Levin: Release the Tammany Hall messages

San Jose’s residents have every right to demand integrity and accountability from those who hold public office.

Recent revelations about allegedly racist messages in an online chat involving Councilmember Peter Ortiz, Councilmember Domingo Candelas, former Councilmember Omar Torres and political consultant Brenda Zendejas have shaken public confidence.

For the sake of full transparency, while I do support San José Spotlight’s lawsuit against the city of San Jose on this matter, I should disclose that I make monthly contributions to Spotlight as I recognize the need for strong local journalism.

A city that celebrates its diversity cannot afford complacency in the face of such allegations. Whether the texts were sent in jest, frustration or genuine malice is irrelevant — language laced with racial disrespect from those in or around public service poisons the civic climate. San Jose’s leaders must show that prejudice in any form is incompatible with public trust.

Transparency is essential. The participants named in connection with the chat must come forward, acknowledge their roles and release the full content of these exchanges. Half‑measures and public relations spin will only deepen community skepticism. The people of San Jose deserve clear answers and genuine contrition where wrongdoing occurred.

If the texts prove authentic and if they reveal racial bias or contempt for the communities these figures were elected or hired to serve, each individual implicated should face real consequences, including resignation or professional accountability. The City Council and local party leaders must also reaffirm that racism, even behind closed screens, carries a public cost.

This controversy is not just about one chat. It is a test of San Jose’s character and the sincerity of its claim to be a city built on respect, equity and shared dignity. Leaders will show where they stand not by what they say in statements, but by what they do when their own integrity is on the line.

Just as I’ve been clamoring for the release of the Epstein files, I am making similar demands here in this case as well.

Release the files.

Jeffrey Levin is a former juror of the Santa Clara County Civil Grand Jury, a delegate to the California Democratic Party and serves on the Central Committee of the Santa Clara County Democratic Party.