Two Fresno County supervisors appear to have been ousted by members of the Fresno City Council in the Nov. 5 election.
The latest results show District 2 Supervisor Steve Brandau has been defeated by Councilmember Garry Bredefeld. Supervisor Sal Quintero has been defeated by Councilmember Luis Chavez in District 3.
Bredefeld currently represents the City of Fresno’s 6th District. Bredefeld and Brandau are both Republicans, but the councilman represents a more traditional style of conservatism. Bredefeld has taken up culture war issues and criticized Brandau for not pushing back hard enough against COVID restrictions during the pandemic. He also spoke out against a local needle exchange program.
Chavez is the councilmember for District 5. Chavez was supported by the Democratic Party and labor groups, and had the edge in fundraising.
Brandau and Quintero’s losses highlight a powerful anti-incumbent sentiment among voters. Homelessness and housing challenges have vexed the county. The number of unhoused people continues to grow, despite increases in funding. Ongoing issues at the county’s department of social services have also frustrated residents and led to calls for change. Now, change is coming.
Click here to see the Nov. 5 election results from Fresno County.