Endorsements
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Endorsements -
Endorsements help voters understand which candidates, measures, and campaigns align with the values of transparency, accountability, good governance, and evidence-based policy.
Fullerton Transparency’s endorsements are based on a candidate’s record, public statements, policy positions, and willingness to engage honestly with local issues. The goal is not to support a political party or faction, but to help residents identify leaders who take local government seriously, respect the public’s right to know, and make decisions grounded in facts rather than political convenience.
These endorsements reflect my own analysis and judgment after reviewing public records, policy decisions, campaign materials, public comments, and the broader context surrounding each race or issue. They are intended to give voters a clearer understanding of what is at stake and why these choices matter for Fullerton’s future.
Orange County Supervisor
Traut For County Supervisor District 4
Fullerton Transparency endorses Connor Traut for Orange County Supervisor because he is the strongest candidate to represent North Orange County on housing, homelessness, public services, infrastructure, and good governance.
Traut’s record in Buena Park shows a serious approach to local government: building regional homelessness solutions, supporting housing and tenant protections, investing in parks and public safety, and focusing on the practical responsibilities of municipal government.
Fullerton needs a Supervisor who understands how local decisions affect residents’ daily lives. Connor Traut is the best choice for District 4.
Why Jung Is The Wrong Choice For Supervisor
Fiscal Irresponsibility: Fullerton faces a $13.77 million deficit with the poorest roads in the county. Despite Jung being mayor for 4 of the past 5 years, he has been unable to lead his fellow councilmembers in solving this dire fiscal situation.
Volatility: Jung’s policy decisions have been destabilizing. In a 3-2 vote, he chose to fire former City Manager Ken Domer without cause. The City was forced to pay Domer 9 months of severance, while shuffling through 4 City Managers in a year. This led to mass staff resignations, disarray, and a case from CalPERS that is still ongoing.
Influence & Political Networks: Jung’s decisions as they relate to his campaign donors have raised concerns about whose interests are prioritized. He appointed major campaign contributor, Tony Bushala, to the Fiscal Committee to advise on the City budget. He made unpopular decisions related to trails, pedestrian plazas, and small businesses; all decisions that benefited Bushala’s personal holdings.
City Council
Shana Charles for City Council District 3
Fullerton Transparency endorses Shana Charles for Fullerton City Council District 3 because she brings a strong understanding of policy, a clear commitment to community engagement, and a serious approach to local governance.
Charles has been a consistent advocate for public spaces, safer streets, and quality-of-life improvements in Fullerton. She has supported efforts to preserve the Walk on Wilshire, advance the Union Pacific Trail, and improve safety along Fullerton’s streets.
Charles is currently serving in a minority position on several major council debates, with Mayor Fred Jung, Mayor Pro Tem Nick Dunlap, and Councilmember Jamie Valencia often forming the governing majority. That makes her continued presence on the Council especially important for residents who want thoughtful questioning, public engagement, and a stronger check on major decisions.
Fullerton Transparency recommends Shana Charles for Fullerton City Council District 3.
Jozef Maldonado for City Council District 5
Fullerton Transparency endorses Jozef Maldonado for Fullerton City Council District 5. Maldonado brings a strong background in science, public service, and local civic engagement. A UC Davis chemistry graduate and current Chair of Fullerton’s Parks and Recreation Commission, Maldonado has already shown a willingness to do the practical, often overlooked work of local government.
His campaign priorities; safer neighborhoods, improved parks, and a stronger downtown that supports small businesses, are directly connected to the quality-of-life issues District 5 residents experience every day. Maldonado is also endorsed by Councilmembers Ahmad Zahra and Shana Charles, reflecting support from councilmembers who have prioritized community engagement, transparency, and thoughtful governance.
Fullerton needs councilmembers who are prepared, engaged, and focused on the basic responsibilities of city government. Jozef Maldonado is the best choice for District 5.
Why Oscar Valadez is Wrong for District 5
Poor Judgment: As a Fullerton Planning Commissioner, Valadez supported controversial land-use decisions that raise questions about how carefully he applies city rules and legal standards. He voted to approve a gas station project that conflicted with Fullerton’s municipal code, and he also voted to deny a Builder’s Remedy project despite staff warnings that the findings did not meet the legal threshold required for denial
Misleading Ballot: Valadez ran for this seat in 2022. During that race, he was challenged on his ballot designation where he claimed to be a Superintendent and a County Commissioner. A judge ordered him to strike these titles as they were misleading to the public. Valadez works in construction and had not served as a county commissioner.
Bushala-Backed: Valadez has received support from Tony Bushala, a major local landlord, donor, and political player who has also supported all members of the current Council majority. Electing Valadez would likely expand that governing bloc and further reduce independent scrutiny on the Council.
District 5 deserves a councilmember who will apply the law carefully, be transparent with voters, and provide independent judgment on major city decisions. Valadez’s record does not meet that standard.