County Offices — 2026 General Election
November 3, 2026 — the county-level races on the ballots in Riverside and San Bernardino counties
About these races: County offices are nonpartisan — candidates do not run under a party label on the ballot. They appear on every voter's ballot in that county, so they show up for the CA-40 and CA-48 voters in Riverside County and for the CA-31 voters in San Bernardino County. Several are decided outright at the June 2 primary if a candidate clears 50%+1; otherwise the top two advance to November. This page profiles the contests that remain competitive or notable in each county.
CountyRiverside County
Riverside County is California's fourth-most-populous county, with a secured property-tax roll of roughly $5.7B and an annual budget near $7 billion. Voters there cast ballots for Assessor-County Clerk-Recorder, Auditor-Controller, and Superior Court judges, among other offices. The contests below are the ones drawing attention this cycle.
Assessor-County Clerk-Recorder Incumbent vs. challenger
The office: The Assessor-County Clerk-Recorder appraises all taxable property, records official documents (deeds, marriage licenses, birth/death certificates), and serves as the county's chief elections officer. Incumbent Peter Aldana, first elected in 2014 and re-elected unopposed in 2018 and 2022, faces businessman and former water-district director Jared McBride. If neither clears a majority, the top two meet again in November.
Peter Aldana Nonpartisan Age 62 Incumbent Favorite
Incumbent Assessor-County Clerk-Recorder (since 2014) • Riverside
Elected in June 2014 and re-elected without opposition in 2018 and 2022. Has spent his entire career — over 30 years — in the county's ACR office, working in appraisal, supervisory, and management roles before becoming assistant assessor and then taking the top job. Holds a BA from Cal State Fullerton and an MA in Education from Azusa Pacific University. Lifelong Riverside County resident. Serves on the California Assessors' Association, the County Recorder's Association of California, the California Association of Clerks and Election Officers, and the International Association of Assessing Officers. Received the American Society for Public Administration's Outstanding Elected Official Award (2026).
Top Issues / Platform
- Fair assessments: Ensure property valuations are accurate and equitable under Proposition 13
- Modernization: Expand remote service offerings, digital platforms, and online access to records
- Customer service: Improve responsiveness, accessibility, and communication with the public
- Exemptions & relief: Increase awareness of and access to property-tax exemptions residents qualify for
- Accuracy: Deliver the annual assessment roll on time with high accuracy standards
Key Endorsements
- Jordan Marks — San Diego County Assessor-Recorder-County Clerk
- Josie Gonzales — San Bernardino County Assessor-Recorder-County Clerk
- Kristen DePaul — Modoc County Assessor-Recorder & CA Assessors' Association President
- Former Riverside County Assessors Gary Orso & Larry Ward
- Laborers' Union Local 777, Riverside Sheriffs Association, California Real Estate PAC
Read on the race
- Strengths: 30+ years of experience in the office; no significant controversies in 12 years as department head; bipartisan support from county assessors statewide and local labor/law enforcement; a modernizing, incrementalist record; and two unopposed re-elections.
- Weaknesses: A 12-year tenure invites "career insider" attacks; not known for bold reform; a low-profile office that struggles to motivate voter interest; and he has not been tested in a campaign since 2014.
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Jared McBride Nonpartisan Age 38 Challenger
Business Owner / Former EVMWD Board Director • Aguanga
A business owner and first-time candidate for countywide office. Born and raised in Riverside County. Holds a master's degree in management from the University of Chicago and Boston University. Served on the Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District (EVMWD) Board of Directors from December 2018 to June 2021 representing Division 3 (Lakeland Village, Wildomar, and surrounding unincorporated areas), resigning after moving out of the district. Married, raising eight children; lives in the Aguanga area. Endorsed by Reform California, the conservative taxpayer-advocacy group founded by Carl DeMaio. Running as a political outsider promising to audit the assessor's office and cut waste.
Top Issues / Platform
- Stop property-tax gouging: End valuation practices he says inflate assessments beyond reality
- Reduce the appeals backlog: Cut the assessment-appeal backlog by 25% within the first year
- Bureaucracy audit: Publish an annual report on office waste, efficiency, and administrative spending
- Taxpayer service guarantee: Implement measurable service standards for all tax-order divisions
- Transparency: Make assessment data and valuation methodology clear and accessible to every homeowner
Key Endorsements
- Reform California (Carl DeMaio's taxpayer-advocacy organization)
- Former EVMWD board member (2018–2021)
Read on the race
- Strengths: A fresh outsider perspective; specific, measurable promises (a 25% appeal-backlog reduction, an annual audit report); a small-government/anti-tax message that can resonate in conservative inland areas; and public-board budget experience.
- Weaknesses: No experience in property assessment, appraisal, or county record-keeping; resigned his only prior elected post mid-term; limited endorsements versus the incumbent's broad assessor network; low countywide name ID; and no publicly available campaign-finance data.
Auditor-Controller Incumbent unopposed
The office: The Auditor-Controller is the county's chief fiscal officer — auditing departments that spend public funds, running payroll for 20,000+ employees, administering a ~$5.7B property-tax roll, and acting as fiscal watchdog over a ~$7B budget. Incumbent Ben J. Benoit is the only candidate to file, so he is effectively assured a second term.
Ben J. Benoit Nonpartisan Age ~46 Incumbent Unopposed
Incumbent Riverside County Auditor-Controller • Wildomar
First elected in 2022 after defeating 12-year incumbent Paul Angulo. Son of the late State Senator and Riverside County Supervisor John J. Benoit. Grew up in the Coachella Valley and moved to the Wildomar area in 2006. Small-business owner and community volunteer. Elected to the Wildomar City Council in 2010 and served 12 years, including four terms as Mayor. Previously a planning commissioner, VP of Public Affairs for the California Apartment Association (2017–2023), and auditor for the Inland Empire Taxpayers Association. Currently chairs the South Coast Air Quality Management District and serves on the Riverside County Transportation Commission, WRCOG, and SCAG. Not a certified public accountant — a fact his predecessor raised in 2022 — but the Registrar qualified him and voters elected him by a decisive margin.
Top Issues / Platform
- Accountability: Implemented reforms recommended by a 2022 Grand Jury report that identified 12 ongoing failures in the office
- Full audits: Ensure every county department receives a full audit every two years
- Staffing: Fully staffed Internal Audit Division with certified professionals — the first time in years
- Collaborative oversight: Shifted the audit culture from adversarial to partnership-based, focused on solutions
- Transparency: Public-facing reporting on county finances and audit findings
Key Endorsements
- All five County Supervisors (2022)
- Former Supervisor Kevin Jeffries (1st District)
- Supervisor V. Manuel Perez (4th District)
- Former Supervisors John Tavaglione, Marion Ashley, and Tom Mullen
- Numerous city mayors and councilmembers across Riverside County
Read on the race
- Strengths: Sole candidate, so re-election is effectively assured. Rebuilt the Internal Audit Division (10 certified professionals), completed 54 audits with 100+ recommendations, delivered the $5.7B secured tax roll on time, and repaired a relationship the Grand Jury had called "dysfunctional."
- Weaknesses: Not a CPA, which his predecessor argued disqualified him; a prior VP role at the California Apartment Association raises landlord/developer-tie questions; and political-dynasty concerns given his father's career.
Superior Court — Office No. 10 Open seat • nonpartisan
The office: Office No. 10 is an open seat created by the retirement of veteran Judge Harold Hopp. It is Riverside County's only contested judicial race this cycle and is nonpartisan — candidates are not listed by party. If no candidate wins a majority (50%+1) in June, the top two advance to November 3. The winner is assigned by the Presiding Judge to any division and faces voters again in six years. Three candidates filed: Michelle Paradise, Jennifer R. Loflin, and Andrea Garcia.
Michelle Paradise Nonpartisan Age ~60 Frontrunner
Assistant County Executive Officer for Public Safety • Former Prosecutor (25 yrs)
Nearly 40 years in the justice system. Began as a 911 dispatcher for Riverside PD/FD. Spent 25 years as a prosecutor at the Riverside County DA's Office, rising to Assistant District Attorney, and took more than 100 serious and violent felony cases to jury trial, specializing in child abuse and homicide. Recognized as California's Prosecutor of the Year. Served as Chief Deputy DA overseeing Major Crimes and Special Prosecution Units (2015), then Assistant DA running the Indio/Blythe offices (2016) and downtown Riverside (2019). Since 2023, serves as Assistant County Executive Officer for Public Safety, overseeing the Sheriff, DA, Public Defender, Probation, Fire, and Emergency Management. JD from the University of San Diego School of Law. Mother of four, grandmother of three.
Qualifications & Philosophy
- Over 100 jury trials — extensive criminal and civil trial experience
- California Prosecutor of the Year
- Executive leadership of the entire county public-safety apparatus
- Philosophy: apply the law to the facts without bias or prejudice; treat everyone with dignity and respect; judges are not activists or lawmakers
- Expert in medically complex child-abuse and homicide cases
Key Endorsements
- Presiding Judge Jacqueline Jackson
- Judge Harold Hopp (retiring incumbent)
- District Attorney Mike Hestrin
- Public Defender Steve Harmon
- Sheriff Chad Bianco
- Riverside County Board of Supervisors
- 15+ Superior Court judges; Congressman Ken Calvert; Riverside Sheriffs' Association
Jennifer R. Loflin Nonpartisan Age ~45 Challenger
Criminal Trial Attorney • Judge Pro Tem • Former Prosecutor & Public Defender
19 years in the criminal justice system, with experience on all three sides — prosecutor, public defender, and judge pro tem. San Bernardino County prosecutor (2007–2008) handling juvenile trials; director of the Riverside County Bar Association's Legal Aid program (2009–2011); Riverside County Public Defender (2011–2017); then rejoined the Riverside DA's Office as a prosecutor (2017–2018) specializing in felony domestic violence and general felonies. Handled employment law for first responders at Castillo Harper (2018–2019). Since 2019 runs her own criminal-defense firm. Since October 2023 has volunteered as a judge pro tem, filling in for absent judges. JD from Creighton University School of Law. Mother of three.
Qualifications & Philosophy
- Experience as prosecutor, public defender, and judge pro tem — a unique view from every seat in the courtroom
- Tried homicide, mayhem, and life cases; complex felony trials
- Philosophy: follow the law regardless of who is in front of you; think creatively when the answer isn't clear; prep after hours — "this isn't a 9-to-5 job"
- Experience across criminal, civil, employment, and collaborative courts
Key Endorsements
- No formal endorsement list published on the campaign website
Andrea Garcia Nonpartisan Age ~45 Challenger
Deputy Public Defender • Immigration-Law Specialist • Law Lecturer
Nearly 20 years practicing law in state and federal courts. California State Bar-certified specialist in immigration law. Founded Garcia Immigration Law Group (2016). Recruited by the Riverside County Public Defender's Office (2018) to create its first in-house immigration unit. Joined the San Bernardino Public Defender's Office (2023) as its first attorney focused on post-conviction relief for foreign-born clients — the intersection of criminal and immigration law ("crimmigration"). JD from DePaul University College of Law. Teaches at La Verne University College of Law and Monterey College of Law. Volunteers in San Bernardino's mobile defense program and homeless courts.
Qualifications & Philosophy
- Nearly 20 years in state and federal courts, trial and appellate
- Created the first immigration units at two public-defender offices
- State-certified immigration-law specialist — rare expertise for a judicial candidate
- Philosophy: humility as a public servant; guide cases and help people resolve complex legal problems; an open courtroom where both sides are heard with respect
Key Endorsements
- Superior Court judges across Southern California (multiple counties)
- Legal professionals from diverse practice areas
- Community leaders in immigration and civil rights
Read on the judicial race: Michelle Paradise is the clear front-runner, with the deepest courtroom record (100+ trials), executive leadership of the county's public-safety agencies, and the broadest endorsement list. Jennifer Loflin is the only candidate who has worked all three sides of the courtroom. Andrea Garcia brings distinctive immigration-law expertise. If no one cleared 50% in June, the top two advance to the November ballot; Paradise is the most likely to clear the threshold outright.
CountySan Bernardino County
San Bernardino County is the largest county by area in the United States (20,056 sq mi), with roughly 2.1 million residents and a consolidated county government overseeing an ~$8B budget. Its eastern San Gabriel Valley / western Inland Empire communities — including Chino, Chino Hills, Montclair, Ontario, and Upland — sit inside CA-31. Voters there weigh in on a busy slate of countywide offices and supervisorial districts.
Auditor-Controller/Treasurer/Tax Collector Incumbent vs. challenger
The office: San Bernardino is the only county in California that consolidates the Auditor, Controller, Treasurer, and Tax Collector into a single department. It manages a $16B+ investment pool, oversees ~350 employees, and presides over the county pension fund. Incumbent Ensen Mason faces Rancho Cucamonga City Councilmember Ryan Hutchison in a race dominated by an ongoing Board of Supervisors investigation into the incumbent.
Ryan Hutchison Nonpartisan Age 40 Challenger
CFO / Real Estate Broker • Rancho Cucamonga City Councilmember, District 3
A city councilmember and businessman challenging the incumbent. Serves on the Rancho Cucamonga City Council for District 3 (since January 2019) and is CFO of a construction-management company, as well as a real-estate broker since 2004. Holds a BA in Economics from Claremont McKenna College (2009). Has raised over $409K — one of the strongest financial positions of any countywide candidate in 2026. His central campaign issue is the Board of Supervisors' investigation into the incumbent for alleged self-dealing. All five county supervisors have endorsed him.
Top Issues / Platform
- Restore faith & accountability: Work full-time in the office; require an immediate compliance audit
- Stop wasteful spending: Balanced a $300M+ city budget, grew reserves, raised the bond rating — with no tax increases
- Transparency & ethics: Annual independent compliance audits; eliminate conflicts of interest
- Modernize systems: Efficient oversight systems and timely payments to vendors
- Economic development: Collaborate with county supervisors on job creation
Key Endorsements
- All 5 San Bernardino County Supervisors — Paul Cook (D1), Jesse Armendarez (D2), Dawn Rowe (D3), Curt Hagman (D4), Joe Baca (D5)
- Shannon Dicus — Sheriff
- Jason Anderson — District Attorney
- Josie Gonzales — Assessor
- 28+ local elected officials
Read on the race
- Strengths: A large fundraising edge ($409K+ vs. the incumbent's $0); 7 years of city-council fiscal oversight; endorsements from all five county supervisors; and a specific reform platform with measurable goals.
- Weaknesses: Lacks direct experience in county audit/treasury operations; weathered a court challenge over his qualifications (he survived and stayed on the ballot); and the race is nominally nonpartisan in a county with significant Democratic registration.
Ensen Mason Nonpartisan Age 57 Incumbent Favorite
Incumbent ATC (since 2019) • CPA, CFA, MBA • Redlands
Seeking a third term. Holds a BA in Accounting and an MBA in Finance from the University of Redlands, is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), and has over 40 years of accounting and finance experience. Under his tenure, the county's treasury pool grew from $6B to $16B+ and achieved a AAA rating from Fitch. The office has won 30 NACo awards and a GFOA Certificate of Achievement. He is under active investigation by the Board of Supervisors for alleged self-dealing and conflict of interest, and raised $0 in 2025.
Top Issues / Platform
- Proven financial leadership: 40+ years of experience; CPA + CFA credentials; 7.5 years doing the job
- Investment-pool performance: Treasury pool from $6B to $16B+, AAA rating, one of the highest yields in California
- Award-winning office: A "triple crown" of financial-reporting awards and clean independent audits
- Workforce development: Filling 50 open positions and expanding internships
- Independence & ethics: Maintain organizational independence and safeguards against conflicts
Key Endorsements
- CCSA Advocates (California Charter Schools Association) from previous campaigns
- No major 2026 elected-official endorsements identified
Read on the race
- Strengths: 40+ years of accounting/finance experience with CPA and CFA credentials; a strong track record (AAA rating, 30 NACo awards); a treasury pool that grew by $10B+; clean audits; and a 2022 re-election with 76.6%.
- Weaknesses: Under active investigation for alleged self-dealing; raised $0 in 2025 with no campaign infrastructure; all five supervisors endorsed his opponent; investigation results won't be released before Election Day; and he sued to remove his opponent from the ballot — seen by some as an overreach.
Sheriff/Coroner/Public Administrator Incumbent vs. challenger
The office: The Sheriff is the county's chief law-enforcement officer, responsible for patrol, corrections, coroner services, and public administration, with a department budget of roughly $1.2B. Incumbent Shannon Dicus, appointed in July 2021 and elected with 74.3% in 2022, faces retired sergeant Joe Silva.
Shannon Dicus Nonpartisan Age ~59 Incumbent Favorite
San Bernardino County Sheriff (appointed 2021, elected 2022) • Hesperia
Appointed Sheriff in July 2021 after the previous sheriff resigned and elected with 74.3% in June 2022. Has spent 34 years with the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department (hired 1991), holding every rank from Deputy to Undersheriff across Corrections, Patrol (Barstow, Apple Valley, Victorville), Narcotics, SWAT, Criminal Intelligence, and Internal Affairs. Served in the U.S. Army, 101st Airborne Division, as an MP at Fort Campbell and in Sinai, Egypt. Holds a BA in Criminal Justice from CSUSB and an MA in Communications from California Baptist University. Has focused his tenure on proactive policing, technology modernization, and workforce expansion.
Top Issues / Platform
- Proactive policing & organized crime: Operations Consequences and Hammer Strike — 2,200+ felony arrests, 250+ lbs of fentanyl seized, thousands of firearms removed; focus on cartel-driven illegal marijuana grows and organized retail theft
- Technology & modernization: Countywide body-worn cameras, AI for report-writing, drones as first responders, real-time intelligence, and a new dispatch center
- Workforce growth & morale: Grew the department by ~400 personnel; secured ~$300M in ongoing investments; salaries competitive with LA and Riverside counties
- Substance use & behavioral health: Expand treatment facilities and alternatives to incarceration; Operation Shelter Me for homelessness
- Immigration enforcement: Supports the 287(g) program for coordination on serious and violent criminals
Key Endorsements
- San Bernardino Sun editorial board (May 13, 2026)
- Sheriff's Employees' Benefit Association (SEBA) — deputies' union
- Redlands Police Officers Association
- Teamsters
Read on the race
- Strengths: 34 years at every rank; a 74.3% mandate in 2022; a modernization record (body cameras, AI, drones, a new dispatch center); union endorsements showing rank-and-file support; and a department that grew by 400+ personnel.
- Weaknesses: Silva's campaign claims a "vote of no confidence" among some deputies; his wife serves as a Deputy Chief, raising conflict-of-interest questions; his $1.2B budget management has been questioned; and his 287(g) stance may alienate some voters.
Joe Silva Nonpartisan Age 61 Challenger
Retired SBCSD Sergeant • Bloomington
A retired San Bernardino County Sheriff's Sergeant (29 years, 1988–2018) and retired CA DMV investigator (2024). Served in patrol, narcotics, and SWAT, commanding over 400 deputies and detectives. Spent 13 years in the U.S. Air Force (1983–1996). Holds AA degrees from the Community College of the Air Force and San Bernardino Valley College. Says he was asked by 75% of deputies to run against Dicus. Married to Patty (a former SBCSD deputy) for 30 years. Serves on the Bloomington Municipal Advisory Committee.
Top Issues / Platform
- Staffing & deputy shortages: Claims stations have as few as three deputies per shift; wants more deputies on patrol and blames low morale
- Budget reform: Says sheriff's spending is wasteful; wants to reduce his own salary as sheriff
- Morale & trust: Says deputies don't trust Dicus and avoid calls fearing internal-affairs investigations
- Community partnership: More community events and town halls; runs a Bloomington food bank serving 100+ families every two weeks
- Conflict of interest: Claims Dicus's wife serving as Deputy Chief creates a conflict and that Dicus's compensation is excessive
Key Endorsements
- Claims grassroots deputy support (the official union, SEBA, endorsed Dicus instead)
Read on the race
- Strengths: 29 years in the same department; 13 years of military service that appeals to voters; specific, relatable examples of waste; and a personal story as a Mexican/Filipino-American that connects with diverse communities.
- Weaknesses: No active campaign website or visible infrastructure; lost the official deputies'-union endorsement; a retired sergeant challenging a sitting sheriff; unverifiable claims of 75% deputy support; and limited fundraising.
Superintendent of Schools Open seat • 4 candidates
The office: An open seat, as incumbent Ted Alejandre is retiring. The County Superintendent oversees 33 school districts and ~400,000 students, providing fiscal oversight, alternative education, special-education services, and court schools, and serves as the intermediary between the California Department of Education and local districts. Four candidates filed: Cali Binks, Ray Anthony Culberson, Ken Larson, and Alex Vara. If no one wins a majority, the top two advance to November.
Cali Binks Nonpartisan Age 60 Frontrunner
Superintendent, Yucaipa-Calimesa Joint Unified School District • Yucaipa
A first-generation college graduate, the daughter of a U.S. Army veteran, and the sister of a man with special needs who inspired her focus on special education. Has served 17 years as a school superintendent across two districts and previously spent 23 years in Fontana Unified as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, director, assistant superintendent, and deputy superintendent. Holds a BA in Human Development from UC Riverside (1989) and an MA in Special Education from Azusa Pacific University (2010). Endorsed by retiring County Superintendent Ted Alejandre.
Top Issues / Platform
- Support students: Expand early learning, college and career pathways, early literacy (reading by 3rd grade)
- Engage families: Partner with families as active participants; improve transparency and communication
- Empower educators: Provide tools, resources, and training; ensure safe, engaging classrooms
- Connect communities: Build collaboration between districts and business/industry partners
- Fiscal responsibility: Ensure resources reach classrooms
Key Endorsements
- Ted Alejandre — retiring County Superintendent
- San Bernardino County Coalition of CTA Presidents
- Sheriff Shannon Dicus & DA Jason Anderson
- Teamsters Local 1932, Western State Carpenters Union Local 909
- Former Riverside County Superintendent Dr. Judy D. White; former SB County Superintendent Dr. Herb Fischer
Read on the race
- Strengths: 17 years as a superintendent — the most directly relevant experience in the race; the retiring superintendent's endorsement; deep special-education expertise; and broad support from both law enforcement and teachers' unions.
- Weaknesses: As the "establishment" candidate, vulnerable to outsider/anti-incumbent sentiment; some may see her as more of the same; less name recognition outside the Yucaipa-Calimesa area.
Ray Anthony Culberson Nonpartisan Age 65 Challenger
Chief Impact Officer / Advisory Superintendent; Founder of eHigh Charter Schools • San Bernardino
Grew up in public housing, was homeless, and watched his best friend killed beside him. Has 33 years in education and 42 years in business. Holds two BAs from UC Berkeley (1983), an MBA from Cal State LA (1994), an MPA from Cal State San Bernardino (1999), and an MEd in Educational Administration; also attended law school. Served as a teacher, dean, principal, director, and superintendent, and founded Entrepreneur High Schools (charter schools). Does not solicit endorsements — stating, "My obligation is to the students. I can't be bought."
Top Issues / Platform
- Graduation vs. proficiency gap: End celebrating high grad rates (86.2%) while proficiency lags (28% in math); wants AI-powered auditing of LCAP spending
- Equality vs. equity: Argues equity dollars are spent without accountability; wants merit-based advancement
- Vocational education: Expand CTE, trades, and union partnerships
- Protecting students: Independent panels and mandatory termination for superintendents who fail to protect students
- Classroom discipline: AI-powered behavioral tools and stronger consequences for misbehavior
Key Endorsements
Does not solicit endorsements — states he can't be bought and won't sell the office.
Read on the race
- Strengths: A unique combination of education leadership (33 years) and business experience (42 years); a powerful personal story; specific, data-driven proposals; and an anti-establishment message that may resonate.
- Weaknesses: A charter-school background that may be controversial with teachers' unions; outsider positioning with limited institutional support; less directly relevant superintendent experience than Binks; and no traditional endorsements to drive turnout.
No photo available
Ken Larson Nonpartisan Challenger
Former Member, San Bernardino County Board of Education (Area A) • Victor Valley / High Desert
Served on the San Bernardino County Board of Education representing Area A from 2019 to 2022 and was defeated for re-election. Previously served on the Victor Valley Union High School District board from 2006 to 2010. Ran for County Superintendent in 2022 and lost to Ted Alejandre (34.9% to 65.1%). Has run and lost multiple school-board campaigns. No campaign website found for 2026; limited public platform available.
Top Issues / Platform
- Fiscal accountability in school spending
- Parental rights in education
- Limited public information available for 2026
Key Endorsements
None identified.
Read on the race
- Strengths: Has served on both a county board of education and a local school board; has run for this office before, so has some name recognition in education circles.
- Weaknesses: No campaign website or visible infrastructure for 2026; lost the 2022 race by a wide margin and was defeated for re-election to the county board in 2022; very limited platform and outreach; unlikely to be competitive in a four-candidate field.
Alex Vara Nonpartisan Challenger
Assistant Principal, Rialto Adult Education; Lecturer, CSUSB; Former Redlands Unified School Board Member • Rialto
Has spent 34 years in Rialto USD as an aide, teacher, and elementary/middle/high-school/continuation/independent-study principal. Currently Assistant Principal at Rialto Adult Education and a Lecturer at CSUSB. Served on the Redlands Unified Board of Education (Area 4) from 2016 to 2024, losing re-election by ~200 votes in 2024. Also served on the Colton Redlands Yucaipa Regional Occupational Board (4 years) and the CIF State Board (6 years). Holds a BA in Political Science from CSUSB (1995) and an MEd in Educational Leadership from CSUSB (1999).
Top Issues / Platform
- School-to-prison pipeline: Stop funneling Black and Brown students into the criminal justice system; invest in programs supporting disenfranchised youth
- Disability justice & racial equity: Remove barriers to disability accommodations for Black and Hispanic children underdiagnosed for autism/ADHD
- Youth mental health: Hire more mental-health counselors; partner with local therapists and agencies
- Workers' rights & class size: Support educators; reduce class sizes; raise wages so educators can afford to live in the county
- Safe classrooms for all: Define safety broadly — belonging and mental-health support
Key Endorsements
- Previously endorsed by the San Bernardino County Democratic Party and the Redlands Teachers Association (2016)
- No formal endorsements listed for 2026
Read on the race
- Strengths: 34 years of hands-on classroom and school-leadership experience; university-level teaching; elected school-board experience; and a progressive platform that may appeal to Democratic voters.
- Weaknesses: Lost school-board re-election in 2024 by ~200 votes; less executive leadership experience than Binks or Culberson; a progressive platform that may limit appeal in more conservative parts of the county; and limited endorsements.
Read on the superintendent race: Cali Binks is the clear front-runner — the retiring superintendent's endorsement, teachers'-union and law-enforcement backing, and 17 years of superintendent experience. Ray Anthony Culberson runs as the anti-establishment, data-driven reformer. Alex Vara offers progressive education advocacy. Ken Larson has run before but has minimal visible campaign. If Binks fails to clear 50%+1, she would face the strongest remaining candidate in a November runoff.
Board of Supervisors — District 4 On the CA-31 ballot
The seat: District 4 covers Chino, Chino Hills, Montclair, Ontario, and Upland (~450,000 residents) — the San Bernardino County communities inside CA-31. The Board of Supervisors is the county's chief legislative and executive body, with authority over the county budget, land use, and public services. Incumbent Curt Hagman, first elected in 2014, faces attorney and former school-board president Christina Gagnier.
Curt Hagman Nonpartisan Age 61 Incumbent Favorite
Incumbent County Supervisor, District 4 (since 2014) • Chino Hills
A 12-year incumbent on the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors. Previously served in the California State Assembly (2008–2014, termed out), as a Chino Hills City Councilmember (2004–2007), and as Mayor of Chino Hills (2007–2008). Holds a BA in Psychology from UCLA. Currently chairs the IEHP Governing Board, is President of SCAG (Southern California Association of Governments), and is Vice President of the Ontario International Airport Authority. Also serves on the boards of South Coast AQMD, OmniTrans, and SBCTA. A Lt. Colonel in the California State Guard and President of CBS Holdings Group LLC. Elected unanimously as Board Chair twice.
Top Issues / Platform
- Homelessness: Point-in-Time Count showed homelessness fell for a second straight year in San Bernardino County (April 2026)
- Healthcare access: Chair of the IEHP Governing Board, serving 1.4M+ members
- Transportation & infrastructure: President of SCAG; boards of OmniTrans, SBCTA, and the Ontario Airport Authority
- Economic development: Ontario Airport growth, logistics, and regional job creation
- Public safety & veterans: Partners with County Veterans Affairs; serves as Lt. Colonel in the CA State Guard
Key Endorsements
- Reform California (conservative advocacy group)
Read on the race
- Strengths: 12 years as a supervisor with deep institutional knowledge; extensive regional leadership (SCAG President, IEHP Chair, Airport Authority VP); six years of State Assembly experience; a record of delivering on transportation, healthcare, and economic development; and past wins over competitive challengers (Connie Leyva in 2022).
- Weaknesses: A 12-year tenure invites "time for a change" messaging; calls to secede from California may alienate moderates; growing Democratic registration; and anti-warehouse sentiment could cut against his logistics-focused record.
Christina Gagnier Nonpartisan Age 44 Challenger
Small Business Owner / Attorney / Former Chino Valley USD Board President • Ontario
A partner at Gagnier Margossian LLP and a lecturer at UC Irvine Law School. Served on the Chino Valley Unified School District Governing Board from 2018 to 2022, including as Board President. Ran for U.S. House CA-35 in 2014 (lost the general). Grew up in Chino Valley; worked multiple jobs through college, graduating from UC Irvine (BA Political Science & Sociology), the University of San Francisco (JD), and USC (MPA). Started her own law firm with $60 after the 2008 recession. Appointed to the FCC Consumer Advisory Committee under President Obama and served on the California Attorney General's Cyber Exploitation Task Force. Founded Our Schools USA (2023), a pro-public-education advocacy organization.
Top Issues / Platform
- Affordable living & good jobs: Attract high-wage industries, support small businesses, and invest in workforce development
- Balanced economic development: Move beyond a warehouse-centric logistics economy using data standards (traffic, air quality, job quality); attract advanced manufacturing, clean energy, and tech
- Anti-corruption & transparency: Public dashboards for county performance and greater data accessibility
- Immigrant & civil rights: Oppose aggressive ICE enforcement; protect access to hospitals, schools, and churches
- Public education & workforce: Expand career/technical programs and support unions
Key Endorsements
- San Bernardino County Democratic Party
- Planned Parenthood of Orange and San Bernardino Counties' Community Action Fund
- Inland Empire United
- Congressman Dave Min
Read on the race
- Strengths: Strong academic credentials (BA, JD, MPA); elected school-board experience including as president; technology-law and cyber-policy expertise; Democratic Party and Planned Parenthood endorsements; and small-business ownership.
- Weaknesses: Lost her prior congressional race (2014); needs to introduce herself countywide; faces a well-funded, long-serving incumbent with deep institutional ties; and her "anti-MAGA" messaging may not resonate everywhere.
Board of Supervisors — District 2 Incumbent vs. two challengers
The seat: District 2 covers Fontana, parts of Rancho Cucamonga, and unincorporated areas of the county. Incumbent Jesse Armendarez III, first elected in 2022, faces two challengers — Fontana City Councilmember Jesus Sandoval and first-time candidate Joe Alvanez. If no candidate wins a majority, the top two advance to November.
Jesse Armendarez III Nonpartisan Incumbent Favorite
Incumbent Supervisor, District 2 (since Jan 2023) • Fontana
The incumbent District 2 Supervisor, first elected in 2022. Born and raised in Fontana and a graduate of A.B. Miller High School. First job was pressure-washing trucks at 16; apprenticed as a licensed mechanic and started his own small business. Works as a Realtor — named one of the "Top 250 Hispanic Realtors" by the National Association of Hispanic Realtors. Previously served on the Fontana City Council (2016–2020, including Mayor Pro Tem), the Fontana USD Board (2014–2017), and the Fontana Planning Commission. Director of the Chaffee College Foundation and chair of the IE Utilities Agency Policy Committee. Married with four children.
Top Issues / Platform (Based on Record)
- Homelessness: Secured $10M for homeless-housing projects (2024), including $5M for the Water of Life Homeless Resource Center and $5M for the Fontana Homeless Prevention Center
- Mental health: Budget investments of $376.3M for county mental-health services
- Public safety: $41M for sheriff/community safety
- Infrastructure: $32.8M for sewer and roads; fire-hydrant retrofits
- Economic development: ~$3M for economic development and $20M for parks and community services
Key Endorsements
- Reform California
- Inland Empire Labor Council, AFL-CIO
- San Bernardino County Republican Party
Read on the race
- Strengths: A proven record of delivering funding for District 2; broad experience across city council, school board, and county; a labor-and-Republican coalition; and a real-estate and small-business background that reflects the district.
- Weaknesses: Republican alignment in a district with significant Democratic registration; no college degree; vulnerable to "county establishment" framing; and anti-warehouse sentiment in Fontana. Two challengers could split the anti-incumbent vote.
Jesus "Jesse" Sandoval Nonpartisan Challenger
Fontana City Councilmember, District 3 (since 2012) • Fontana
Has represented Fontana City Council District 3 since 2012, re-elected in 2016, 2020, and 2024. A resident of Fontana since 1967. Worked 20 years at Fontana USD (non-teaching) and retired after 17 years with the City of San Bernardino. Helped establish the PTSA at Sequoia Middle School and sponsors an annual Veterans Day essay contest. Serves on the League of California Cities Community Services Policy Committee (since 2016) and the California Contract Cities Association Legislative Committee (appointed 2024). Married 35 years to Mary Sandoval (a Fontana USD Board member), with three children and five grandchildren.
Top Issues / Platform
- Public safety: Neighborhood safety through improved emergency services and law-enforcement support
- Economic growth: Small-business support, workforce development, streamlining city programs
- Healthcare access: Expanding health access, community centers, and reliable transportation
- Preventing homelessness: Anti-homelessness initiatives
- Responsible growth: Opposes unchecked warehouse expansion
Key Endorsements
- Planned Parenthood of Orange and San Bernardino Counties' Community Action Fund
- San Bernardino County Democratic Party
Read on the race
- Strengths: 14 years on the Fontana City Council; a proven anti-warehouse record; Democratic Party and Planned Parenthood endorsements; and deep community roots.
- Weaknesses: Lost a 2017 bid for Fontana Mayor; running against an incumbent with more countywide name recognition; city-council experience is local; and he may struggle to differentiate from Alvanez with progressive voters.
No photo available
Joe Alvanez Nonpartisan Challenger
IT Professional / Insurance Agency Owner • Fontana
A first-time candidate for elected office. Works as an IT professional and operates Joseph Alvanez Insurance, a life- and health-insurance agency based in Fontana. No previous elected experience. Running on a progressive platform focused on housing affordability, public-education funding, ICE policy reform, environmental protections, and anti-warehouse development. Endorsed by the Inland Empire DSA (Democratic Socialists of America) and listed on Good Party, an anti-corruption independent platform.
Top Issues / Platform
- Housing affordability & homelessness: Redirect county resources to truly affordable housing; demand transparency on development subsidies; protect renters
- Public schools: Increase funding, smaller class sizes, competitive teacher pay; expand early childhood and vocational training
- Public safety & ICE policy: Support police and fire; community-based crime prevention; limit cooperation with ICE to the legal minimum
- Environment & anti-warehouse: Renewable energy, green space, public transit; block unchecked warehouse and data-center expansion
- Local economy & infrastructure: Small-business support, job training, road/bridge/broadband upgrades
Key Endorsements
- Inland Empire DSA (Democratic Socialists of America)
- Good Party (anti-corruption independent platform)
Read on the race
- Strengths: A clear progressive platform appealing to the Democratic base; an anti-warehouse position that aligns with community concerns; a strong stance on limiting ICE cooperation; and a technology background.
- Weaknesses: First-time candidate with no elected experience or traditional infrastructure; the Democratic Socialist label may limit broad appeal; and limited endorsements compared with institutional candidates.
Bottom line: San Bernardino County's down-ballot races are a mix of entrenched incumbents and energized challengers. The Auditor-Controller contest is the most volatile — an ethics investigation hangs over incumbent Ensen Mason, while Ryan Hutchison holds a large fundraising edge and all five supervisors' endorsements. The Sheriff and Supervisor District 4 races favor the well-funded incumbents, though both challengers are running on change. The open Superintendent of Schools seat is Cali Binks's to lose. Riverside County's headline down-ballot contest is the open Superior Court Office No. 10, where Michelle Paradise is the front-runner.
Sources
- Ballotpedia — Riverside County, California elections, 2026 and San Bernardino County, California elections, 2026
- The Press-Enterprise — Riverside County candidate questionnaires and judicial-race coverage (May 2026)
- San Bernardino Sun — county candidate questionnaires, profiles, and endorsements (May 2026)
- Riverside County Registrar of Voters (voteinfo.net) and San Bernardino County Registrar of Voters
- Inland Empire Law Weekly — judicial candidate interview transcripts
- Official county registrars' certified list of qualified candidates (2026)