Campaign Launches with Strong Community Support

PRESS RELEASE – Surrounded by community leaders and supporters, Benjamin Ortiz officially launched his campaign for Santa Maria City Council District 2 at Atkinson Park on Friday, July 19th. The event marked the beginning of a campaign focused on community involvement and proactive governance.

He was joined by a distinguished group of supporters, including Santa Maria City Council Mayor Pro-Tem Gloria Soto, Santa Maria Joint Union High School Board Member Alma Hernandez, Guadalupe City Council Member Christina Hernandez, Buellton Vice-Mayor David Silva, former City Council Member Terri Zuniga, former Lompoc Mayor Joyce Howerton, and representatives from the Santa Maria Fire Union Local 2020 and the Democratic Club of Santa Maria Valley.

Alma Hernandez praised Ortiz's commitment to the community, stating, "Benjamin Ortiz's strong dedication to our community, forward-thinking, and inclusive leadership make him the perfect candidate to address our critical issues and lead us toward a brighter, more equitable future for all."

Guadalupe City Council Member Christina Hernandez echoed this sentiment, adding, "Benjamin understands the importance of building trust and putting community first. He is committed to creating change while working alongside our local nonprofits, working families, and city employees."

Among those present included former Santa Maria City Councilmember Terri Zuniga who shared her strong support by saying, “Benjamin is a candidate who has the vision, desire, and passion to address the challenges facing the city. He is uniquely situated to make a significant change on the dias and the community at large...If you, like me, care about Santa Maria, if you want to have an impact on the future of Santa Maria, if you want to assure your voice is heard, Benjamin Ortiz is your candidate.”

In his speech, Benjamin Ortiz highlighted the importance of addressing the needs of all residents, emphasizing that inclusive policies benefit the entire community. "Our city works well for some, but it could work better for all of us," said Ortiz. "We stand here today because we believe in a vision of Santa Maria where every resident has the opportunity to thrive." By focusing on inclusive policies and community-driven solutions, we can create a Santa Maria that works for all its residents.

Ortiz also underscored his commitment to improving accessibility and housing affordability, supporting the local workforce, fostering local businesses, and ensuring public safety. His campaign promises to prioritize the needs of all residents, especially those who have been historically marginalized or underserved.

Santa Maria City Council Mayor Pro-Tem Gloria Soto expressed her strong support for Ortiz's campaign, highlighting his dedication to public service and his ability to bring people together. "Benjamin's campaign is built on the principles of community engagement and participation. He believes that the best solutions come from working together and listening to the voices of all residents," Soto remarked.

Benjamin Ortiz has also received endorsements from:

• Santa Barbara County Democratic Party
• Santa Maria Firefighters Union Local 2020
• Central Coast Labor Council
• Democratic Club of Santa Maria Valley
• Santa Maria City Council Mayor Pro-Tem Gloria Soto
• Guadalupe City Council Member Christina Hernandez
• Santa Maria Joint Union High School Board Member Alma Hernandez
• Buellton Vice-mayor David Silva
• Former City Council Member Terri Zuniga
• Former Lompoc Mayor Joyce Howerton
• Former Santa Maria City Councilmember Hilda Zacarias

The launch event at Atkinson Park was a testament to the broad support for Ortiz's vision for Santa Maria. His campaign aims to involve the community at every step, ensuring that the city's growth and development reflect the needs and aspirations of its people.

For more information about Benjamin Ortiz's campaign and to get involved, please visit benjaminortiz.org or follow the campaign on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok at @ortizplz.