In a recent discussion, I spoke with Fullerton City Council Member Ahmad Zahra about his role and responsibilities. We engaged in a Q&A session that delved into the challenges and rewards of serving the community at the municipal level. This is a three-part series.
Q: What advice do you have for your successor on standing up to influential donors?
Zahra: You have to believe in the power of the community and know they have your back. Don’t be afraid. I faced significant attacks from special interests, but I prevailed in both my elections while they failed. When you support the community’s needs, the community supports you.
When criticism is valid—about trash pickup or neighborhood concerns—you address it directly. That can turn frustration into support. But politically motivated attacks are different. Those require wisdom and thick skin. Ultimately, you must have the courage to do the right thing.
Q: What campaign finance reforms could reduce the dominance of big donors?
Zahra: Donation caps exist at the state and city levels, but donors can bypass them through political action committees (PACs), especially after the Citizens United Supreme Court decision. PACs can raise unlimited funds. So while a community-focused candidate is limited, their opponent might benefit from massive independent spending.
My advice to voters: follow the money. Ask who is funding PACs and campaigns. Are these groups or individuals with financial interests that conflict with community interests?
At the local level, we can strengthen transparency by requiring more frequent financial disclosures. We also have conflict-of-interest laws requiring elected officials to recuse themselves if they received more than $250 from a donor during their campaign—but there’s a loophole allowing candidates to return the money just before a vote and participate anyway. A willing council could close these loopholes.
Heavy spending doesn’t guarantee victory. In my last reelection, more money was spent against me than for me—and I still won. Elections are about rallying genuine support.
Q: Are you in favor of ranked choice voting?
Zahra: I haven’t experienced ranked choice voting personally, so I can’t firmly support or oppose it. Any system can be manipulated. What matters most is ensuring voters can easily vet candidates and their financial backers and that we curb unethical PAC practices.
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