Jurupa Valley, CA—The November municipal elections in Jurupa Valley have drawn attention to the growing role of outside money in local politics, raising questions about the influence of Political Action Committees (PACs) and the challenges faced by grassroots candidates.
This year’s race features candidates like Tyler Byrne, a self-funded contender running his campaign with a modest budget of less than $3,000. Byrne’s candidacy stands in stark contrast to opponents supported by well-funded PACs and significant individual fundraising, illustrating the increasing gap between independent candidates and those benefiting from external financial support.
The Rise of PAC Influence
Two years ago, PACs began making their mark on Jurupa Valley elections, and their influence has only grown since. Councilmember Guillermo “Willy” Silva’s campaign has benefited from $5,581 in mailers and phone banking funded by the Moving California Forward PAC, with an additional $25,000 allocated for upcoming campaign activities. In addition, Silva’s own campaign fundraising totals $16,000, providing a significant financial advantage over grassroots competitors.
Another powerful player is the Save Jurupa Valley PAC, launched by Councilmember Armando Carmona. The PAC has raised $45,000 and is actively backing candidates for the City Council, School Boards, and Parks District. Critics argue that such financial muscle skews elections in favor of candidates with strong PAC ties, undermining the community-focused approach many voters seek.
The Role of Opposition PACs
Even opposition PACs have entered the fray. The San Diego-based Jurupa Valley Citizens for Change PAC has raised $20,000, primarily targeting Silva and Councilmember Leslie Altamirano. The group’s mailers and digital ads depict Jurupa Valley as a crime-infested city, using fear-based messaging that some residents believe unfairly tarnishes the city’s image.
“It’s troubling to see PACs—many from outside our community—shaping the narrative about Jurupa Valley,” Byrne said. “Our city is not the crime-ridden wasteland these ads make it out to be. This kind of fearmongering is damaging and unproductive.”
A Grassroots Campaign’s Struggle
For Byrne, running a grassroots campaign with limited funds has been an uphill battle. Without the financial backing of PACs or large donors, Byrne relies on door-to-door engagement and community events to connect with voters.
“It’s an insurmountable task to compete against campaigns that have tens of thousands of dollars at their disposal,” Byrne explained. “The focus of elections has shifted from choosing leaders based on merit to selecting those with the most financial firepower. This system silences the voices of ordinary residents and discourages independent candidates.”
Community Concerns About Influence
The influx of outside money has sparked concern among voters about the integrity of local governance. PACs often represent developers and other special interests whose priorities may not align with the needs of Jurupa Valley residents.
“PACs are reshaping the dynamics of our local elections,” said longtime resident Maria Ortega. “I want to vote for someone who truly understands our community—not someone who’s backed by outside interests.”
A Call for Change
Byrne is urging voters to scrutinize where campaign funding is coming from and to prioritize candidates who are committed to transparency and accountability.
“This election isn’t just about picking leaders—it’s about reclaiming our city from the influence of big money,” he said. “Jurupa Valley deserves leaders who prioritize people over politics and service over self-interest.”
As Election Day approaches, Byrne’s message resonates with voters who value grassroots leadership. Whether his campaign can overcome the financial dominance of PAC-backed candidates remains to be seen, but the conversation about the role of money in politics is now firmly in the spotlight.
