Voters have their work cut out for them this November as dozens of candidates are running for school board seats throughout Santa Clara County. In some districts, school board candidates are prioritizing the digital divide, staff retention, COVID-19 recovery and school safety. Potential board members are also highlighting fiscal responsibility as millions in funding flow into districts....
‘A boogeyman’: Why a former candidate is appearing on San Jose attack ads
It’s been four months since Sajid Khan’s name appeared on a ballot. Yet his face is popping up in campaign mailers across Silicon Valley. In many ways, he’s become the “boogeyman” this campaign season—his own words to describe the bizarre and hateful ads inundating voters weeks before Election Day. Khan, a deputy public defender who mounted an...
San Jose candidate criticized over approving pay raises
San Jose officials approved raises for some city staff—which they typically do annually—but it’s become a contentious campaign talking point. This week, the city council unanimously approved a 2.5% raise for council-appointed positions, including City Manager Jennifer Maguire, City Auditor Joe Rois, City Clerk Toni Taber, City Attorney Nora Frimann and Independent Police Auditor Shivaun Nurre....
Election 2022: Crowded field for Santa Clara County school boards
San Jose voters are facing a large pool of school board candidates on the November ballot, with contenders jostling for seats in crowded races. Once elected, school board candidates will juggle a host of critical issues, including COVID-19 recovery, access to early education, chronic absenteeism and staff shortages. Board members will be responsible for millions...
What you need to know to vote in San Jose
In less than three weeks, San Jose voters will head to the polls in a consequential election that will change the face of the city’s leadership. Here’s what you need to know to cast a vote. Come January, the 18th floor at San Jose City Hall with be home to either Santa Clara County Supervisor Cindy Chavez...
Ballot measure aims to make San Jose more inclusive
Changes may be coming to the composition of San Jose’s commissions, but that decision is in the hands of voters. Measure I, on the ballot for the Nov. 8 election, would amend the city charter. If passed, proponents believe it will make changes that allow the city to operate in a fair and ethical manner....
Polls show mixed results in San Jose mayor’s race
San Jose will pick a new mayor in less than a month, but which candidate has the edge to win depends on who you ask. Three new polls paint different pictures for the two candidates vying to replace Mayor Sam Liccardo, who terms out this year. In one poll, conducted between late August to early September, San Jose Councilmember...
Santa Clara candidates sound off on housing, economic growth
The 49ers’ political influence, a looming budget deficit and divisive politics are the hot topics this election cycle for Santa Clara. At a candidate forum hosted by San José Spotlight last week, those seeking office shared how they would address the city’s top problems. Six candidates are vying for three seats on the council. Councilmember...
Santa Clara County education candidates prioritize equity learning
Candidates vying for seats on the Santa Clara County Board of Education shared their priorities Thursday with a packed house. More than 500 students, parents and elected officials turned out for a candidate forum hosted by nonprofit Rocketship Public Schools, a charter school system within the county. Candidates addressed issues ranging from mental health support...
San Jose leaders condemn ‘racist’ mailer
The fight to represent downtown San Jose has taken an ugly turn, with a candidate in hot water over a mailer some are calling racist. Irene Smith, a white woman, sent out a campaign mailer this week showing a photo of her standing next to two white female councilmembers, with another photo of her opponent...