Andrea Dolan Bouchard Challenges Elaine Holmes

Andrea Dolan Bouchard Looks to Unseat Longtime Public Servant

INDIO — Andrea Dolan Bouchard, a California‑licensed criminal defense and family law attorney and law professor, is looking to add another title — City Councilor.

Dolan Bouchard is running in District 3 where she is she is oping to push out incumbent Elaine Holmes, a small-business owner.

Holmes is currently the mayor of Indio, the largest city in the Coachella Valley, and was first elected in 2010 with the highest number of votes in an at-large election.  She was re-elected in 2014, 2018 and 2022 and represents District 3 which is comprised of the Northeast and Southeast section of the city. Holmes served as Indio’s Mayor in 2013, 2017 and 2021.

Uken Report distributed a series of questions to both Holmes and Andrea Dolan Bouchard.  Holmes did not respond. Dolan Bouchard’s reproposes follow.

Uken Report (UR): Why are you a better candidate than your opponent?

Andrea Dolan Bouchard: I am a professionally trained problem solver and negotiator that advocates for the rights and needs of others. I believe this skill set makes me a well-qualified candidate for our City Council.

I am committed to practical, transparent leadership, that listens to residents, makes informed decisions and plans not just for today, but for the future of Indio.

UR: Would you ever approve a data center in Indio? Why or why not?

Andrea Dolan Bouchard: I believe that the overconsumption of resources that are seemingly required for data centers to be implemented in our city would be a deterrent against supporting data centers.

UR: What is your vision for the city?

Andrea Dolan Bouchard: My vision for Indio is to be an advocate for the needs of our residents. I want everyone to feel the pride I do to be a member of this community.

UR: How much do you plan to spend on your campaign? Keep in mind your spending and contributions are public record.

Andrea Dolan Bouchard: There is no specific benchmark, I will work to obtain the necessary resources to run a competitive and successful campaign, while being mindful of how these generous contributions are utilized.

UR: Who or what prompted you to run?

Andrea Dolan Bouchard: I was asked to serve by members of our community who like myself are not just planning for today, but also for the future of Indio..

UR: Is there a project unique to your district? What will you do about it?

Andrea Dolan Bouchard: I do not have a project specific at this time. I am, however, excited for the opportunity to speak with my neighbors and residents of Indio district 3 to better understand their needs and concerns for what projects they believe to be the most pressing.

UR: What is the best quality about your opponent(s)?

Andrea Dolan Bouchard: I respect Elaine’s care for the city and the hours she has volunteered to the community.

UR: Is it appropriate for members of the City Council to campaign against a fellow councilmember without really saying why? Why or why not?

Andrea Dolan Bouchard: I believe that is a question better suited for the council members who choose to publicly endorse any candidate. In as much as they are free to endorse a fellow council member, they are also free to endorse a well-qualified challenger who has the ability to bring a fresh approach.