Our 2026 Primary Endorsements
The Democratic Party of Contra Costa County chose to endorse the following candidates and local measures. We hope this helps you when you go to vote. Ballots drop May 4th (perfect for the Resistance)!
Federal Positions
The local members of the California State Democratic Party (CADEM) makes these endorsements.
- U.S. House, District 8: John Garamendi
- U.S. House, District 9: Josh Harder
U.S. House, District 10: Mark DeSaulnier
State Offices
The California State Democratic Party (CADEM) makes these endorsements. The state party did not reach a consensus in the races for Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Treasurer, Insurance Commissioner, or Superintendent of Public Instruction.
- Secretary of State: Shirley Weber
- Attorney General: Rob Bonta
- Controller: Malia Cohen
- Board of Equalization Area 2: Sally Lieber
- Assembly District 11: Lori Wilson
- Assembly District 15: Anamarie Avila Farias
- Assembly District 16: Rebecca Bauer-Kahan
County Races
Clerk-Recorder:
KRISTIN CONNELLY
- Grew up in Martinez in a house her parents built themselves
- Nominated by Rep. George Miller to be his Congressional Page; met him on the House Floor as a Page
- B.A. in Political Science from UCLA, Masters in Public Policy at Georgetown, J.D. from Fordham Law School
Superintendent of Schools:
JAG LATHAN
A key policy: Grow hands-on learning, career technical education, and STEM opportunities
- Fan of documentaries, especially on history, politics, and health
- Enjoys hiking and biking for fun and relaxation (not competition!)
- B.S. in Kinesiology from SF State, Master’s in Special Education from National University, Master’s and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Mills College
County Assessor:
NICK SPINNER
A key policy: Modernize the Assessor’s operations and technology
- Eagle Scout with Troop 180 in Martinez
- Lifelong gamer; co-founded a small online gaming community
- Alum of Diablo Valley College; Graduate of College Park High School and Cal State East Bay
Board of Supervisors, District 1:
JOHN GIOIA
Board of Supervisors, District 4:
KEN CARLSON
West County Races
Richmond Mayor:
AHMAD ANDERSON
Richmond, District 2:
CESAR ZEPEDA
Richmond, District 4:
JAMIN PURSELL
A key policy: Modernize city systems, invest in infrastructure
Fun facts:
- Runs a swimwear company focused on bold, gender-inclusive designs
- Been with his husband, Kelly, for 21 years, and has lived in Richmond together for 16 of those years
- B.A. in Political Science and Philosophy
Measures
- B – Temp County Tax: Yes
- C – El Cerrito Library: Yes
- D – Pinole Elected Mayor: No stance
- G – College District Bond: Yes
- H – Lafayette Schools: Yes
- I – Moraga Schools: Yes
- L – Walnut Creek Schools: Yes