2026

Below you will find every single race that can be found in La Habra, 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.

La Habra

  • La Habra At-Large City Council Candidate


    Candidate Statement:

    “JAMES "JIM" GOMEZ

    Businessman/Councilmember

    When I first ran for city council, it was because many of you believed our community was ready for change. You wanted business growth, community events and a stronger future. Over the years, I have worked hard to honor that trust and turn those goals into real progress.

    Today, I am standing before you again, not just because of what we have accomplished, but because you have asked me to continue this work. That not only means a lot to me, but what it could mean for our community.

    Together, we have made meaningful strides. We have expanded opportunities for local businesses, bringing in more places to shop. Places such as Costco, Walmart, Hobby Lobby and Trader Joe's are a few businesses that have strengthened our local economy while creating local jobs. We have prioritized open spaces that give families and neighbors places to gather and connect, especially with the recent development of Vin Scully Centennial Park. We have taken important steps toward building a safer community where people feel secure, making us one of the safest cities in Orange County.

    At the same time, we have invested in the rehabilitation of our streets, improving roads, building water pump stations, ensuring we have an adequate water supply and accessible sidewalks, ensuring safer travel for everyone in our community. I accomplished all this while maintaining a balanced budget each year.

    I was honored to be recognized as City Elected Leader of the Year by the Association of California Cities.

    These accomplishments did not happen overnight and they were not achieved alone. They are the result of listening to you, working alongside you and staying committed to what matters most for our City.

    But there is still more to do. On the heels of our Centennial comes new opportunities and new challenges, but I know that we can overcome them. I am ready to keep building on the progress we have made, to keep pushing for smart development, to protect what makes our city special and to ensure that every resident benefits from the work we are doing.

    I am proud of the progress that we have made together and am ready to keep moving our community forward. With your support, I will continue to work hard to deliver the results you deserve and build a future that reflects our potential as a city.

    I’m proudly endorsed by our police, firefighters, teachers and parents.”


    Email: 


    Campaign Website: 

    Priorities: 


    Any Other Interesting Info:

    • Mayor Pro Tem · at-large · first elected 2002 · current term 2022–2026 · next on the ballot 2026

    • Refers to himself (a lot) as “Mr. La Habra”

    • CityTalk with Mayor James Gomez

      • Description: In this edition of CityTalk with Government Affairs Director, Tim Shaw, we are pleased to speak to La Habra Mayor, James Gomez, on the following topics: The unique qualities of La Habra, Schools, Plans for a new City Hall, Street repavement program, New housing projects, Why you should bring your buyers to La Habra

      • Appointed Mayor in 2016, and was Mayor 3 times

      • Has been on city council since 2002 (as of this year, that is 24 years)

      • Claimed (in 2016) they had the most non-profits in OC

      • Invested in repaving all the streets

      • Very excited about new buildings in La Habra (housing projects)

    • Born and lived in La Habra his whole life


    Social Media Links: 


    Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:

    • OC Supervisor Doug Chaffee (Democrat, but also voted to ban the Pride Flag in 2023)

    • Michelle Bean (Endorsed by “Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs)

    • Theo Von (controversial comedian)

    • Kamala Harris (former Vice President of Joe Biden)

    • Young Kim (CA Congresswoman, Republican)

    • The Real Elvira (I just think this is kind of funny. I love Elvira)

    • Jose Medrano (Mayor of La Habra)

    • La Habra PD

    • Hillary Clinton 

    • He almost exclusively follows sports stuff, recipe/restaurant accounts, pretty ladies in OC/LA, and standard Christian accounts 


    Candidate’s Public Comments:

    • In a 20 year old article from the OC Register, early on in his career as a La Habra city councilmember, Gomez described feeling motivated in his younger years to create change in his community after his neighbor was shot and killed as a result of gang violence. “Gangs were running rapid in the city (...) So I started a neighborhood watch program with Dorothy Rush and started attending neighborhood and community meetings. (...) I want to help keep La Habra a wonderful place for my family and everybody’s family, and I want us to all be proud of our community.” source 


    Endorsed by: 


    Candidate in the News:

    Public Voting Record: 

    • 2026-06-01 - Receive and file the proposed Fiscal Year 2026-2027 budget presentation and direct staff to include funding for the Police Department drone first responder program


    Follow the Money: 

    The following are previous contributions and payments - Gomez has not yet filed his campaign finance documents for 2026. 

    • $154.32 - 03/05/2024

      • Payer: UNITE HERE Local 11 PAC

      • Filer: Paola H. Lima, Cenorino Gomez Sarabia, Gabriela Juarez, Luz Lopez and James Gil for Central Committee of Assembly District 68, 2024

      • $913.15 - 03/03/2024

      • $2,027.01 - 02/28/2024

      • $148.60 - 02/25/2024

      • $140.23 - 02/25/2024

      • $2,500.49 - 02/21/2024

      • $99.37 - 02/21/2024

      • $2,500.49 - 02/21/2024

      • $591.78 - 02/19/2024

      • $888.39 - 02/19/2024

      • $591.78 - 02/19/2024

      • $1,918.90 - 02/15/2024

      • $2,215.00 - 02/12/2024

      • $1,000.00 - 02/12/2024

    • $4,900.00 - 08/24/2022

      • Payer: La Habra Police Association PAC

      • Filer: La Habra Police Association PAC

      • “Committee to Elect James Gomez for Councilmember 2022”

      • Three filing IDs same date, same amount

    • $643.00 - 08/12/2022

      • Payer: Committee to Elect James Gomez Councilmember 2022

      • Filer: COPS Voter Guide, Inc.

      • $599.00 - 09/06/2018

    • $421.50 - 09/27/2022

    • $500.00 - 12/09/2021

    • $1,500.00 - 12/09/2021

    • $3,000.00 - 11/03/2021

      • Payer: Northgate Gonzalez Markets

      • Filer: Committee to Elect James Gomez for Councilmember 2022

    • $500.00 - 10/10/2021

      • Payer: Casa Adelita #3 (restaurant)

      • Filer: Committee to Elect James Gomez for Councilmember 2022

    • $2,500.00 - 10/01/2021

      • Payer: La Habra Westridge Partners LP (real estate and development entity associated with the La Habra Westridge Plaza commercial center)

      • Filer: Committee to Elect James Gomez for Councilmember 2022

    • $290.00 - 09/07/2018

    • $142.20 - 06/26/2018

    • $106.32 - 04/13/2018

    • $500.00 - 10/27/2015

    • $500.00 - 04/03/2014

      • Payer: CARE AMBULANCE SERVICE, INC

      • Filer: CARE AMBULANCE SERVICE, INC

      • “Committee to Re-Elect James Gomez”

    • $250.00 - 10/11/2010

      • Payer: ORANGE COUNTY COALITION OF POLICE & SHERIFFS POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE (OC COPS PAC)

      • Filer: ORANGE COUNTY COALITION OF POLICE & SHERIFFS POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE (OC COPS PAC)

      • “Committee to Re-elect James Gomez 2010”

  • La Habra At-Large City Council Candidate


    Candidate Statement:

    “JOSE MEDRANO AGE: 56 | Mayor City of La Habra

    My name is Jose Medrano, I currently serve as Mayor of La Habra. My wife and I have been fortunate enough to raise our daughters in our community and local schools. As a public safety advocate and law enforcement officer, I feel it is important to be engaged in our community and help keep it safe. As a Mexican Immigrant and U.S. Citizen, I find it important to include public service in my life and help those who seek the same opportunity. I have over 30 years of Law Enforcement experience. I am a retired Detective for the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office having investigated Human Trafficking, Juvenile crimes and other criminal investigations. I have a B.A. in Business Administration from CSUF. As a father I strongly believe in education. Two of my daughters are graduates of University of California schools and one attends USD as a student athlete.

    I have been committed to making local government more efficient, responsive and accountable to everyone.I continue to make Public Safety a priority through my in person “Crime Watch” meetings in various neighborhoods throughout the City of La Habra. Through my leadership on the council I continue to support the city’s fiscally responsible direction resulting in balanced budgets. The city has completed significant capital improvement projects and road improvements. My support of open spaces and the revitalization of parks continues with the recent opening of the Dog Park and other amenities at Centennial Park and improvements at other parks. As Mayor I continue to support our efforts to address traffic through signal synchronization on Imperial Highway, Lambert Road, Hacienda Blvd, Whittier Blvd and traffic calming measures in various neighborhoods. I have addressed the homeless issue in La

    Habra by supporting our efforts with our two homeless shelters in neighboring cities and staffing two homeless outreach liaisons. I continue to support our La Habra Businesses through my weekly Business of the Week promotion on social media. I am endorsed by the La Habra Police Association, LA County Firefighters IAFF 1014, Teachers and Community advocates in La Habra.”


    Email: 


    Campaign Website: We were not able to locate a campaign website for Jose.


    Any Other Interesting Info:

    • Mayor · at-large · first elected 2018 · current term 2022–2026 · next on the ballot 2026

    • Twitter bio: “Councilman for the great city of La Habra. Local Law Enforcement Officer. Proud Husband, Father & Mexican Immigrant.” 

    • Per an article with the OC Register in 2018, Medrano is former law enforcement, specifically as a senior investigator with the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office. Source 

    • Medrano endorsed Democratic Congresswoman Blanca Pacheco in her 2022 Congressional race, per her twitter account. 

    • His Mayor Facebook page promoted a Neighborhood Crime Watch meeting he hosted with La Habra neighbors on October 1, 2026. source

    • Candidate Statement of qualification 2022

    • City Council Bio

    • Jose Medrano Bio 2022

    • Jose Medrano City Council Bio 2026

      • “a founding member and Detective on the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Regional Human Trafficking Task Force”


    Social Media Links: 


    Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:

    • Instagram:

      • Following Mayor Valerie Amezcua (mayor of Santa Ana, who has received significant criticism for her ‘neutral’ response to ICE, her consistent support of law enforcement, and her behavior towards activists, among other things)

      • Following Spencer Pratt (TV personality running for Mayor of LA, asking for more funding to LAPD, and claiming  he will “utilize law enforcement to address LA's recent surge of dangerous street takeovers.” He has received endorsement from Trump)

      • Following AraceliUnfiltered (Araceli Martinez, Republican Party, running for election to the Senate to rep District 30 - want to cut “the regulations that drive up costs and drive businesses out of state”)

      • Follows Rep Linda Sanchez (Democratic congresswoman, has a KYR section on her site)

      • Follows Assemblymember Blanca Pacheco (Democratic Party - has a banner on top of her site page warning people there is Immigration enforcement in LA, and to know your rights)

      • Follows LA TACO

      • Follows Firing Line Show (Conservative interview show reboot, on PBS, hosted by Republican Margaret Hoover)

    • Twitter

      • LA County Sheriffs

      • OC Sheriffs

      • Gil Cisneros (Democratic Congressman local to La Habra)

      • Phillip Chen (Republican Congressman local to La Habra) 


    Candidate’s Public Comments:

    • On instagram, he made a post dated September 25, 2024; “As a Mexican Immigrant I am always proud of my heritage. This picture was taken in my hometown of Tecate, Mexico. in celebration of my “Tio Chendo’s” 92nd birthday (seated center) along with my brother & cousins who are successful doctors, accountants, police officers and veterinarians. My Tio Chendo is my mother’s brother and family patriarch. Happy Hispanic Heritage Month!” source

    • In a 2018 interview with the OC Register, he was asked about his opinions on rent control. He replied, “Rent control does not work well. Landlords are in the business of getting a return on their investment. Rent control causes property owners to defer repairs and revitalization. Better solution is for landlords and rent control advocates to collaborate in an effort to find affordable housing.” source

    • In the same interview, he was also asked about his opinions on updating marijuana policies in La Habra now that the substance has been legalized by voter decision. He replied, “As a law enforcement professional I am not in favor of legalizing marijuana. Federal law supersedes local and state laws as such marijuana is still illegal.” source


    Endorsed by: 

    The following endorsements were found on his Facebook page: 

    • ‘La Habra Community Icon’ Loretta Luna

    • Councilwoman Rose Espinoza

    • Councilman Daren Nigsarien

    • Councilman Del Lampkin

    • Mayor Pro Tem James Gomez

    • LA County Firefighters Local 1014

    • La Habra Police Association


    Candidate in the News:

    Public Voting Record: 


    Follow the Money: 

  • La Habra At-Large City Council Candidate


    Candidate Statement:

    “SUSAN PRITCHARD | Retired Teacher

    La Habra is my home. My husband and I bought our house 43 years ago and we never left! Fondly known as Dr.P., I taught at Washington Middle School in the La Habra City School District for nearly 33 years, teaching more than 7000 students. I hold a Bachelors, Masters, and Doctorate degree as well as several teaching credentials.

    Since retiring. I served as a Trustee on the La Habra City School District School Board and help La Habra non-profits. Serving both our residents and our local businesses gives me unique insights for prioritizing our La Habra’s needs.

    Unfortunately, we have seen our City Council campaign on pledges of “no new taxes” only to have them push for higher sales taxes. Our City Council failed to get a housing element approved in a timely manner, opening the door to “builder’s remedy” housing development the city can’t stop.

    Incredibly, the City Council sent our tax dollars to a Chamber of Commerce in Buena Park while refusing to support our La Habra Chamber of Commerce.

    I will restore trust in our City Council by supporting term limits, keeping my promises, and putting La Habra first. I promise all my Council stipends will go to La Habra non-profits!

    I would be honored to have your vote. www.electpritchard.com

    www.DrPstem.com”


    Email: DrP4citycouncil@gmail.com  


    Campaign Website: https://electpritchard.com/ 

    Susan’s website leads with a Comic Sans font “Susan Pritchard - Candidate for City Council”. She does also have a tab where viewers can read the website in Spanish. 

    • “Supports Public Safety”

    • “Our tax dollars, however, have been unnecessarily spent outside our city. Our residents deserve affordability, accountability, and local fiscal support.  Our residents’ hard-earned tax dollars should never be spent outside of La Habra, unnecessarily.”

    • “I will not accept the council stipend for personal use. I will donate any La Habra City Council stipend to our local non-profits.”

    Priorities: 

    • Supports Public Safety

    • Supports Term Limits

    • For Council Members

    • Communication with Honesty & Transparency

    • Fiscal Watchdog Making Sure La Habra is First

      • Fiscal responsibility, and accountability for those who fail

    • Governing with fact based, data driven policy decisions

    • Minimize potential influences from special interests

    • Welcome new voices and fresh ideas to our city government

    • Align La Habra with the majority of the 34 Orange County cities

      • No info on what she means by this


    Any Other Interesting Info:

    • In 2022, Pritchard signed the Moms For Liberty ‘Parent’s Pledge’ as both a Trustee for the LHCSD School Board and a candidate for La Habra City Council. That pledge reads as follows, “I pledge to honor the fundamental rights of parents including, but not limited to the right to direct the education, medical care, and moral upbringing of their children. I pledge to advance policies that strengthen parental involvement and decision-making, increase transparency, defend against government overreach, and secure parental rights at all levels of government.”  source 

      • This pledge was also signed by Sonja Shaw in 2022. No other Orange County candidate signed the pledge in 2022. Source

    • Pritchard advertised a “Moms For Liberty” endorsement in her 2024 campaign materials. 

    • She served in the La Habra City School District from 2020-2024.

    • She received Congressional Recognition for Woman’s History Month of 2022 by “Honorable” Congresswoman Young Kim.

    • Author of Watch Out for the Water Guardians in the December 2018 issue of California Educator

    • Wrote a kids book called “Sitka Sue's Freedom Wish For America ... The Country That Almost Wasn't!”, among others (insta for her Sitka Sue book series)

      • One of the books in the Sitka Sue series leans heavily on Susan’s real-world experience of getting kicked off of a Southwest Airlines flight. source

    • Worked as a teacher and an administrator in private Catholic schools

    • Appointed and served as a member of the California Teachers Advisory Council (Cal TAC) from 2007 - 2011 source

    • Earned Bachelor of Arts from the University of California, Irvine

    • Professional credentials: Master’s in Administrative Leadership from California State University, Fullerton and a doctorate in research and higher education from Claremont Graduate School. National Board Certification in Early Adolescence Science

    • Recognition as one of the OC Register’s Classroom Heroes of 2013 and one of the OC Register’s 100 Most Influential People of 2015

    • Hughes Excellence in Science and Math Education, Project Tomorrow’s Vision for Excellence Award, Top-Ten National semi-finalist for the NSTA Shell outstanding Science Educator Award and as the 2016 STEM Teacher of the Year Award presented by Honorable State Senator Ling Ling Chang.

    • Co-author of “Project CONNECT-Connecting Middle Schools, High Schools, and University Students Through Technology” in the 1998 edition of The Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers: 20th Annual National Technical and Career Conference in Orlando, Florida; and author of Visit to China in News Links, (International School Services) , January of 1988 Vol. VII issue.

    • Contributing author for the CCS-California Classroom Science Journal of the California Science Teachers Association from 2001 through 2011

    • Contributing editor for the Hughes K-12 Education’s Science Matters/Math Counts publications from 1995 through 1997

    • Contributed reviews for the NSTA, for the Teacher Institute at the Exploratorium in San Francisco and for the Society of Vertebrate Paleontology and the Paleontological Society

    • 2022 Candidate Statement


    Social Media Links: 


    Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:


    Candidate’s Public Comments:


    Endorsed by: 

    • State Assemblyman Phillip Chen

    • Senator Robert S. Huff (retired)

    • Trustee Tim Shaw, Orange County Board of Education (OC Board Supervisors, conservative)

    • OCGOP : Republican Party of Orange County

    • Bertha Manzanares (running for School Board, conservative)

    • Brett R. Barbre, Director (Yorba Linda Water District)

    • Daniel Ferons,  Director at Irvine Ranch Water District.

    • Jan Ferons, Creative Outdoor Enthusiast

    • Council Member Rhonda Shader, City of Placentia

    • Sandi Baltes, Trustee, Retired, La Habra City School District Board

    • Vickie Talley, Executive Director MHET

    • William M. Pritchard, O.D.

    • Karen Shaw (Governing Board Member, Lowell Joint School District)

    • Carl DeMaio, Chairman, Reform California (far-right)


    Candidate in the News:

    Public Voting Record: 

    • Not Found


    Follow the Money: 

    • $500 - 06/20/2026

      • Payer: William Pritchard, La Habra, CA 90631

      • Payee: Susan "Dr. P." Pritchard for La Habra City Council 2026

      • “Revamp and update campaign website. Twenty hours of work.”

    • $250 - 12/20/2024

      • Payer: Susan "Dr. P." Pritchard for La Habra City Council 2024

      • Payee: N.W.O.C.R.A. (Northwest Orange County Republican Assembly)

    • $150 - 10/11/2024

      • Payer: William Pritchard

      • Payee: Susan "Dr. P." Pritchard for La Habra City Council 2024

      • “Tech Support”

    • $750.00 - 10/04/2024

      • Payer: MHET PAC Irvine (Manufactured Housing Educational Trust Political Action Committee)

      • Payee: Susan "Dr. P." Pritchard for La Habra City Council 2024

    • $500 - 10/04/2024

      • Payer: AAOC PAC (Apartment Association of OC)

        • AAOC provides its members with professional education and training, legislative advocacy and representation, resident screening services, operational assistance, networking and business development opportunities, and other resources that will help them maximize their success as members of the rental-housing industry 

      • Payee: Susan "Dr. P." Pritchard for La Habra City Council 2024

    • $100.00 - 10/02/2024

      • Payer: Rhonda Schader (Republican State Senate candidate)

      • Payee: Susan "Dr. P." Pritchard for La Habra City Council 2024

    • $200.00 - 10/02/2024

      • Payer: Pam Hymel (Chief Medical Officer for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts)

      • Payee: Susan "Dr. P." Pritchard for La Habra City Council 2024

    • $20 - 09/30/2024

    • $500.00 - 09/14/2024

      • Payer: Gary Pritchard

      • Filer: Orange County Taxpayers for Great Public Schools

        • Voice of OC Article on this group “The largest single donor was the statewide Charter Schools Political Action Committee, which spent over $320,000 across the five board members’ campaigns from 2022 to the present. In addition to their direct spending, they also funded a separate committee dubbed Orange County Advocates for Great Public Schools, which donated an additional $50,000. Orange County’s Lincoln Club, one of the biggest conservative fundraising groups locally, also spent $130,000 on the same slate of candidates

    • $1,000.00 - 09/05/2024

      • Payer: Howard F Ahmanson/Fieldstead & Company (an American Evangelical philanthropist. He is the son of Howard F. Ahmanson Sr., the founder of Home Savings Bank)

      • Filer: Susan "Dr. P." Pritchard for La Habra City Council 2024

    • $1,196.75 - 05/10/2024

      • Susan "Dr. P" Pritchard for La Habra City Council 2024

      • Payee: La Habra Collaborative (consists of groups and individuals from nonprofits, faith-based groups, or individuals ready to do good work)

  • La Habra At-Large City Council Candidate


    Candidate Statement:

    “MILES C. MATIAS | AGE: 33 | IT Analyst/Instructor

    I am a husband, father, educator, and information technology professional who believes public service should begin with giving, not taking. My family and I proudly call La Habra home, and I am running for City Council to bring practical experience, fresh ideas, and accountable leadership to City Hall.

    I support reasonable term limits because elected office should be temporary public service, not a lifelong career. New voices and fair opportunities to serve strengthen local government. I will advocate for a meaningful term-limits measure.

    If elected, I will not personally keep City Council compensation. I am running because I love this community and believe public service should be rooted in sacrifice, integrity, and commitment rather than personal gain.

    I hold bachelor's and master's degrees in information technology and management, teach college technology courses, and have experience in private industry, state government, healthcare, cybersecurity, and public service. I will focus on fiscal responsibility, public safety, reliable infrastructure, transparent government, strong local businesses, quality parks, support for families, and responsive city services.

    I would be honored to earn your trust and respectfully ask for your vote.

    www.milesmatias.com”


    Email: 


    Campaign Website:  https://milesmatias.com/
    Quotes featured: 

    • “How can I begin my service to La Habra by taking from it? My service is offered with love for this city and respect for the people who live here.”

    • My approach is fiscally conservative, transparent, and resident-first—focused on making La Habra safer, stronger, and more prosperous

    • Public safety and supporting our police are deeply important to me. I want City Government focused on protecting residents, respecting taxpayers, maintaining essential services, and making careful decisions that strengthen La Habra for the long term.

    • I will not seek this office to enrich myself. I intend to return my City Council compensation to the City’s General Fund, subject to all applicable laws and procedures.

    • Miles intends to return his City Council compensation to La Habra’s General Fund, subject to legal, tax, payroll, and City procedures. The final mechanism will be reviewed before implementation.

    Priorities: 

    • Prioritize roads, infrastructure, parks, and dependable services residents use every day

    • Promote a city that is welcoming, predictable, and responsive to local entrepreneurs and employers.

    • Support reasonable term limits so public office remains a temporary opportunity to serve—not a permanent position.

    • Support our police, safe neighborhoods, emergency readiness, and responsive public-safety services.

    • Scrutinize spending, protect taxpayers, and demand transparent budgets with measurable results.


    Any Other Interesting Info:

    • Employment:

      • Former G.s.a at Knott's Berry Farm

      • Former Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

      • Former Patient Care Technician

      • Former Associate at World Financial Group (WFG) & Evolve IP

      • CEO at CEO of Miles Matias Financial Consulting LLC

      • Adjunct Professor at CIAT

      • Former Information Technology Specialist at California Correctional Health Care Services (health care in all adult prisons operated by the California Department of Corrections)

    • Follows MANY La Habra Calvary Church pages across multiple social media platforms, they had a "Voices For Truth” night at Calvary La Habra (on S. Euclid) on Aug. 06, 2026.

      • His statement on the social media post flyer was “It’s time for servant leadership that is rooted in faith, family and community. Miles Matias believes public office is a calling to serve, not a path to personal gain. Come hear his vision for a safer, stronger, and more transparent La Habra built on integrity, accountability, and common sense.” 

      • He shared the night and flyer space with Tim Shaw (OC Board Supervisors) and Bertha Manzanares (School Board) who are both conservatives.

        • Bertha’s quote “Bertha is standing up for safer schools, academic excellence, parental rights, and the innocence of every child.”

        • Tim’s quote “With a proven record of conservative leadership … committed to protecting taxpayers, supporting law enforcement, improving public safety…”

      • Miles Matias Financial Consulting LLC (personal business)


    Social Media Links: 


    Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:

    • Facebook:

      • Fullerton Transparency (news)

      • Republican Women of La Habra (FB community page)

      • Breitbart (Right-wing media/news site)

      • Russell Brand (controversial actor, accused of sexual assault)

      • Man Up God's Way (Ministry teaching men to become godly in an ungodly world)

      • Man Enough (podcast for undefining traditional roles and traits of masculinity)

      • Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (seeks to equip Christians to provide biblical solutions to the problems people face)

      • Mark Zuckerberg (Founder and CEO of META)

      • Fight the New Drug (Educating on the harmful effects of pornography using only science, facts, and personal accounts)

    • Linkedin:

      • Mark Cuban (famous billionaire and TV personality)

      • Republican Party of OC

      • ICEYE US (equip U.S. government agencies, defense contractors, and commercial enterprises with access to…persistent monitoring. Leveraging the world’s largest constellation of…(SAR) satellites)

    • Instagram

      • Ryley Niemi (far-right Gen Z influencer in SoCal - Pride at the Pier first discovered him when he attended an Irvine USD meeting in 2023 posing as a recent graduate of the district asking the board to ban Pride flags, despite actually being a graduate of, and still living in, Temecula Valley USD). 

      • Live Action (“A Global Human Rights Movement dedicated to ending abortion and building a culture of life”) 

      • Calvary Chapel La Habra


    Candidate’s Public Comments:

    “The committee held very thorough interviews to make sure all of us being endorsed will NEVER RAISE TAXES on our residents. 

    You have my promise and commitment. 

    I WILL NEVER VOTE FOR ANY TAX INCREASE. 

    I WILL NEVER TAKE THE CITY STIPEND OR REGIONAL BOARD PAY. 

    Anything I receive from the city will be donated back to the city.

    Shame on those taking from our beautiful city. 

    Time and time again our council has ran on never raising taxes, yet they do it every chance they get. 

    Deep cuts must be made. 

    TERM LIMITS MUST BE ESTABLISHED!!!

    I hope to earn your vote and trust this November. 

    I love you La Habra!”


    Endorsed by: 

    • None found on candidate website as of 10/1/2026


    Candidate in the News:

    • None found as of 10/1/26


    Public Voting Record: 

    • Candidate has no previous record of holding public office


    Follow the Money:

    • Candidate reported no contributions to campaign from 1/1/26 to 10/8/26

City Council Race

La Habra City School District

  • Coming Soon!

  • Coming Soon!

Fullerton School District

  • Coming Soon!

  • Coming Soon!

  • Fullerton Joint USD School Board Area 1 Candidate


    Candidate Statement:

     “MATTHEW MATIAS AGE: 33 | Financial Planning Consultant

    I was raised in Orange County from age three and I'm proudly raising my family in La Habra. As a husband, father, and financial planning consultant, I believe every student deserves an education that builds knowledge, confidence, character, and practical skills for adulthood.

    I work in wealth management, helping individuals and families make informed decisions about financial planning, retirement, investments, and long-term goals. I hold two associate degrees

    from Rio Hondo College and am completing a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration at the University of Arizona in August 2026.

    My experience in finance, real estate, housing, healthcare, compliance, customer service, and small business has taught me to listen carefully, solve problems thoughtfully, manage resources

    responsibly, and remain accountable for results.

    I believe our schools should provide strong academics, safe and supportive learning environments, financial literacy, critical thinking, and meaningful pathways to college, career

    technical education, skilled trades, military service, business, and entrepreneurship.

    As your trustee, I will listen to parents, students, educators, and community members while keeping student achievement, fiscal responsibility, and transparency at the center of every decision. It would be an honor to serve Trustee Area 1 and help prepare every student for a successful, independent future.”


    Email: None Found


    Campaign Website: https://matiasforfjuhsd.com/

    His page is emblazoned with this quote from him, “I believe every student deserves an education that builds knowledge, confidence, character, and practical skills for adulthood.”

    He also has a section that says, “A board member should bring people together around what students need.” “Listen before deciding. Explain the why behind the work. Measure progress and stay accountable.”

    Priorities: 

    • Strong Academics

    • Safe, Supportive Schools

    • Financial Literacy

    • Real Pathways After Graduation

    • Transparency and Fiscal Responsibility


    Any Other Interesting Info:

    • Some of the designs on his campaign website and social media accounts appear to be created using AI. 

    • Matias has worked for Fidelity Investments for the last four and half years, and his Linkedin references his experience as a Real Estate Agent with All Nations Realty between 2017 and 2025. Source

    • He is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from University of Arizona. Source

    • He has listed an Associates in Social Sciences from Rio Hondo College, with attendance at Rio Hondo between 2012 and 2021. Source

    • Matias has a defunct Linkedin where he states that he was, at some point, pursuing a nursing degree from Rio Hondo. source 

    • Matias’ profile on Rocket Reach does describe him as having a Certified Nursing Assistant certificate, although we were not able to verify that certificate anywhere else. source 


    Social Media Links: 

    The profile picture for his campaign Facebook account is marked by Meta as being “AI Content”. 

    His personal instagram is private, but does have the following biography; “Christian/ Conservative/ Ecom/ Credit/ Finance/ Real Estate/ Entrepreneur/ Business Mindset/ Prounouns[sic]: Handsome/AF /@mattydazaddy/ @ujdcrimecam (crime videos)”

    He runs a small ‘true crime’ instagram account using released Axon police body cam and squad car camera footage. The mixture of posts on this account, which has been around since early Summer 2026, run the gamut in regards to perspectives - one or two videos showing police misconduct with “civil rights” hashtags, some videos presented without opinion, and some where the captions are supportive of what could be perceived as police brutality.


    Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:


    Candidate’s Public Comments:

    None Found


    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)



    Candidate in the News:

    None Found

    Public Voting Record:

    None Found


    Follow the Money: 


    • Matias contributed $100 to the CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS ISSUES MOBILIZATION PAC in 2018. source

  • Fullerton Joint USD School Board Area 1 Candidate


    Candidate Statement:

    “REGINA CUADRA | Parent/Teacher

    As an Elementary Special Education teacher in La Habra, a longtime PTA leader, and most importantly, a parent of children who have spent their entire educational journey in our public schools, I am deeply rooted in this district. I share similar hopes, concerns, and aspirations as many parents in our community and will bring this unique blend of professional expertise and personal investment to the board.

    Our schools deserve leadership that understands the daily realities of our district from every angle: in the classroom, at the PTA meeting, and around the family dinner table.

    As a teacher, I work daily to ensure all students receive the tailored support, dignity, and high-quality education they deserve. My commitment to our schools led me to serve in the PTA, where I steered successful grant-writing initiatives that brought vital new funding and resources to our students.

    I know what makes our schools great, and where we can improve because I live it every day as both an educator and a parent. I earned my BA, MA and credential at California State University, Fullerton. I respectfully ask for your support to bring a practical, compassionate, and deeply invested voice to our School Board.”


    Email: 


    Campaign Website: https://cuadrafjuhsd.com/ 

    Her website opens with the description of her, “A practical, compassionate, and deeply invested voice.”

    Priorities: 

    • Listen to parents and the community. As a parent myself and long time resident of La Habra, I want to represent you.

    • Advocate for all students by leveraging my experience as a special education teacher and as an award winning PTA leader.

    • Support high quality learning opportunities including in Career and Technical Education and improvements in school safety.


    Any Other Interesting Info:

    • Regina is currently attending Cal State Fullerton and is pursuing her Special Education teaching credential. 

    • This isn’t her first campaign - she also ran for school board in 2018, and her campaign that year was supported by the Democrats of North Orange County. source


    Social Media Links: 

    She posted a resource on her Facebook on May 24, captioned “For teachers effected by the mandatory evacuation in GG. CTA has grants to support temporary displacement. (link)”. Source


    Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:

    Candidate’s instagram is private. These are the follows from her campaign Facebook. 


    Candidate’s Public Comments: 

    • Candidate answered the OC Register Candidate Questionnaire. Some of the questions and responses are as follows. 

      • 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: “Artificial intelligence is a powerful tool that can be safe and beneficial when guided by clear boundaries, digital literacy, and strong data privacy protections.

    AI should be expanded to enhance personalized learning and assist teachers. It can offer customized tutoring, adaptive skill-building, and immediate feedback for students. For educators, AI can streamline administrative tasks, allowing teachers to spend more direct, meaningful time interacting with students.

    However, AI must be strictly limited when it threatens academic integrity, critical thinking, or student privacy. It should never replace original writing, research, or foundational problem-solving skills, nor should student personal data ever be exposed to unvetted software. AI must remain an aid to learning, not a shortcut around it.

    As a teacher and trustee, I will advocate for clear districtwide policy guidelines that train educators on ethical AI integration, educate students on responsible use, and protect student data while preparing our high schoolers for a technology-driven workforce.”

    • 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: “Schools engage students in civil discourse by embedding media literacy, structured debate, and collaborative problem-solving into everyday learning. To navigate a polarized world, high school students must learn how to analyze sources, listen actively, and articulate opposing viewpoints respectfully.

    I would like FJUHSD to tackle this by expanding structured speech, debate, and civic education frameworks across all campuses. Rather than shying away from complex topics, we should equip teachers with professional development to facilitate balanced, respectful classroom discussions. Creating peer-led forums and advisory councils will also give students real-world practice in active listening and diplomacy.

    As a former PTA council president, I have brought diverse communities together around shared goals. Civil discourse starts at the leadership level. The school board must model civil, constructive dialogue in public meetings, showing students that passionate advocacy and mutual respect can peacefully coexist.”

    • At a candidate Forum hosted by the League of Women Voters of North Orange County, Regina said the following:

      • Regarding her thoughts on charter schools and vouchers; “I support public education, and I believe that taxpayer dollars belong in traditional public schools. Those funds are held to strict public oversight and democratically elected school board governance, and come with an obligation to accept and support every single student. You don’t get to take a test and then be told there’s a wait list because you don’t meet their standards to attend. Additionally, private schools are not bound by federal IDEA mandates. They do not honor individualized education programs, and they can turn away high-need students. When funding leaves public schools, the fixed overhead costs remain, leaving traditional schools with fewer resources to serve the students with the greatest needs. So I support our public education. Thank you.”

      • When asked how she’d support mixed-status immigrant families, she said, “For those families, it’s definitely a scary situation. What we’re going through right now is unprecedented. There are families who don’t feel safe letting their high schoolers ride their bikes in the neighborhood, for fear that ICE is going to come and pick them up. With my privilege, that’s not something I know firsthand, but I’m very much aware of it in the neighborhood and for our students, staff and families. The best we can do is be present, communicate with them, show them that we support them, and provide safe spaces where they know they are safe coming to school. Thank you.”

      • When asked how she would support students with special needs, she answered, “To support students with special needs, I would ensure that there is enough support staff and that teachers have proper training. With any student with an individualized education program, you want to make sure that you’re in compliance with their needs, that the services are things they actually need, and that their accommodations are up to date. So I would work with the teams on the school sites, and I would listen to families, the community, our educators and our support staff in order to support all students. Thank you.”


    Endorsed by: 

    • Supporters of Public Education source

    • Fullerton Secondary Teachers Organization

    • La Habra Mayor Jose Medrano

    • LHCSD Board President Justin Rodgers

    • LHCSD Trustee and Sonora parent Adam Rogers

    • LHCSD Trustee Emily Pruitt

    • Orange County Democrats


    Candidate in the News: 

    Public Voting Record: None Found, Candidate has not held public office before


    Follow the Money:

    • $28,000 from the Fullerton Secondary Teachers Organization PAC

  • Fullerton Joint USD School Board Area 5 Candidate


    Candidate Statement:

    “MARILYN BUCHI | Governing Board Member

    As a District leader, I have consistently championed a place where every student is important -with a choice among schools and programs, an education relevant to the future, and a safe and supportive environment.

    My experience on the board as a strong, ethical and fiscally responsible leader has equipped me to protect the extraordinary quality of our schools.

    Students in the Fullerton Joint Union High School District are attending, graduating and excelling in record numbers as they prepare for transition to college and career.

    Our district, with the financial support of our communities, has completed such major improvements as science labs, theaters and gyms. Our teachers, support staff and leadership personnel are among the best.

    My experience at the state level broadens my knowledge and ultimately helps to improve our award-winning schools. I serve on the policy-making body and as a past president of a statewide educational organization (CSBA) dedicated to sound governance standards for school board members.

    As a long-time resident of the community, parent of district graduates, PTA leader and community volunteer, I am committed to making sure that our schools deliver the exceptional education that our community demands.

    Let's Continue the Excellence!”


    Email: pvmar@aol.com 


    Campaign Website: Buchi does not appear to have a campaign website.


    Any Other Interesting Info:


    Social Media Links: 


    Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:


    Candidate’s Public Comments:

    • At a candidate Forum hosted by the League of Women Voters of North Orange County, Marilyn said the following:

      • Regarding her thoughts on charter schools and vouchers; “Years ago, I think it was Proposition 187, I was one of the people in Orange County who fought against that. That was where they were going to offer vouchers to private schools as well as public schools. So I think my track record is against vouchers. I believe in public education. That’s where the public money should go.

    In terms of charter schools, charter schools don’t belong in the Fullerton Joint Union High School District. There is nothing a charter school can do for this district that we don’t already do. Years ago, a charter school representative, one of those statewide charter reps, came and met with the superintendent. The superintendent listened to him politely and showed him the door.

    On another occasion, someone I know who was affiliated with a charter school wanted to talk to me. I said, “Well, sure, I’ll talk.” And she said, “Well, we do this, we do this, we do this.” I said, “Yeah, we do all of those too. So we’re really not interested.” So in terms of both, not a fan. Thank you.”

    • When asked how she’d support mixed-status immigrant families, she said, “I would say that our campuses are safe. I don’t think this has been a big issue in the Fullerton Joint Union High School District, and I think that’s because we accept every student as they are. We love them all. Perhaps it’s an issue out in the community, but I really don’t get much input from campus leadership that this is a big issue.”

    • When asked how she would support students with special needs, she answered, “The Fullerton Joint Union High School District has an amazing program to serve every student in our district, including special needs students. I’m thinking in particular of one program that just touches my heart. Students with special needs can remain part of the district until they’re 22 years old, so we have a program for adult students. One of the favorite programs is at La Sierra High School. They call it Cafe DDT, and the students learn to be baristas. They’re trained for jobs. They’re trained in how to get along in society and how to live independently. At the end of the year, they have a talent show, and the students in that adult program are amazingly talented. They’re on the stage performing better than any of us in this room would be able to do.”

    • Marilyn responded to the OC Register’s Candidate Questionnaire. Some of the questions and responses are as follows. 

    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: “At one of the high school graduations, I spoke of AI, a tool that is everywhere. Everyone may be using it, and everyone is trying to regulate it. It can solve problems and do many other things, but real intelligence understands people. I suggested that the students be smart, be kind, be curious and be human. Humanity is our greatest strength. Our teachers are mostly requiring that writing be done in the classroom. They want to see our students’ intelligence. 

    Students must be protected and must take personal responsibility with the 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: “FJUHSD has an adopted statement of moral and civic values. Embedded in this document are the elements to support civil discourse.

    • Civic duty: Demonstrates a commitment to the public good, works for the community and cooperates with others, respects and participates in the democratic process, observes all laws and rules, and resolves conflicts peacefully.

    • Compassion and empathy: Demonstrates caring, concern, and sensitivity; exhibits tolerance; treats others politely, mercifully, and with respect and dignity; and renders service when needed.

    • Honesty: Tells the truth, does not cheat, intentionally mislead, or steal; possesses the courage to behave and conduct interactions with integrity; exhibits consistency between words and actions; behaves in a fair and straightforward manner; and conscientiously pursues and scrutinizes evidence that supports the truth.

    • Perseverance: Exhibits patience and hard work in achieving goals; works, learns, and pursues constructive goals, even in the face of adversity.

    • Respect: Treats all people equitably, justly, and fairly; affirms the worth of self, others’ property, and the environment through attitudes and actions.

    • Responsibility: Accepts the necessity of being accountable and the consequences of individual actions, reactions, and decisions; honors commitments; demonstrates an active commitment to the welfare of self and others.”


    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)


    Candidate in the News:

    Public Voting Record: While FJUSD does follow state policies on LGBTQ and immigration issues, we couldn’t find any articles regarding Buchi’s votes on any of the times these issues may have come up on meeting agendas, nor about anything else that the news might have covered. 


    Follow the Money:  No contributions this cycle.

  • Fullerton Joint USD School Board Area 5 Candidate


    Candidate Statement: 

    “AMY DUDICH | AGE: 48 | Operations Manager/Parent

    As a South Korean immigrant adopted at eight months old, I came to America to live the American dream. That dream has always been to help others. In earning a Human Services degree from Cal State Fullerton I strengthened my commitment to serving others in our

    community.

    Now is the time to pass the baton of leadership in Area 5.

    Being a connected parent and volunteer, I listen to families and am committed to ensuring our students’ needs are met.

    As a mother of two Fullerton public school students, PTA leader, and 15-year resident, I am deeply committed to our schools and community and understand the needs of today’s students and families.

    Through serving on School Site Council, I have worked alongside students, teachers, and families. As a trustee, I will support teachers, expand student opportunities by preparing them for college or the workforce, ensure our schools remain safe, and advocate for access to the mental health resources students need to thrive.

    Serving my community is both a privilege and a responsibility. I ask for your vote and support as we unite to build a stronger FJUHSD - one where every student has the opportunity to succeed and reach their full potential.

    www.amydudich.com”


    Email: None Found


    Campaign Website: https://www.amydudich.com/

    Priorities: 

    • Student Success

    • Strong Schools

    • Community Partnerships

    • Fiscal Responsibility


    Any Other Interesting Info:

    •  She has served as the Chairperson of the School Site Council for Hermosa Elementary in FSD.  source source

    • She served as the treasurer for the Hermosa Elementary PTA. source

    • She is a graduate of Cal State Fullerton, with a Bachelor’s in Human Services, according to her campaign website.

    • Dudich has a 27-year career as the Operations Manager for Pivotal Commercial Flooring. Their “About Us” page describes her as such, “Her commitment, attention to detail, and supportive presence have made her an essential contributor to our success and company culture.” source


    Social Media Links: 


    Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:

    On July 25th, she posted on her campaign instagram a set of photos from a volunteering event where she worked with Trustees Hanchett and Estrella to help local families apply for their passports, with the OC Clerk-Recorder’s Office. source


    Candidate’s Public Comments: 

    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: “Artificial intelligence can be a safe and valuable educational tool when used thoughtfully, transparently, and with clearly defined safeguards. I believe our students need to learn both the benefits as well as the pitfalls of AI since it will be part of their everyday lives going forward. It’s imperative that schools teach students how to use AI responsibly and understand when human judgment is essential for accuracy.

    AI can be expanded when it enhances learning rather than replaces it—for example, providing personalized practice, supporting students with different learning needs, helping teachers develop instructional resources, and giving students opportunities to learn about emerging technology and responsible digital citizenship.

    Having said that, AI should have clearly defined limits and not be used as a substitute for learning, critical thinking, writing, or completing assignments independently. Schools need to establish clear expectations around academic integrity and appropriate use by grade level. Student privacy and data security must also be priorities.

    As a trustee, I would support responsible AI policies developed in partnership with educators, students, families, and technology experts. Our goal should not be to fear AI or embrace it blindly, but to prepare students to use it safely, ethically, and effectively.”

    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: “Schools have an important role in preparing students to assimilate into a diverse democracy, full of varied opinions and beliefs. Civil discourse, by definition, means engaging in dialogue to find common ground and solve shared or in-common problems. I believe there is an enormous opportunity in all schools to get “back to basics” in regard to communicating effectively both in person and digitally.

    I would like to see our district strengthen opportunities for students to practice these skills through planned classroom discussions, student leadership, debate, civic education, and community engagement.

    Teachers should have appropriate training and support to facilitate challenging conversations while maintaining a respectful and inclusive classroom environment.

    Students should learn how to distinguish reliable information from misinformation, understand the difference between fact and opinion, and engage with perspectives different from their own.

    As a trustee, I would take the lead in the district to partner with teachers to enact guidelines for teaching students civil discourse curriculum while allowing educators flexibility in how they teach these skills.

    Our goal should be to graduate students who are not afraid of disagreement, but who have developed active listening skills and know how to engage in it thoughtfully, respectfully, and constructively.”

    • At a candidate Forum hosted by the League of Women Voters of North Orange County, Marilyn said the following:

      • Regarding her thoughts on charter schools and vouchers; “There are some problematic charter schools. I support public schools, and I want the tax dollars to go to the public schools. There have been problems with charter schools using money and then being in financial trouble after a year. So I want to keep our kids at the public schools, especially because [charter] schools don’t cater to the needs of children who have special needs; they only want to help kids whose parents are requesting what they want. So I believe public schools are better for our county and our district than charter schools. Thank you.”

      • When asked how she’d support mixed-status immigrant families, she said, “Telling them that they’re safe is one thing, but actively showing them is another. Families are still scared to come to school. I saw that at Ladera Vista last year, when my son was there. Kids weren’t coming to school because they were scared, even though families were assured their kids would be safe. Having a mentor from the school or a counselor reassure them that their child will be safe at school is one thing, but showing them, and having the school community come together to support them, is what helps each family. Thank you.”

      • When asked how she would support students with special needs, she answered, “I would support students with special needs by supporting the staff, for sure, and making sure they have the proper resources to help students with special needs. I would also support the families of special needs children, because I feel that’s important; they need motivation and encouragement for their child. And treating every student the same as every other student is important, so they don’t feel left out. Thank you.”


    Endorsed by: 

    • Supporters of Public Education

    • Democratic Party of Orange County

    • Western State Carpenters Union

    • Painters and Allied Trades DC 36

    • Plumbers & Steamfitters Union 582


    Candidate in the News: 

    Public Voting Record: None Found


    Follow the Money: 

    • None found as of 10/11/2026

Fullerton Joint School District

  • Brea Olinda USD School Board Area 4 Candidate (Incumbent) (Appointed)


    Candidate Statement:

    “NATALIE JOHNSON

    Appointed Governing Board Member, Brea Olinda Unified School District, Area 4

    As the current Trustee for Brea Olinda Unified School District Area 4, appointed by the Board of Education to fill the Area 4 vacancy, it has been an honor to serve the students, families, educators, and community of Brea. As both a parent of two children attending BOUSD schools and an educational leader with more than a decade of experience, I bring the perspective of someone who understands the importance of strong public schools from both the family and

    professional viewpoints.

    Since joining the Board of Education, I have been committed to thoughtful, transparent decision-making, supporting student achievement, and working collaboratively with fellow trustees, district leadership, staff, families, and the community. I remain focused on maintaining safe and welcoming schools, supporting our dedicated educators, ensuring responsible stewardship of district resources, and providing every student with the opportunity to succeed.

    I respectfully ask for your support so I can continue serving Trustee Area 4 with integrity, collaboration, and a strong commitment to excellence for all students.”


    Email: electnataliejohnson@gmail.com


    Campaign Website: https://johnson4bousd.com/

    Natalie’s campaign website leads with the words, “Focused on Students. Committed to Our Community.”

    Priorities: 

    • Student-Centered Academic Excellence (high-quality instruction, personalized learning)

    • Safe & Modern Facilities (campus safety, transparent use of Measure H bond money)

    • Inclusive & Transparent Leadership (special education, collaboration with staff, communication with families)

    • Supporting & Valuing BOUSD Staff (professional development, coaching, resources)


    Any Other Interesting Info:

    • Tagline: “Empowering Education Together.” 

    • Brea resident, BOUSD parent of two daughters, and longtime educational leader

    • Husband is a school principal in Orange County.

    • Over a decade in education. Currently an assistant director at a public charter school, overseeing and supporting special education; previously an education facilitator and classroom teacher (BOUSD press release).

    •  Education: master’s degree in Elementary Education from Biola University (a private Christian university in La Mirada).

    • Brea resident since 2019; parent of two children at Laurel Elementary. Served three years on Laurel’s School Site Council and five years as a PTO Special Education representative (Spotlight Schools).


    Social Media Links: 


    Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:

    Note: All of the accounts Johnson follows on her instagram appear to be either other electeds and officials in and around Brea (none of whom appear to be particularly involved in political battles involving marginalized people), Brea community accounts, and Brea Olinda school district accounts. 


    Candidate’s Public Comments:

    • Before her appointment, she spoke during public comment at BOUSD board meetings on campus safety and fencing projects (per the district’s press release). 

    • Campaign website: Among other first-person statements, she says she believes “effective governance is built on collaboration, transparency, thoughtful decision-making” (johnson4bousd.com). Pull further quotes directly from the site.

    • Natalie 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: “Civil discourse is foundational to a healthy community. Our goal must be teaching students how to think critically, listen respectfully, and express their ideas constructively. Never telling them what to think.

    Focusing on core civic skills: We can better prepare students by strengthening non-partisan civic education, evidence-based debate, and critical thinking skills. Teaching students how to evaluate sources, analyze multiple perspectives, and communicate with mutual respect helps them navigate complex issues thoughtfully.

    Encouraging active listening: True discourse requires listening to understand rather than simply responding to win. Incorporating structured classroom discussions where students practice summarizing opposing viewpoints builds empathy and mutual respect across differences.

    Adult modeling and shared values: As a school district, leadership starts at the top. The board and district leadership must model civility, transparency, and respectful dialogue during public meetings.

    Grounding our approach in universal values of respect, intellectual curiosity, and free expression creates a safe environment where every student feels heard, valued, and empowered to contribute to our shared community.”

    • 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: “Artificial intelligence is a powerful tool that is safe and effective when guided by strong guardrails, but harmful when permitted to replace critical thinking.

    Where AI should be expanded: AI should be integrated as an educational assistant to teach digital literacy, help students brainstorm ideas, build coding/robotics skills, and provide personalized tutoring support. It should also be leveraged to assist teachers with lesson planning and administrative tasks so they can spend more face-to-face time with students.

    Where AI must be limited: AI must be strictly restricted during direct student assessments, essay writing, and core problem-solving tasks where independent thought is evaluated. Protecting student data privacy and ensuring zero algorithmic bias are non-negotiable safety requirements.

    Our governing principle: The ultimate goal of classroom technology must always be student driven, original work. We must teach our students how to ethically navigate AI tools as modern resources without allowing technology to shortcut authentic learning, critical thinking, or academic integrity.”


    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.

    • Kate Alcala—Brea parent and former BOUSD teacher

    • Kim Sommer—Brea parent, local business owner, nonprofit board member

    • Lisa Cristea—Brea parent and Laurel PTO executive board member

    • Leah (Trybulski) Allgeie —current BOUSD education specialist

    • Mandy Burdett–—Brea parent

    • Natalie Montano–—Brea parent

    • Amy Kim–—Brea parent

    • Ana Paniagua–—Brea parent 

    • Elizabeth Ellison—Brea parent and educator

    • Monica DeMarti—Teacher


    Candidate in the News:

    •       Brea Olinda USD Board of Education Appoints Natalie Johnson as Area 4 Trustee — Spotlight Schools, April 22, 2026 (republished district press release).

    •       Newly appointed trustee Natalie Johnson sworn in — Citizen Portal, April 23, 2026.

    Public Voting Record:

    • June 11, 2026: made the motion to appoint the district’s new Administrative Director of Child Development Services (Citizen Portal).

    • July 24, 2026: absent for the closed-session votes appointing two assistant principals (passed 4-0) (Citizen Portal).


    Follow the Money: None Found

  • Brea Olinda USD School Board Area 4 Candidate


    Candidate Statement:

    “WENDY CRINER | Teacher

    My name is Wendy Criner, and I am running for Brea Olinda School Board, Area 4. My entire career has been centered on supporting our youth–in the classroom as a public school teacher, on the pool deck and the field as a coach, and at the decision-making table on the School Site Council. With your support, I’m ready to bring that experience to the school board.

    My husband and I moved to Brea over 15 years ago for its exceptional schools. Our two daughters attended Falcon Academy, Brea Junior High, and Brea Olinda High School. I believe in practical, thoughtful solutions that support student growth and foster critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and global readiness.

    As a district, we must address complex challenges responsibly. As we move forward with Measure H projects, it is vital that funds are invested with fiscal prudence to ensure safe, healthy, and supportive learning environments for all students.

    Our schools are the heart of Brea. Our community deserves a leader who understands both the classroom and local values. I am committed to protecting our investments, empowering teachers, and putting children first. I respectfully ask for your vote.”


    Email: wendycrinerforbousd@gmail.com


    Campaign Website: Candidate does not appear to have a campaign website.


    Any Other Interesting Info:

    • She is the only candidate endorsed by the Brea Olinda Teachers Association

    • Honors/Awards (source):

      • 2005 Apple of Character Award

      • 2008 Apple of Character Award

      • 2009-10 Western High School Teacher of the Year

      • 2011-12 Anaheim Union High School District EL Teacher of the Year

      • As of 2017 National Board Certified Teacher in Adolescent English Language Arts

    • Background: Her staff profile at Western High School in the Anaheim Union High School District describes her as an Orange County native who studied at UC Berkeley, earned an English teaching credential and an M.S. from Cal State Fullerton, began teaching in 1998, and has taught at Western High since 2001. It also says she has been an adjunct at Cal State Fullerton since 2005, teaching future teachers, and that she is the mother of two daughters (staff profile). 


    Social Media Links: 


    Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:

    Campaign Instagram:


    Candidate’s Public Comments:

    Source: OC Register Questionnaire

    What are the top two needs of your school district, and how are you prepared to address them? (Please answer in 200 words or fewer.)

    “As we are implementing the funds from Measure H approved in 2024, we need to ensure fiscal responsibility while modernizing the learning experience. As a district, we must address complex challenges with integrity to ensure these funds provide safe, healthy, and supportive learning environments for all students. Our Brea schools are the heart of our community, and our students deserve facilities that provide them with the best we can provide them. We need to ensure our oversight committee has the time and resources needed to provide the proper checks and balances to those projects.

    Another need is to provide resources and training to support the whole child. As technology advances and students are gaining access to more information, the use of electronic devices becomes critical. It is imperative that we monitor use carefully, provide learning opportunities on cyber safety, and educate our students on appropriate technology use. Furthermore, the impact of students’ mental health by technology and social media cannot be underestimated. Although the district has already dedicated funds to alleviating some of these concerns, we need to evaluate their effectiveness to ensure that we are implementing the most impactful programs with our funding.”


    Endorsed by:

    • Brea Olinda Teachers Association


    Candidate in the News:

    • OC Register Questionnaire

      • To you, what is the role of a school board in education? Is it driving policy, being involved in curriculum, something else entirely? (Please answer in 200 words or fewer.)

      • The school board provides oversight on items such as: program implementation, staffing, funding allocations, and school/classroom policies, to name a few. While it serves as a form of checks and balances to the functioning of the district, it is also the board members’ responsibility to ensure they have the whole picture prior to voting on decisions presented to the board. Decisions should be based on the collaborative input of district personnel, teachers, administrators, classified staff, parents, community leaders, and of course, the students. I believe wholeheartedly that we are better when we come together to share ideas, resources, and efforts.

      • As a board, we directly oversee the superintendent, her roles and responsibilities, and support her in how programs and policies will be implemented. It is then her responsibility to fulfill those needs by working with our staff within the district office, as well as each school site.

      • Finally, it is my job as a board member to maintain a pulse on the schools. I need to be present at the sites and speak to the people: administrators, teachers, classified staff, students, and parents. Staying connected to the people, their stories, and their needs, helps me determine important next steps.

    Public Voting Record:

    None found


    Follow the Money: 

    • $1,000 BOTA PAC

    • $1,000 BOTA OAC

    • $985.69 BOTA PAC

    • $1,000 BOTA PAC

      • “BOTA PAC” stands for Brea Olinda Teachers Association Political Action Committee (BOTA-PAC), ID #860724

Brea Olinda Unified School District

North OC Community College District

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Municipal Water District of Orange County

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Orange County Board of Supervisors District 4

Orange County Board of Education District 3

Orange County Board of Education District 4

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41st District, House of Representatives

34th District, CA State Senate

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64th District, CA State Assembly

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.

  • *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: 

    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: 

    Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:

    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)

    • Orange County Democratic Party

    • 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:

    Follow the Money: 

    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

  • *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:

    • 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: 

    Follows on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook:

    ***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:

    Public Voting Record:

    Not applicable

    Follow the Money:

    • $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.

  • *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)

    • Barack Obama

    • Kamala Harris

    • Beyonce

    • (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)

    • California Faculty Assoc. 

    • Equal Justice Society

    • 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.”

    Endorsed by: 

    •  Orange County Democratic Party

    • 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:

    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

  • *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.”

    Endorsed by: 

    • 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:

    Follow the Money: 

    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.

  • *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

    Campaign Statement: 

    “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:

    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:

    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

  • *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: 

    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

    • Michael Gates

    • Spencer Pratt

    • Steve Hilton

    • 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:

    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.

  • *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)

    • Equality California 

    • 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:

    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

  • *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 Party

    • 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:

    Public Voting Record:

    • None found, as Hawks has never served in an elected capacity before. 

    Follow the Money: 

    • 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