Stonewall Democrats Unveil Endorsements

Desert Stonewall Democrats Announces Early Candidate Endorsements for 2026 Election Cycle

PALM SPRINGS — Desert Stonewall Democrats, the premier political organization advancing LGBTQ+ rights and progressive governance across all nine cities of the Coachella Valley, announce its early candidate endorsements for the 2026 election cycle, according to a news release.

Following a thorough evaluation of candidate records, public service, and commitments to
equity, Desert Stonewall Democrats is throwing its full organizational weight behind
leaders who have consistently demonstrated an unwavering defense of civil rights and
transparent, public-first leadership.

These early endorsed candidates are guardians of democracy, equality, transparency, and
ensuring the public trust is always at the forefront when doing the people’s work across our
desert communities.

2026 Early Endorsed Candidates

Marni von Wilpert — U.S. House of Representatives, CA-48

Von Wilpert brings a formidable record of consumer protection, public safety, and
aggressive civil rights advocacy to her congressional bid. As a former deputy city attorney
and dedicated local representative, Marni has shown an unyielding commitment to holding
power accountable, defending democratic institutions, and standing up for LGBTQ+
equality on the federal stage.

Jeffrey Bernstein — Palm Springs City Council, District 2

A steadfast civic leader and dedicated champion of local economic vitality, Bernstein has consistently put community trust and transparent governance at the center
of his public service. His focus on inclusive economic growth, housing solutions, and
protecting the rich LGBTQ+ heritage of Palm Springs makes him a vital voice for the city’s
future.

Ron deHarte — Palm Springs City Council, District 3

With a deep legacy of community advocacy, public safety leadership, and regional
coordination, Ron deHarte stands out as a fierce defender of civil rights and public
integrity. His proactive approach to civic engagement ensures that every resident’s voice is
heard and that local government operates with full transparency and responsiveness.

Gary Gardner — Desert Hot Springs City Council, District 1

Gardner has been an unwavering voice for equitable representation and community
revitalization in Desert Hot Springs. His persistent work to improve local infrastructure,
expand youth and senior services, and champion non-discrimination protections reflects
his deep-seated belief in doing the people’s work with honesty and clear intent.

 Joel Kinnamon — Desert Community College District Board of Trustees, Area 4

As an experienced educator and institutional leader, Kinnamon has been a
relentless advocate for academic integrity, fiscal transparency, and expanded access to
higher education throughout the Coachella Valley. His leadership on the board ensures
that student success, diversity, and public accountability remain the highest priorities.

Frank Figueroa — Mayor, City of Coachella

Figueroa exemplifies a community-first approach to mayoral leadership in the
East Valley. As mayor, he has been a tireless advocate for municipal transparency,
economic opportunity for working families, and working to create opportunities for its
young residents. Figueroa is the leader of Coachella, who will always protect the public
trust as mayor and lifelong resident of Coachella.

Antonio Baciu — Cathedral City Council, District 5

Baciu brings a deep-rooted commitment to public service to District 5. Through his
dedicated work on Cathedral City’s Parks & Community Events Commission, regional
animal welfare initiatives, and local youth programs, Antonio has repeatedly proven his
devotion to civic life. Above all, Antonio stands out as a fierce defender of LGBTQ+
visibility, safety, and inclusion across the valley.

“In a political landscape where democratic norms and basic equal rights are continually
tested, our desert communities require leaders who possess both the competence to
deliver and the integrity to lead,” said Stephen Nelson, Chair of Desert Stonewall
Democrats. “Each of these early-endorsed candidates understands that holding public
office is a solemn duty to serve every single resident with transparency, dignity, and
courage.”

Desert Stonewall Democrats urges voters across all nine Coachella Valley cities to support
these pro-equality candidates in the 2026 elections.

To learn more about upcoming membership drives, endorsement meetings, or how to get
involved, visit http://www.desert-stonewall.org.