acknowledged by LGBTQ+ advocacy caucus to be a dog-whistle for anti-LGBTQ+.
Priorities:
“Restore merit in admissions, protect academic standards, and stop setting students up for failure.”
“Gloria will hold administrators and university officials accountable to ensure non-discrimination in access to every campus and academic programming.”
Note - in the language about this stance, Gloria specifically calls out protections for Jewish students, but does not cite any other specific demographic.
“Gloria will proudly stand up for women’s sports and Title IX. Fairness matters. Women deserve a level playing field, not excuses.” It’s worth noting that Lt. Governor is responsible for the state college system, and trans women are not allowed to compete or receive sports scholarships at the collegiate level.
Regarding the Lt. Governor’s responsibilities on the state’s land and coastal policies, Gloria will push for “a strong, common-sense voice for fire prevention, smarter land management, and faster rebuilding when disaster strikes.”
Any Other Interesting Info:
Romero was a registered Democrat when she was elected to the State Senate in 2001 - in 2024, she announced that she was switching her party registration to Republican. Publicly, she stated that her motivation to switch was her view that Democrats had abandoned working families and education reform.
Romero endorsed Trump’s 2024 run, and spoke at his Coachella rally.
Romero is a proud member of the Lexit movement (Latino Exit from the Democratic Party). Leaders in this movement have been heavily involved in extremist anti-LGBTQ efforts across Southern California, especially in the Inland Empire with Sonja Shaw.
Romero was elected in 2001, then again in 2006. She was ineligible to run in 2010 due to term limits. While specific district lines have changed, she represented the East Los Angeles area. She served as the Senate Majority Leader during that time.
Beyond her time as a State Senator, she also served a few years in the State Assembly.
She is the Founder/Executive Director of Scholarship Prep Charter School located in Santa Ana, CA.
Social Media Links:
Her Twitter account contains a number of negative posts about Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, which isn’t overtly related to CA politics, but there were enough of them that we found it worth noting.
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
Harmeet K. Dhillon. Dhillon is Asst. Attorney General in the Trump DOJ and co-founder of the Center for American Liberty, a law firm that actively fights to dismantle LGBTQ+ civil rights.
Kevin Kiley, CA Congressman
Chris Rufo, far-right activist deeply involved in the anti-trans movement
Jennifer Sey, extremist anti-trans activist and founder of XX-XY Athletics
Corey DeAngelis, Senior Research Fellow at the Heritage Foundation
Antonio Villaraigosa, former LA Mayor and Democratic Candidate for governor
America First Policy Institute State Action
Yoshi the Patriot, extremist far-right activist and content creator
Candidate’s Public Comments:
In an editorial piece she wrote for the California Post (right-wing publication, affiliated with the New York Post) in September of 2024, she said, “President Ronald Reagan warned that if fascism comes to America it will come as liberalism, and he was right: I have witnessed individual freedoms being trapped, silenced, censored. I’ve seen the terrifying modification of language that condemns me for saying that I can define a woman and can distinguish between biological sex and gender identity. I am a mother and refuse to call myself a “birthing person.” I’m pro-choice, but I do not support abortion till birth. What happened to “safe, legal and rare”? The Trump-led Republican Party has become the party of peace, while Democrats have marched toward endless war.”
Later in that same piece, she said, “As a Mexican-American, I have long embraced pathways to citizenship, but I reject the mockery of throwing open our southern border to all comers.”
In an interview with the OC Register; “Students and families should not be the first place government looks when there is a budget problem. I do not support treating tuition hikes like the easy answer. California families are already stretched too thin.”
On Twitter in 2024, Gloria posted, “So honored to speak at Coachella yesterday! @realDonaldTrump had the cojones to plant a giant MAGA flag in California! We are not a Blue state. We are not a Red state. We are THE GOLDEN State & Californians are voting @TeamTrump @LexitMovement1”
In June of 2025, she replied to a post about LA Sheriff Luna on Twitter, saying, “Sheriff Luna is a puppet of the ultra woke and FAILED Board of Supervisors who all suffer from intense TDS”
In September of 2024, she posted a reply to Leo Terrell on Twitter, saying, “With you as my inspiration, I proudly join President Trump @realDonaldTrump and MAGA nation to do my part to Make America Great Again! Gloria 2.0 @TrumpWarRoom” Terrell is a member of the Trump DOJ and a former Fox News contributor.
In July of 2022 (BEFORE she switched parties), Romero posted a reply on Twitter to Sen. Manchin and Sen. Schumer about not raising taxes, “And we’re not in a recession, women are birthing people, men get pregnant, the border is secure, blah blah blah @Sen_JoeManchin @ElAmerican_ @CARebelBase @KATYSaccitizen @Hamletgarcia17 @pnjaban @SoledadUrsua”
Endorsed by: Her endorsements are not listed on her website, but we found these:
CA GOP (She is running on the Steve Hilton ticket)
April's Common Sense Cali Voters (Sway voting group by April Silverman (Cali MAGA Barbie))
Elizabeth Barcohana's Lady with a Brain Voter Guide (Sway voting group by Elizabeth Barcohana)
Let’s Vote Differently LA! (Sway voting group by Nicole Eff)
Liberty For All (Sway voting group by Mark Ragains)
Reform California's Voting Group (Sway voting group by Reform California)
***A sway group is a group that is not explicitly affiliated with a political party. In practice, sway groups do still often align on one side of the political aisle more than another.
Candidate in the News:
Democrat-turned-Republican Gloria Romero announces run for lieutenant governor
Gloria Romero, California lieutenant governor candidate, 2026 primary election questionnaire
(Opinion Piece) Why a Former Democrat Stumped for Trump in Coachella
(Opinion Piece by Romero) I’m a true-blue Democrat — but I’ve joined the GOP and back Donald Trump
In their words: Fiona Ma v. Josh Fryday v. Michael Tubbs v. Gloria Romero. We asked. They answered.
Public Voting Record:
Romero was a state legislator in the 2000s, during which time she was involved in a number of pieces of LGBTQ+ related legislation.
Voted yes on California Domestic Partner Rights and Responsibilities Act (2003), a piece of legislation that granted domestic partnerships most of the same rights as married couples.
Co-authored AB 2208 (2004), which legally required insurance companies to extend all of the same privileges given to insured married couples to include couples in registered domestic partnerships.
Follow the Money: Campaign Finance Filings for this race aren’t out yet; however, we’ve found the following campaign contributions to other races she’s made.
$100 to No Recall, Parents Protecting our Kids Against the Recall of OUSD Boardmembers Ledesma and Miner
$100 to (Tim) Shaw for OC Board of Education 2024
$250 to Friends of Ken Williams OC Board of Education 2024
***Pride at the Pier note: All of these individuals are widely criticized by LGBTQ+ Advocacy groups in Orange County for their record of voting against the interests of LGBTQ+ students.
State Treasurer
The state treasurer acts as the state's chief banker, managing its investments, overseeing billions of dollars in public funds, and handling the sale of bonds to pay for big projects like schools and roads. By managing these resources, they can promote civil rights by investing in underserved communities and ensuring that state-funded housing and infrastructure projects are distributed fairly and equitably.
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*Information as of our June 2026 Primary Guide
Campaign Statement:
“Eleni Kounalakis | DEMOCRATIC
I'm a businesswoman, financial expert and daughter of Greek immigrants. I believe in the California dream and as Lieutenant Governor have worked hard supporting small business, education and opportunities for hard working families. I'm running for State Treasurer to be a disciplined, responsible manager of California's finances, focused on protecting working families, strengthening our economy, and making smart investments that reflect our values. I'm running for State Treasurer to: Build affordable housing using public finance. Fight Trump's attacks on our health care and immigrants. Protect the pensions of hard-working Californians. Invest in the financial future of children and families. I have the support of Governor Gavin Newsom, Senator Alex Padilla, Senator Adam Schiff and Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi. I also have the support and endorsement of over 450,000 California teachers. California's firefighters, first responders and health care workers also support my candidacy and I hope to have yours as well. As a businesswoman, I spent decades building housing communities, using infrastructure financing, and delivering results. As California's 50th Lieutenant Governor and a former Obama diplomat, I've brought real-world financial expertise to some of the state's toughest challenges. I've created clean-energy jobs, managed public lands, and voted to approve more than 60,000 new beds on college campuses to help lower costs for students and families. I'm a fierce fighter for democracy. I'm on the front lines against Donald Trump's attacks on immigrant communities and women's reproductive freedom—all while protecting our environment and California's core values. EleniForCA.com”
Email: info@eleniforca.com
Campaign Website: https://eleniforca.com/
Eleni’s website does not have her priorities, issues, etc listed, which is unusual for a campaign website. Normally we’d provide that information in this guide. However, her campaign website highlights a number of elements of her experience she finds important, including:
“Eleni joined her father in building one of California’s most respected housing development firms, AKT Development.”
“In 2010, she was appointed by President Obama as U.S. Ambassador to Hungary, where she worked to advance democracy and American values abroad.”
“In her roles as chair of the State Lands Commission and a voting member on the University of California Board of Regents and California State University Board of Trustees, she has helped oversee billions in public assets.”
“...approving the construction of over 60,000 beds on college campuses.”
Any Other Interesting Info:
As Lt. Governor in 2021, Kounalakis established the state’s Transgender Advisory Council, a first in the nation, “a council of transgender leaders to create a dialogue between state leaders and the transgender community in California”, with a goal of “bring(ing) attention to the issues faced by the transgender community by inviting stakeholders in advocacy, government, and different industry sectors to hear directly from the council.” Regarding the establishment of this council, she said, “Here in California, I’m proud we have enacted many protections for LGBTQ+ people, but we still have work to do, and that is especially true for issues facing our transgender and nonbinary family, friends, and neighbors (...) establishing this council gives transgender leaders the space to have an open dialogue with key stakeholders who may not have otherwise had the opportunity to hear directly from them. I hope bridging this gap will help to amplify important issues and bring more understanding of the community. I look forward to the opportunity to listen, to learn, and to help elevate the voices of the members.”
Social Media Links:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EleniKounalakis
Twitter: https://twitter.com/EleniForCA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eleniforca
On Instagram, she posted a selfie with Pete Buttigieg, with the caption, “It was great to support my friend @Pete.Buttigieg yesterday! I am grateful for the work he is doing to help build and invest in the new generation of politics and political leaders who will lead our country into this new era of democracy.”
She also shared her endorsement from Equality CA on Instagram, with the caption, “It is an honor to have earned the endorsement from @EQCA! Equality California is the largest statewide LGBTQ+ civil rights organization that fights to protect LGBTQ+ Californians at the local, state, and national levels, and I am proud to stand alongside them in the continued fight for equality.”
She shared an endorsement from Reproductive Freedom for All, too, with the caption, “We’re endorsing Eleni Kounalakis for California Treasurer! As Lieutenant Governor, @EleniForCa worked to safeguard and strengthen access to essential reproductive care. And as State Treasurer, she will continue to protect our fundamental freedoms.” To clarify, this post was made by RF4A, and Eleni is a collaborator on that post.
She also posted on Instagram a celebration of the democratic defeat of Hungary’s Viktor Orban, who is one of the biggest global leaders in the anti-LGBTQ movement, saying, “As the former U.S. Ambassador to Hungary, I witnessed firsthand the early rise of Viktor Orbán and the consolidation of power that followed. Yesterday, the Hungarian people made their voices heard—choosing a new path that puts democracy, accountability, and the future of their country first.”
You can read the 2024 statement on Transgender Day of Remembrance, issued by Kounalakis’ Transgender Advisory Council, here.
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
Equality California
Reproductive Freedom for All
NUHW Healthcare Union
California Environmental Voters
California Coastal Commission
West Stanislaus County Fire Protection District
Harvey Milk LGBTQ Democratic Club
Fresno State Cross Cultural Gender Center
Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California
SF Women's Political Committee
CA Dept of Corrections
California Volunteers
Second Lady Usha Vance
Stop AAPI Hate
Candidate’s Public Comments:
In an LA Times article reprinted by Yahoo, Kounalakis said her approach would be to 'lean in’ to clean investments. “But it has to be balanced with recognizing that the returns at CalPERS and CalSTRS are very important for the hard-earned pensions of those whose retirement is being managed (...) My top priorities would be to manage the state's finances with responsibility and experience,’ she said, ‘and to build more housing and the infrastructure to support it, to protect our pensions and manage our investment portfolio with transparency and accountability.”
Eleni ran for governor in 2023, but ended her campaign to redirect to the State Treasurer race. Of the decision to switch races, she said, “I am very happy because it is so closely aligned with my skill set (...) I think it's so important to have a state treasurer who has that kind of experience to manage our financial future responsibly (...) I have been using my international experience serving the state as our representative for international trade and investment, which has a very heavy economic development piece to it.”
When asked about her priorities, she said she’d lean into investments into clean energy, continuing, “My top priorities would be to manage the state's finances with responsibility and experience (...) and to build more housing and the infrastructure to support it, to protect our pensions and manage our investment portfolio with transparency and accountability.”
Speaking on AB 245, which required CA higher education institutions to allow trans students to change their names on their diplomas and records, which she co-sponsored, she said, “California is taking an important step towards protecting and supporting trans and gender nonconforming students in California’s public higher education institutions by ensuring that every student receives a diploma that accurately reflects their chosen name.”
Endorsed by: (See link for full list)
Kamala Harris
Hillary Clinton
Barbara Boxer (Fmr. CA Congresswoman)
Adam Schiff (CA Congressman)
Alex Padilla (CA Congressman)
Nancy Pelosi (CA Congresswoman)
Pete Buttigieg
Gavin Newsom
Fiona Ma (Current State Treasurer)
Malia Cohen (Current State Controller)
Rob Bonta (Current State Attorney General)
CA Labor Federation
Teamsters CA
California Federation of Teachers
California Teachers Association
California State Association of Electrical Workers
East Bay Stonewall Democratic Club
San Francisco Women’s Political Committee
Sierra Club
Reproductive Freedom for All
California YIMBY
California Environmental Voters
California Council for Affordable Housing
Candidate in the News:
Your guide to the California state treasurer race: Who will replace Fiona Ma?
Lt. Governor Kounalakis Establishes Transgender Advisory Council
Newsom Signs Bill To Ensure Trans, Nonbinary Students’ Diplomas Reflect Identities
(Right-leaning Opinion Piece) Another First from California: the Nation’s First Transgender Voting Place
SF leaders wear Pride on their sleeves at flag raising event
The California Lt. Gov who could soon end up in the U.S. Senate
(Endorsement from SF Chronicle) Eleni Kounalakis for California treasurer
Public Voting Record:
As Lt. Governor, Kounalakis co-sponsored AB 378, the Gender Equity in Leadership Act, which removes gendered language relating to the offices of the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of State, State Controller, Treasurer, Insurance Commissioner, and Board of Equalization. Source
As Lt. Governor, Kounalakis co-sponsored AB 245, which requires California's public colleges and universities to allow transgender and nonbinary students to update their academic records—including diplomas—with their affirmed names and correct gender markers, preventing them from being deadnamed. Source
Follow the Money: via the link
(*not available for CITY government positions)
https://www.transparencyusa.org/ca/candidate/eleni-kounalakis/
$11,571,047 Cash on Hand
$9,367,777 Total Contributions
$14,202,620 Total Expenditures
Top 10 contributors:
$572,141.68 Eleni Kounalakis
$310,615.48 Aggregated Unitemized Contributions
$53,800.00 Tina Thomas
$39,200.00 California Professional Firefighters Ballot Issues Committee
$39,200.00 California Teachers Association/association for Better Citizenship
$39,200.00 Professional Engineers in California Government Pecg PAC
$39,200.00 Ronald Conway
$38,800.00 Association of California School Administrators PAC
$37,800.00 Richard J Saker
$34,400.00 Raise the Wage California Sponsored by the California State Council of Service Employees and Its Affiliates
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*Information as of our June 2026 Primary Guide*
Campaign Statement:
“Jennifer Hawks | REPUBLICAN
I am not a career politician, and that perspective is exactly why I’m running for California State Treasurer. A Silicon Valley resident since 1983, I’ve watched California grow, innovate, and face increasingly complex financial challenges. I raised my family here, worked inside large organizations, and served on community and public boards where budgets had to balance and decisions carried real consequences. Those experiences taught me that good intentions are not enough. Sound financial management requires discipline, follow-through, and accountability. California’s fiscal challenges did not happen overnight. They are the result of years of decisions made without sufficient scrutiny or long-term discipline. I am detail-driven and persistent, and I believe the Treasurer has a responsibility to ask hard questions, follow the money, and provide clear answers to the public when something doesn’t add up. Honesty, integrity, and transparency are not slogans; they are essential duties of this office. The Treasurer’s Office should operate with rigorous oversight, measurable performance standards, and full transparency for taxpayers, local governments, and investors. As Treasurer, I will prioritize thorough audits, clear reporting, and practical financial discipline to strengthen California’s fiscal foundation. This office exists to safeguard public money, independent of political agendas. My focus will be on what best serves the people of California. Responsible stewardship, accountability, and long-term financial stability. Vote Jennifer Hawks www.hawksforus.com”
Email: info@hawksforus.com
Campaign Website: https://hawksforus.com/
Her campaign website has the following piece of Biblical scripture on it, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. - Joshua 1:9”. The book of Joshua is part of the Old Testament in the Bible covering the story of the Israelites’ conquest of the Promised Land, and the scripture she’s quoting appears to be the New International Version translation of the Bible.
Her website has a page labeled “The Problem”, which says the following; “Breaking: CAL DOGE Exposes $435 Billion in Fraud & Waste (...) $435 Billion Lost. Zero Accountability.
That's over $22,000 stolen from every California taxpayer. The Controller has missed federal audit deadlines three years running.”
Among other things listed on her campaign website highlighting ‘The Problem’ with the State Treasurer’s office, she also includes, “The Human Crisis”, which goes into detail about the homelessness crisis in CA, mostly referring to the unhoused population living rough on CA states. “Since 2018, California has spent more than $24 billion on homelessness programs. Over the same period, the unhoused population has grown to more than 180,000 people — the largest in the United States. The crisis didn't shrink. It accelerated.”
Pride at the Pier Note: Over 50% of the population of homeless trans people in the United States live in CA, largely contributed to by the massive refugee crisis of hundreds of thousands of trans people fleeing states that are hostile to trans people.
Any Other Interesting Info:
Hawks sat for an interview with former Republican Congressmember Matt Gaetz, who now has a show on OAN. As a reminder, Gaetz was pushed out of Congress largely as a response from even members within his own party after details of his sexual conduct with minors became public knowledge. Source
Hawks has never served in elected office before, something she feels makes her uniquely qualified for this seat, as she is outside of the political establishment.
Social Media Links:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/votehawks
Instagram: https://instagram.com/votehawks
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61585043011188
Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:
David Tangipa, CA Assemblymember and anti-trans activist
Rogan O’Handley, “DC_Draino”, America First Lawyer
California Republican Party
Gloria Romero, Republican Candidate for Lt. Governor
Michael Gates, fmr. HB City Attorney, fmr. Trump DOJ, Candidate for CA AG. Anti-LGBTQ+ activist.
Herb Morgan, Republican candidate for State Controller
CA Rifle & Pistol Association Political Action Committee
California Globe, Right Wing Biased news engine
Nick Shirley, Far-right influencer involved with Trump administration
James O'Keefe, founder of Project Veritas
Cam Higby, Far-right media figure
Reform California
Carl DeMaio, CA State Assemblymember and chair of Reform CA
Candidate’s Public Comments:
On instagram, “When i'm in office Fraudifornia will be a distant memory because we will track every dollar spent.”
On instagram, “Right now, we are living in a dark time, and you can see it running rampant on the streets of Los Angeles.”
When asked by the OC Register where she stands on the question of divesting CA state funds from Israel, she replied, “I favor smart investing, so Californians get the best rate of return possible for their money. So whatever is going to maximize our investment returns is what matters most. CalPERS and CalSTRS manage a $1 trillion portfolio combined. Those funds are invested in a wide variety of banks, bonds, and companies, based on what is going to profit Californians. The target is 7% to remain solvent. Between $1 and $2 billion is invested in banks, bonds and stocks linked to Israel. Some of those companies are well-known multinational corporations, like Caterpillar and Chevron. And the return on those for fiscal year ’24-’25 was 11.6% for CalPERS and 8.5% for CalSTRS, well above the target 7%. So 0.1-0.2% of the portfolio is putting $100 to $227 million into their trusts, helping cover unfunded liabilities and reducing the amount of taxpayer money the state must contribute in the future to keep the pension system solvent. That just makes financial sense; it’s smart investing.”
When asked how her background prepares her for this role, she answered, “I am not a career politician; I’m a retired businesswoman and mother. I know what it means to balance a budget for both a company and a household. I built my career on managing complex budgets and teams with care and precision. Career politicians treat our state’s funds like a blank check because they’ve never worked in the private sector, where you have to balance the books, meet payroll, ensure there’s a return on every dollar spent and hold vendors to account. As a businesswoman, I know how to cut unnecessary costs and deliver results. I will bring the discipline, transparency and tough love that I learned from years as a business owner to Sacramento.”
Endorsed by:
California Republican Assembly
California Rifle and Pistol Association
California Women's Leadership Association PAC (CWLA PAC)
Carl DeMaio
Reform California
American Independent Party Note: this is NOT the same thing as No Party Preference. The AI Party is an extreme far-right political party.
Santa Barbara County Republican Party
United Vietnamese American Community of Northern California
Candidate in the News:
“Jennifer Hawks, California Treasurer Candidate, 2026 primary election questionnaire”
Jennifer Hawks, California treasurer candidate, 2026 primary election questionnaire
In the six-way race to be California’s treasurer, it likely comes down to two Democrats
Public Voting Record:
None found, as Hawks has never served in an elected capacity before.
https://www.transparencyusa.org/ca/candidate/jennifer-hawks/
$38,436 Cash on Hand
$32,447 Total Contributions
$19,011 Total Expenditures
Top 10 Contributors:
$7,500.00, Joy Craft
$5,500.00, Carl DeMaio (Chair of Reform CA)
$5,000.00, Thomas Gutshall
$1,500.00, Robert Varich
$1,000.00, Anna Kramer
$1,000.00, Carol Ann Petty
$1,000.00, Cynthia Varich
$1,000.00, Dale Broome
$1,000.00, Debbie Brookfield
$1,000.00, Marya Keeth