Democracy was on the ballot — and WON!!
California voters made history last night with the overwhelming passage of Proposition 50, reaffirming our state's commitment to fair representation and free elections. With 64% approval, voters chose to redraw our congressional map to reflect the people who actually live here — not the political interests trying to manipulate it.
Governor Newsom's leadership was crucial in standing up to Trump and Abbott's coordinated effort to tilt the balance of Congress through extreme gerrymandering. Their tactics — like eliminating Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett's district, silencing a brilliant Black woman's voice — are reminders that this fight is about more than maps. It's about power, equality, and the future of democracy itself.
But this victory is just the beginning. Trump's allies are already working in red and even some blue states to rewrite the rules before 2026. We must stay informed, stay united, and continue showing up — because democracy doesn't defend itself. We do.
Cheryl Hays, President, Democratic Club of Greater Tracy
No Kings 2 — Community, Democracy, Action
October 18, 2025 · Dr. Powers Park (Tracy)
More than 300 participants came together for a half day of peaceful, powerful action — including a Honk & Wave and the unifying Hands Across Tracy demonstration at Lowell Ave & Tracy Blvd.
Speakers and leaders included Jenny Wood (No Kings Coalition), Mayor Dan Ariola, SJC Dems Chair Manuel Zapata, Robin Cole, Cindi Reis, and Sean Thompson. Community stations offered poster-making, food collection for farm workers, voter registration, a SURJ fundraiser, and sign-ups for future actions.
The rally closed with remarks from Dr. Ines Ruiz-Huston (El Concilio), Councilmember Dotty Nygard (Retired ER Nurse, CNA organizer), and Lisa Roth. The message was clear: There are no kings in America — democracy belongs to the people.
Thanks to organizers Cindi Reis, Sean Thompson, Amy Thompson, Robin Cole, Juney Yasemsky, Jenny Wood, John Hawk, Cindy Garza, and Lisa Roth — and to all volunteers.
City of Tracy Begins Transition to By-District Elections
Post Date: 10/09/2025
At a special meeting on August 26, 2025, the Tracy City Council adopted a resolution declaring its intent to transition from at-large to by-district Council Member elections (CA Elections Code § 10010).
If approved, the City anticipates conducting the November 2026 election by district (two districts in 2026; two in November 2028). The Mayor remains at-large, elected citywide every two years. Consultants Wagaman Strategies and Tripepi Smith will assist.
Residents are encouraged to participate so district lines reflect neighborhoods, history, and geography — including by attending hearings, submitting draft maps, and providing feedback.
Public Hearings
- Oct 28, 2025 – 7:00 p.m. — First Public Hearing, Tracy City Hall, Council Chambers
- Nov 18, 2025 – 7:00 p.m. — Second Public Hearing, Tracy City Hall, Council Chambers
- Dec 11, 2025 – 7:00 p.m. — Third Public Hearing, Tracy City Hall, Council Chambers
- Jan 13, 2026 – 7:00 p.m. — Fourth Public Hearing, Tracy City Hall, Council Chambers
Learn more: cityoftracy.org/districting
Send questions & maps to districting@cityoftracy.org or call the City Clerk's Office at (209) 831-6105.
Montanans Move to Overturn Citizens United — The "Montana Plan"
Transparent Elections Initiative filed a 2026 ballot measure to redefine corporate powers and exclude corporate spending on elections — leveraging long-standing state authority over corporate charters.
- What it does: Revokes & reinstates powers, explicitly omitting "election activity."
- Why states can: Corporate powers are granted by states and can be changed for all corporations operating in-state.
- What's next: Ballot qualification, then a voter decision.
Learn more · Harvard overview · Read our full breakdown
SNAP/CalFresh Updates & Food Assistance — What You Can Do Now
As of Nov 1: Federal shutdown impacts may delay SNAP payments. California is fast-tracking support to food banks, engaging CA National Guard/Volunteers, and joining legal action to keep benefits flowing.
Local help: San Joaquin County's Food For You program offers free grocery distributions this month at 22 locations (Nov 5, 6, 18, 19, 20, 21). Residency and income guidelines apply.
- Find the nearest food bank
- Program details & income requirements
- Emergency Food Service Locations
- CalFresh updates
Need help now? Call 2-1-1 for live assistance.
Message from Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom (AD-13). Our office is here to help. Contact: (209) 948-7479
Postcard Power!
1,040 postcards purchased + 1,400+ printed; nearly 1,000 mailed so far. Huge thanks to our small-but-mighty writers pushing turnout.
Thinking About City Council?
Our club is committed to building strong, responsive local leadership that reflects our community's values. With city council seats opening soon, it's time to think about who in our community is ready to step up and serve.
Local government has the greatest impact on daily life — shaping policies on housing, public safety, transportation, and environmental sustainability. That's why it's essential to have leaders who share our values at the table.
Interested? Text Robin Cole at (209) 834-6311 (text preferred).
Helpful resources for first-time candidates:
Fundraising Report — October 2025
Yesterday we held our last fundraiser for the year. More than 35 people came to enjoy a relaxed day at the park. We shared good conversations with new people, played some games and enjoyed good food. I want to thank everyone who helped plan and execute our BBQ. A special thanks to our grill masters, Steve Nunez and Walter Gouveia, who made grilling look effortless. Thanks to Alyce Eversole, Pat Howell and Cindi Reis for their yummy desserts and Nancy Wilson for bringing games and a cotton candy machine for our enjoyment.
Regards, Cheryl · (209) 612-7022
Your Ideas & Stories Shape Our Work
Have a perspective to share, an event to highlight, or resources neighbors should know about? Send it in — we feature member voices every month.