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

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

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

Villa Park

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City Council Race

  • Candidate OUSD district 3


    Dan has no ballot statement, website or social media. 


    He is a manager for an aerospace company, according to his FPPC Form 700 found through the OC Registrar’s office.  However, he has not filed any campaign finances reflecting any donations. 


    He doesn’t have any endorsements that we could find, with the closest to an endorsement coming from far-right organization Reform California, who listed as their endorsement for this race: “Area 3: Not Ana Page”. 



    Excerpt taken from the Orange Juice Blog:


    “He’s the dad of rightwing scribbler Chris Nguyen. We know Chris! (Right) He used to run a dull, moribund Republican blog named OCPolitical – that is, until the Anaheim kleptocracy became aware of his talents and hired him to write their mendacious statements (and even made him a commissioner!) Thus, when I tried to recall Harry Sidhu, and later Jordan Brandman, my statements were responded to by identical, identically dishonest statements by Chris Nguyen. Shame, Chris – you can’t even write a statement for your Dad?”



    The OC Register asked Dan about his views on Forced Outing Policies. 


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

    Dan: “Parents should be, and need to be, involved in the education of their children. They need to encourage their students to work hard, try to do their best in all classes, pay attention to the materials being taught, be respectful of their teachers, etc. Parents need to work with teachers and schools, paying attention to the progress or lack of progress of their children.

    Regarding parental notification policies, if a child may be changing their gender identity, we tend to oversimplify this issue by having the policy (or law) either require or prohibit schools from notifying parents. A “blanket policy” will not work for all students and all families. This can be a very emotional challenge for a student and their parents. Some parents may be supportive, but some may also react very negatively to this. We need to be flexible, treating each case individually and with care. It’s unfair to force teachers or school administrators to become the enforcers of a blanket policy. It would be better to have a trained professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, talk with the student, find out more how the student would feel talking to their parents, and then make a recommendation.”


  • candidate OUSD district 3


    Current OUSD board president

    Parent of current OUSD students

    OUSD graduate

    OUSD volunteer

    Expert in early childhood education and currently pursuing a PhD in education

    Former educator, preschool

    Life long OUSD resident


    Ana Page agreed to take the School Board Advocacy Pledge. 


    Very active school board member. Regularly visits OUSD schools and events 


    Ana is very supportive of LBGTQ+ students & families; Ana has been a panelist for Pride at the Pier’s Good Faith Conversation series, speaking both as an educational professional and as someone who has queer folks close to her in her life. 


    Forced outing policy vote - absent because she had to flee the meeting in fear for her safety just before the vote. Pride at the Pier was there at the meeting in question; a large number of extremist, anti-LGBTQ+ activists were screaming and yelling, creating a very threatening atmosphere.  There was significant security concern for the trustees who were not supportive of forced outing policies. 


    Supported the passing of AB1955. 


    Political platform 

    Balanced budget, fiscal responsibility, taxpayer protection ensuring resources flow into classrooms.

    Prioritize student safety and mental health 

    Upgrade and fix aging school facilities and campuses 

    Meet the diverse need of our community and provide essential services for parents, families, and all students


    Accomplishments

    ✅ Placed counselors at every elementary site

    ✅ Expanded career technical programs

    ✅ Augmented enriching after-school programs

    ✅ Developed an Asset Management Plan

    ✅ Facilitated an updated Student Bill of Rights


    Website: https://page4ousd.com

    Instagram: @presidentanapage

    Campaign Instagram: @page4ousd


    On her instagram, she posted an image that says “Protect Trans Youth”. 



    The OC Register asked Ana about her views on Forced Outing Policies. 


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

    Ana: “Parents play a crucial role in education by supporting their child’s learning and development, advocating for their needs, and partnering with educators to ensure their child’s success. They provide essential insights into their child’s background, strengths, and challenges, which can help tailor educational approaches and support.

    There are limitations to parental involvement, especially when it comes to sensitive issues like gender identity. While parents should be informed and involved in decisions that directly affect their child, it’s also important to respect students’ privacy and autonomy, particularly in situations where disclosure could lead to harm or distress.

    The new law aims to balance these concerns by preventing districts from enforcing parental notification policies regarding changes in gender identity. This approach recognizes that students may need a safe space to explore their identity without immediate pressure to disclose to their parents, especially if the home environment might not be supportive. Big government policies should not be one-size-fits-all solutions; parents should have the autonomy to make decisions in the best interest of their children rather than having government mandates dictate how they should parent. The role of parents in education is vital, but it must be balanced with respect for students’ rights and well-being.”


  • Candidate OUSD district 4

    Candidate, Orange County Water District District 2

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


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




    No ballot statement for the OUSD or the OCWD races. 


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


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


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


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


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


  • candidate OUSD district 4


    Sara agreed to take the School Board Advocacy Pledge, saying, “Thank you for reaching out! I absolutely agree to the Advocacy Pledge in its entirety. As a public school educator for the past 34 years, and now as a school board member, I believe it is my duty to assure that ALL students have access to a safe, accepting, respectful learning environment, and the best education we can provide. I appreciate all Pride at the Pier does to advocate for every student”.



    Current OUSD school board member, appointed (post recall) running for the remaining term of Madison Miner

    35 years in education 

    Retired OUSD principal and teacher

    Degree in Elementary Education 

    Very active school board member. Visits schools and school events.

    Advocate for those without a voice, encouraging parents to become involved with the schools and speak out for their children


    Per our direct sources within the pro-LGBTQ+ OUSD Recall team that campaigned to oust Madison Miner and Rick Ledesma from the OUSD in March, “Sara is an ally and supports LGBTQ+ students”. 



    Platform 

    • Ensuring open and transparent communication with all stakeholders.

    • Improving facilities by wisely managing maintenance funds and fully developing an Asset Management Plan where the needs determine priority.

    • Fostering success of the innovative programs that make OUSD a destination district by providing proper supports for administrators and teachers.


    Website: https://www.pelly4ousd.com

    Instagram: @pellyforousd

    Campaign Instagram: @pellyforousd2024



    The OC Register asked Sara about her views on AB 1955.  

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


    Sara: “As a teacher and principal, I value every child as an individual, and one-size-fits-all all policies are in contradiction to the uniqueness of each child and family. Parent involvement is critical in the success of their child’s education. As a principal, I listened to parents’ concerns, and even when we didn’t agree, I made an effort to find common ground, which was the desire to do what was best for their child. Communication and collaboration are key elements in the partnership between schools and families, and that will always be a priority for me.”

  • Candidate OUSD district 7



    Former OUSD school board trustee 2004-2008 

    During his early campaigns, Rocco gained a reputation for having misled voters about being a “teacher.” Rocco does have an expired teaching credential, but our researchers cannot find any evidence of him actually being employed as a teacher anywhere. 


    As far as we can tell, Rocco won his election in 2004 largely in part because his ballot statement said he was a “teacher” while his opponent said he was a “park ranger.” 


    Tried to list himself as a “retired teacher/writer” on his 2024 designation but a private citizen challenged the designation and the ROV agreed and removed “teacher”. Private citizens are legally allowed to challenge designations on ballots for a limited time during candidate filings - this is a legal process that exists through the OC Registrar of Voters. 


    A source who was highly involved as a parent within OUSD during Rocco’s 2004-2008 term shared what she recalled of that time; “Rocco was deliberately disruptive and obstructive when he was a trustee. He voted “no” or abstained on every single vote, refused to attend closed session meetings - when he had the floor, he spoke of county-sanctioned plots and attempts to silence him; conspiracy theories involving county officials; the misuse of authority and his enemies list.  He demeaned other board members and refused to observe board protocols. He arrived early to meetings so he could place copies of his grievances on every seat in the audience, none of which had anything to do with the school district governance or its students. Wrote a book about “the partnership,” a cabal of powerful individuals he says runs the county and has tried to assassinate him.  …it took them a month to even find him after he won the election, no one could contact him”. 


    News articles from that period of time reflect this unusual behavior, as well; 

    Rocco Speech Prompts School Board Change - LA Times

    Mystery school board winner gets sworn in - Recordnet

    Judge dismisses suit by Orange schools trustee - LA Times

    Rocco in action with vintage cameos of Rick Ledesma and John Ortega



    Rocco does not have any social media, campaign websites, or campaign finances filed. 


    No one has endorsed Rocco. 


    It’s hard to tell if Rocco has any particular stance towards the LGBTQ+ community - it’s hard to tell what his stances are on any issues. 


  • Candidate OUSD district 7 

    Current OUSD school board member, appointed (post recall) running for the remaining term of Rick Ledesma

    27 years of experience as an educator

    Former OUSD teacher

    Met and married fellow teacher Sheryl at Orange High and married on campus under “the dome.”

    Distinguished Faculty in Residence at CSU Long Beach 

    Current parent of OUSD students

    OUSD resident

    Per our direct sources within the pro-LGBTQ+ OUSD Recall team that campaigned to oust Madison Miner and Rick Ledesma from the OUSD in March; “Dr. Stephen Glass is supportive of LBGTQ students and families”


    Stephen’s Platform Per His Campaign Website

    • Enhanced Curriculum & Educational Programs - Developing and expanding curriculum initiatives that cater to diverse student needs and interests, including advanced placement courses and career readiness programs

    • Fiscal Responsibility And Resource Allocation- Ensuring transparent and efficient management of educational resources to maximize student outcomes and support long-term sustainability in educational programs.

    • Technology Integration And Innovation -Leveraging technology to support personalized learning experiences, digital literacy, and innovative teaching methodologies.

    • Community Engagement And Partnership - Strengthening partnerships between schools, families, and community organizations to foster a collaborative approach to student success and well-being

    • (*not popular with our red base, sadly) Equity And Inclusion In Education- Implementing policies and programs that ensure equitable access to quality education for all students, regardless of background or socioeconomic status.

    • Teacher Support And Professional Development - Investing in ongoing training and professional development opportunities for educators to enhance teaching practices and student engagement.

    Website: https://www.drglass4ousd.com

    Instagram: @drglass4ousd


    The OC Register asked Stephen about his views on AB 1955, and the role of parents. 


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


    Stephen: “Parents are key to a child’s education, and their involvement should be respected. Schools also have a responsibility to ensure every student feels safe and valued. A balanced approach that fosters collaboration between parents and schools can protect student well-being while honoring parental roles. This ensures that all students thrive in an environment that respects their humanity and individual needs.”

Orange Unified School District

Rancho Santiago Community College District

  • Candidate for Rancho Santiago Community College Board

    District Area 3


    BE AWARE: Ceci Iglesias is the founder of the “Parents’ Union” at the California Policy Center. The CPC is a very well-funded and organized, extreme anti-public education, anti-LGBTQ+ organization. They’ve been heavily involved in anti-LGBTQ+ legislative and litigation efforts across California.  The “Parents’ Union’ is a group that works to train far-right individuals to get further involved in local politics. 


    Ceci Iglesias is involved at an Executive level in anti-LGBTQ+ efforts. 



    Personal Website: [https://ceciliaiglesias.com

    ^ THIS SITE SEEMS TO BE DOWN CURRENTLY

    Find Ceci’s 2020 Santa Ana Mayoral Candidacy Campaign Website here

    “I will work with all residents, schools, churches, nonprofits and businesses to make Santa Ana vibrant again.“


    Ceci does not seem to have a campaign website for the Rancho Santiago CCD race. 



    You can find her Candidate Statement here

    “With your vote, together we can move our students’ College Education forward and make the Santa Ana Community College Experience Great Again!!



    Social Media: 

    Personal Facebook

    Political Facebook:

    Instagram: NONE FOUND

    Twitter: NONE FOUND




    Endorsed by: 

    (PAST ENDORSEMENT:) Cecilia Iglesias for Orange County supervisor: Endorsement” - OC REGISTER (for 2022 Endorsement for OC Board Of Supervisors – no 2024 endorsement)

    “Cecilia Iglesias is the best choice of the bunch [to represent the majority-Latino Second District of the Orange County Board of Supervisors], with her long record of speaking truth to power.”



    NEW SANTA ANA - “Sal Tinajero opts out of his college board seat and endorses Ceci Iglesias” 

    “Sal Tinajero, the President of the Rancho Santiago Community College District, has opted not to run for reelection in the upcoming November General Election, and has endorsed former Santa Ana City Councilwoman and former SAUSD School Board Member Ceci Iglesias for his college board seat. This is a bit surprising as Tinajero is a liberal Democrat and Iglesias is a Republican. However they have known each other for years and both served on the SAUSD School Board together.” 



    News:




    Follow the Money: 

    As of 9.21.2024, Ceci had raised $12,996.00. However, she did not report the individual donations in her reporting - this is an unusual situation.  While we can’t confirm, it /appears/ that she just excluded those pages from her filings.  We aren’t able to advise who her campaign donors are.


  • Candidate for Rancho Santiago Community College Board

    District Area 3


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

    “After the Marine Corps I graduated UC Irvine and then law school where I volunteered in the Immigrant Justice Clinic representing Special Immigrant Juveniles fleeing persecution. (…) Law School made me one of the 43 million Americans shouldering the student loans that are part and parcel of the American dream.“



    Find his Candidate Statement here:

    “Our community is impacted by problems such as stagnant wages and economic uncertainty. Our community colleges are the pathway to so many family firsts. I have benefited from the

    affordability of a community college and we need to make sure that they remain affordable.”



    Social Media: 

    Personal Facebook

    Political Facebook:

    Instagram

    Twitter: NONE FOUND

    LinkedIn



    On instagram, this candidate follows: 



    Endorsed by: 

    • Orange County Democrats:

    • Orange County Young Democrats:

    • Planned Parenthood Action Fund of Orange and San Bernardino Counties

    • LA/OC Building Trades

    • Western State Regional Council of Carpenters

    • Avelino Valencia - Assemblymember

    • Tom Daly - Former Assemblymember

    • Valerie Amezcua - Santa Ana Mayor

    • Thai Viet Phan - Santa Ana Mayor Pro Tem 

    • Phil Bacerra - Santa Ana Councilmember

    • David Penaloza - Santa Ana Councilmember

    • Kim Nguyen-Penaloza - Garden Grove Councilmember

    • Jon Dumitru - City of Orange Councilmember

    • Danny Vega - Police Oversight Commissioner 

    • Zeke Hernandez - RSCCD Trustee

    • John Palacio - Former SAUSD Trustee

    • Denise Reynoso - SAUSD Teacher

    • Carl Benninger - Santa Ana Planning Commissioner




    News:

    “In 2022, Bacerra’s campaign contributed to Andrew Linares’ failed school board campaign. Linares later became Bacerra’s aide.”



    Follow the Money: 

    In Sep 2024, Linares’ campaign received $1000 from Bacerra for City Council


  • Candidate for Rancho Santiago Community College Board

    District Area 3


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

    “I advocate for affordable and high-quality college education to equip students to compete for high-wage jobs.”


    Nelida endorsed Lloyd Boucher-Reyes for SAUSD.  Boucher-Reyes is openly anti-LGBTQ. 


    Candidate Statement:

    “I aim to inspire our K-12 and adult students to pursue college and career education, providing the tools for them to achieve professions that offer living wages and optimal working conditions.”



    Social Media (clickable links):

    Personal Facebook

    Old Political Facebook

    Instagram

    Twitter

    LinkedIn

    Old LinkedIn


    Nelida supported a Recall of Ceci Iglesias, a far-right Santa Ana City Council member.  The Recall was successful, and Nelida was chosen to replace her



    On instagram, this candidate follows: 

    ***Mendoza isn’t following anyone on IG. 


    Endorsed by: 



    News:


    Santa Ana welcomes replacement City Council Member Nelida Mendoza” - NEW SANTA ANA

    “Councilmember Mendoza was appointed as a Commissioner on the City of Santa Ana’s Environmental and Transportation Advisory Commission (ETAC) by then-Councilmember Claudia Alvarez, and as the Chairperson for the Community Redevelopment and Housing Commission.”


    “Noncitizens would be allowed to vote in Santa Ana under November ballot measure” - ABC 7:”

    “We have not heard back from former Santa Ana councilmember Nelida Mendoza who authored the argument against Measure DD, [which would allow any person who has established residency in that city to vote in local elections, regardless of citizenship status - as long as the person meets California's other voting requirements].


    On the ballot Mendoza's statement reads in part: ‘This would cost the city $10 million, leading to massive budget cuts in public safety, emergency services, and other city priorities. ... We support our immigrant residents and Santa Ana is a vibrant city rich in the traditions of immigrant communities, families, and businesses. But we must assess the importance of protecting neighborhoods, cleaning and fixing our streets, and picking up trash.’”



    Follow the Money: 

    • Aug 2024 - $4000 from Committee to Elect Nelida Mendoza For City Council 2026

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Serrano Water District