Benjamin Vazquez

Santa Ana Councilmember, Union representative, and Teacher fighting for working families and safe communities

I am Benjamin Vazquez, a SAUSD high school teacher for over 23 years, and I currently represent Ward 2 on the Santa Ana City Council.

I’m running for re-election because our city needs steady, community-centered leadership that puts working families first.

Over the past four years, we’ve made real progress. I’ve supported and delivered investments in new parks and libraries, led efforts to lower homelessness by 15%, fought for rent stabilization to protect tenants, and worked to ensure that working families and immigrant communities can not only stay in Santa Ana—but thrive here.

Moving forward, I will continue building strong partnerships with our school board and county leaders to expand opportunity, strengthen public services, and deliver real results for our neighborhoods.

Accomplishments of Councilmember Benjamin Vazquez

Housing & Tenant Protections

Led efforts with voters to protect rent control and renters’ rights by voting on measures to place these protections into the City Charter.
Brought rent control education workshops to Santa Ana schools and families.
Championed the development of affordable condominiums on Pine Street.

Parks, Youth & Community Investment

Secured the addition of new parks to Ward 2.
Protected local soccer leagues from potential displacement from city parks.
Organized a disability rights resource fair in partnership with SAUSD’s Community Advisory Committee (CAC).
Voted to increase funding for arts and cultural event sponsorships.

Immigrant Rights & Community Support

Connected with SAUSD to help share city resources and Know Your Rights workshops for tenants and immigrant families.
Advocated for transparency and public notification of ICE activity in the city.
Helped expand access to U-Visas so more immigrant survivors could remain safely in the United States.
Raised $18,000 through benefit concerts for immigrant rights organizations.
Helped deliver emergency assistance for immigrant families impacted by immigration enforcement, rent, and utility hardships through Santa Ana Ayuda Sin Fronteras.

Good Government & Public Services

Helped recover $3 million through an audit of the POA that exposed overpayments.
Pushed to increase staffing levels and expand available hours for QOLT houseless outreach services.

Priorities

Safe Communities

Advance smart public safety strategies that stop crime before it begins. Prioritize investment in youth programs and community-based solutions that strengthen family, safety and enhance quality of life.

Making Housing More Affordable

Advance practical housing solutions that protect long-term residents and preserve neighborhood stability. Strengthen renters’ rights and solidify rent control by placing it in the City Charter. Reduce unnecessary cost burdens on families and ensure more residents can remain in the communities they call home.

Thriving Local Economy

Champion small businesses, job creation, and local entrepreneurship. Cut unnecessary red tape and expand workforce development and training opportunities. Provide leadership in building a strong, dedicated Economic Development Department to drive investment, support local businesses, and grow a resilient local economy.

Accountable Government

Prioritize responsible budgeting and long-term planning. Increase transparency in how public funds are spent and ensure taxpayer dollars deliver real, measurable value. Hold all city funds accountable—including those transferred to unions for health benefits—with strong oversight and regular audits.