Progressives Oust Long-Term Incumbents in Inland Empire Elections
Voters across California's Inland Empire removed several long-term incumbents and rejected conservative school board candidates in a shift toward younger, progressive leadership.
Local elections across California's Inland Empire resulted in a significant shift toward younger, progressive candidates and the removal of several long-term incumbents. In Ontario, Daisy Macias defeated Mayor Paul Leon, who had held the office for 21 years. Similarly, Luz Perez defeated longtime council member John Roberts in Fontana, while other incumbents suffered losses in San Bernardino and Pomona.
Beyond city councils, voters rejected Christian conservative candidates on school boards in the Chino Valley, Redlands, and Temecula districts. This trend suggests a regional backlash against culture-war policies, specifically book bans. While some incumbents in Chino and Redlands retained their seats, the elections produced other historic milestones. Lynne Kennedy led the race to potentially become the first female mayor of Rancho Cucamonga.
In Norco, the election for council member Kevin Bash was canceled because he faced no opposition, a first for the city since 1964. As of November 7, 2026, official results remain pending in some areas, as significant numbers of ballots are still being counted in San Bernardino and Riverside counties.
