We are at a critical juncture. In 2024, progressivism took a massive hit, shrouding the country in a conservatism that has trickled into Berkeley’s historically liberal bubble. On Nov. 3, Berkeley voters must show up and show out.
Our city’s leaders have signed a contract with Flock Safety, an AI-operated automated license plate reader company that threatens citizen safety more than promotes it. District 1 Councilmember Rashi Kesarwani has introduced bills to loosen restrictions on K-9’s, tear gas, drones and helicopters — some of which have passed, unnecessarily expanding police power. The Police Accountability Board’s director was fired. Budget cuts devastated social programs. Following a protracted legal battle, the city swept the Eighth and Harrison streets homeless encampment in September, displacing dozens of unhoused residents and leaving many in limbo.
Across the country, progressive candidates are campaigning vigorously to reclaim control of Congress and secure greater representation in state and local governments. As Election Day approaches, Berkeley voters must take a stand.
We in Berkeley face a unique obligation. Our city’s progressive legacy demands far more than complacency with the status quo. As voters, the choice we face on the ballot this year is simple: Do we keep faltering towards conservatism while championing progressivism in name, or do we look to leadership that can bring about meaningful change?
Every election, the Editorial Board meets with candidates, conducts extensive research and engages in long discussions to endorse candidates and ballot measures that a majority of the board believes will best serve the city of Berkeley.
Here’s who and what we endorse for the 2026 elections.
Editorials, including endorsements, represent solely the majority opinion of the student editorial board of The Daily Californian and not those of the University of California or any non-student party.
Lifelong Berkeley resident Daria Wrubel is running to be the next representative for District 1 on City Council, a seat that has been held by Rashi Kesarwani since November 2018. Rank Daria Wrubel No. 1.
The Editorial Board will endorse no District 8 candidate.
Considering Berkeley’s housing and affordability crisis, the city needs a slate dedicated to protecting the community.
After eight years of serving as Berkeley city auditor, Jenny Wong is ready to serve another four. Wong’s passion, experience and commitment to transparency make her the perfect candidate for the job.
Jennifer Shanoski has been a vital asset to the Berkeley Unified School District and will continue to be one. Vote Jennifer Shanoski for the Berkeley School board.
There are seven measures on the Berkeley ballot, all addressing a range of city issues; here are the Editorial Board’s decisions on the seven ballot measures.
The Editorial Board conducted extensive research and engaged in long discussions about the state propositions on California voters’ ballots this November. Here are the Editorial Board’s endorsements of California state propositions.