SAN BERNARDINO, CA – As the June primary approaches, the League of Women Voters San Bernardino Area, in collaboration with San Bernardino Valley College, announces a two-night nonpartisan Candidate Forum. Scheduled for April 29 and April 30, 2026, at the historic San Bernardino Valley College Greek Theater from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM each evening.
“This forum serves as a cornerstone of local democracy, providing a neutral platform for residents to hear directly from the individuals seeking to lead the city. In an era of rapid change for the Inland Empire, this event offers voters the unique opportunity to move beyond campaign literature and engage with the substantive platforms of those running for Mayor and City Council seats in Wards 1, 2, and 4,” said Professor Kathryn Ervin, President of the League of Women Voters San Bernardino. “
A Two-Night Deep Dive into City Leadership. The forum is strategically split over two nights to ensure comprehensive coverage of the races:
- Wednesday, April 29: Focus will be on Ward 1 and Ward 2. Candidates invited to participate in Ward 1 include Ron Alvarado, Ethan Flores, Virginia Marquez, incumbent Theodore Sanchez, and Omar Williams, while in Ward 2, they are Benito Barrios, incumbent Sandra Ibarra, and Christian Shaunessy.
- Thursday, April 30: The spotlight shifts to Ward 4 and the Mayoral race. Participants include Ward 4 candidates Thomas Castillo, Vincent Laster, Erick Marquez, Jesus Medina, Joseph Salas, and incumbent Fred Shorett. The evening will culminate in a forum with the Mayoral candidates, including Arthur Anderson, Rick Avila, Ivan Garcia, Amy Malone, incumbent Helen Tran, John Valdivia, and Lata Wilson.
The League of Women Voters and San Bernardino Valley College remain deeply committed to fostering civic engagement. By hosting this event, the college provides a space where education and community action intersect.
Professor Twillea Evans-Carthen of the League of Women Voters emphasized the weight of this event, stating, “This forum offers voters the chance to compare candidate positions on key issues within their ward and city, empowering informed decisions ahead of the June 2, 2026, primary election.”
With the voter registration deadline of May 18, 2026, rapidly approaching, the League views these forums as a vital “final look” for the public.
“We encourage all eligible voters to attend and exercise their right to vote,” said Ervin. “Informed participation is the only way to ensure our government reflects the will of the people.”
The event is free and open to all members of the public. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure seating in the Greek Theater.
