Hesperia, California (Our Hesperia) – In the November 5, 2024, Hesperia City Council elections, preliminary results indicate potential shifts in leadership for Districts 1 and 5. As of 2:00pm November 9, 2024, the total number of ballots counted were 487,794 with 269,700 unprocessed and 20,500 challenged ballots / left to cure (noncomparable signature on identification envelope or unsigned identification envelope and first-time federal voter).
District 1
Challenger Chris Ochoa leads incumbent Rebekah Swanson by 175 votes, securing 1,800 votes (52.55%) to Swanson’s 1,625 (47.45%).
Ochoa’s campaign emphasized community engagement and inclusivity. Ochoa’s active involvement in local organizations, self-proclaimed progressive and his focus on addressing community concerns may have contributed to his lead.
Swanson, a long-serving council member and mayor pro tem, highlighted her experience and dedication to public safety and infrastructure development. With Swanson’s long-standing appointment to the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA) could create a substantial loss for Hesperia’s roads and infrastructure.
District 5
Josh Pullen holds a significant lead with 2,155 votes (51.69%), followed by James Roberts III with 973 votes (23.29%), Bill Jensen with 716 votes (17.14%), and James Blocker with 329 votes (7.88%).
Pullen’s campaign focused on his extensive public service background, including his tenure in the U.S. Air Force and as a division chief with the San Bernardino County Fire Department. His emphasis on public safety, transparency, and community development resonated with voters, contributing to his strong lead.
Roberts, with experience in law enforcement and as vice president of the Hesperia Recreation & Park District, campaigned on community togetherness and family values. Despite his efforts, he trails behind Pullen in the current vote count.
Jensen, a former councilman, leveraged his prior experience and focus on public safety and economic development. However, his campaign has not garnered sufficient support to surpass the leading candidates.
Blocker, active in local organizations and events, emphasized community involvement. Despite his contributions, he remains in fourth place.
Times Media Service feels comfortable to call Josh Pullen for the 5th district as the winner, but between Chris Ochoa and Rebekah Swanson it is still too close to call.
Robert Stine (Times Media Service)
