As the June 2 primary inches closer, voters might notice that some candidates on Santa Cruz County ballots have their affiliation listed as “no party preference.” For some, it’s because of their past professional experience, while for others, it’s to steer as clear as possible of party politics.
Election 2026
Coverage of local, statewide and national elections in 2026.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Candidates filed their final pre-election campaign finance disclosures before the June 2 primary. Here’s what they show.
Thursday was the deadline for candidates in the Santa Cruz mayoral and city council races, as well as the District 4 county supervisor and Superior Court judge seats, to file their final pre-election campaign finance disclosures before the June 2 primary.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
State political practices commission investigating Ryan Coonerty for alleged failure in filing statements of economic interests
The California Fair Political Practices Commission is investigating Santa Cruz mayoral candidate Ryan Coonerty for allegedly failing to file statements of economic interests, associated with his adviser role at the City of San Jose Mayor’s Office. Coonerty said the issue goes back to an error at the San Jose city clerk’s office and has since been resolved.
Posted inOpinion from Community Voices
A Lookout View: Renee Golder for Santa Cruz City Council District 6
Local government works best when experience, relationships and institutional knowledge are already in place on Day 1. In the race for Santa Cruz City Council District 6, Renee Golder offers that readiness in a way that stands out, the Lookout Editorial Board writes in its endorsement.
Posted inOpinion from Community Voices
A Lookout View: Our June 2 endorsements
The Lookout Editorial Board writes endorsements because we believe a strong, trustworthy, independent and nonpartisan local news organization owes its community a stand-back, whole view of the candidates before us, based on extensive one-on-one interviews. And, on your behalf, we look for four factors in making our recommendations: voting and other decision-making records, experience, judgment and political skills – and how the candidacy meets the moment.
Posted inOpinion from Community Voices
A Lookout View: Scott Newsome for Santa Cruz City Council District 4
Santa Cruz City Council’s District 4 race offers voters a choice between two candidates who reflect different strengths – and different limitations. In the end, the Lookout Editorial Board gives a light endorsement to Scott Newsome over Hector Marin.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Insurance commissioner candidates float bigger California role
From a public wildfire authority to a state backstop, California insurance regulator candidates propose greater state involvement.
Posted inOpinion from Community Voices
A Lookout View: Bryan Hackett for Santa Cruz County Superior Court judge
The role of a Santa Cruz County Superior Court judge demands more than legal knowledge – it requires fairness, sound judgment and a steady commitment to applying the law without bias or outside influence. The Lookout Editorial Board believes Bryan Hackett brings the kind of deep legal experience and courtroom familiarity that is essential for that responsibility.
Posted inOpinion from Community Voices
A Lookout View: Ryan Coonerty for Santa Cruz mayor
The Lookout Editorial Board endorses Ryan Coonerty for mayor of Santa Cruz. The mayor’s race will help usher in the next Santa Cruz – shaped by new housing mandates, changing expectations around public space and ongoing decisions about how our community grows while holding on to what makes us special, the board writes. Coonerty is the candidate best prepared to help guide that transition.
Posted inOpinion from Community Voices
A Lookout View: Tony Nuñez for District 4 Santa Cruz County supervisor
Santa Cruz’s South County is facing a moment when residents are asking for more than routine governance – they are asking for leadership that is present, prepared and accountable in a direct way. In this race for District 4 county supervisor, Tony Nuñez stands out to the Lookout Editorial Board as the candidate offering a clear break from business-as-usual politics and a stronger focus on engagement, responsiveness and long-term community vitality.
