Candidate forum May 7 2026
From left, Lookout moderator Jody K. Biehl and Santa Cruz mayoral candidates Ami Chen Mills, Joy Schendledecker, Chris Krohn, Gillian Greensite and Ryan Coonerty during a May 7 forum. Credit: Kevin Painchaud / Lookout Santa Cruz

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In the current Santa Cruz mayoral contest, four candidates who appear broadly aligned politically seem to be pursuing a coordinated strategy: collectively prevent Ryan Coonerty from winning outright in the primary, then consolidate behind whichever of them advances to a November run-off.

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