Running a self-funded campaign in today’s political climate is no easy task—especially with a budget of less than $3,000. As a candidate committed to community-driven leadership, I’ve encountered firsthand how difficult it is to challenge a system increasingly controlled by financial power and political agendas. Over the past two years, outside money has poured into Jurupa Valley elections, eroding the spirit of local democracy. Campaigns are no longer about merit, service, or leadership—they have become competitions between political factions backed by wealthy donors and PACs, each pushing their own interests.

Big Money vs. Grassroots Leadership

This election has highlighted how entrenched outside money has become in our city. Councilmember Guillermo “Willy” Silva’s campaign has already benefited from over $5,581 worth of mailers and phone banking paid for by the Moving California Forward PAC. Additionally, the PAC has another $25,000 to spend before Election Day, giving Silva a significant advantage in the race. On top of that, Silva’s campaign has raised $16,000 independently, giving him the financial muscle to saturate the airwaves and voter mailboxes.

Meanwhile, Save Jurupa Valley PAC, launched by Councilmember Armando Carmona, has raised $45,000 to strategically support candidates for the City Council, School Board, and Parks District. This level of financial influence shifts the focus of campaigns away from real leadership, making elections more about who can attract the most money rather than who has the best ideas for our community.

Adding to this wave of outside influence, another group, Jurupa Valley Citizens for Change, has emerged. Based in San Diego County, this opposition PAC has raised $20,000 to target candidates like Leslie Altamirano and Guillermo Silva. Their campaign tactics include sending out fear-based mailers and running digital ads that depict Jurupa Valley as a crime-infested wasteland—an image that is both misleading and damaging to our community’s reputation. Fearmongering like this not only distorts the truth but also undermines the hard work of residents and local organizations striving to make Jurupa Valley a safe, thriving place to live.

The Cost of Outsiders’ Influence on Local Elections

When PACs and external donors dominate our elections, candidates are forced to shift their focus from addressing local needs to fulfilling the interests of their financial backers. PACs often represent developers and lobbyists, whose goals may not align with the well-being of our community. This trend makes it difficult for grassroots leaders—those of us who genuinely care about Jurupa Valley—to gain traction, leaving voters with limited choices among candidates aligned with well-funded political machines.

We’ve already seen how zoning decisions, like the controversial development at 7586 Jurupa Road, have benefited investors more than residents. Now, with PACs like Save Jurupa Valley and Moving California Forward injecting tens of thousands of dollars into our elections, it’s clear that outside interests are working to control the future of our city.

Fighting for a Community-First Campaign

Despite these challenges, I remain committed to running a campaign grounded in principles—not money. With less than $3,000 to fund my efforts, I’ve relied on direct conversations with voters, door-to-door outreach, and community events to share my vision. This campaign is not about glossy mailers or social media ads—it’s about building trust, listening to residents, and offering real solutions for Jurupa Valley’s future.

My commitment is simple: I will serve the people of Jurupa Valley, not the interests of PACs or wealthy donors. Every decision I make will be based on what is best for our neighborhoods—not what benefits the highest bidder. This is the leadership our community deserves.

Reclaiming Democracy for the People

This election offers an opportunity to push back against the influence of money in politics. I encourage every voter to ask hard questions: Who is financing these campaigns? What do these donors expect in return? Are candidates accountable to the residents of Jurupa Valley, or are they beholden to outside interests?

Your vote is your voice. By supporting grassroots candidates, we can restore integrity to our elections and ensure that the future of Jurupa Valley is decided by those who live here—not by outsiders looking to control our community from afar.

Together, we can take back our elections and build a local government that reflects the values of the people. Let’s show that real leadership isn’t bought—it’s earned.