Preguntas frecuentes (FAQ)

Who is James Becerra?

James Becerra is a longtime Whittier resident, public servant, and educator running for Mayor because he believes City Hall should listen first and work better for the people who live here. He has spent more than 20 years serving on city boards and commissions and recently retired from teaching urban planning and design.

 

Why is James Becerra running for Mayor now?

Because many residents feel decisions are being made without them. After nearly 20 years under the same mayor, James believes Whittier needs leadership that is more open, more responsive, and more focused on everyday quality-of-life issues—like traffic, neighborhood character, and basic city services.

 

How would James Becerra be different from the current mayor?

James believes:

• Residents should be heard before decisions are made, not after.

• City government should explain things in plain language.

• Growth should improve Whittier without erasing what people love about it.

• City Hall should respond consistently, not defensively.
   

In short: less closed-door decision-making, more listening and follow-through.

 

What are James Becerra’s top priorities?

James’s priorities are shaped by what residents raise at City Council meetings and in neighborhoods:

1. Real transparency and public voice

2. Safe, fair, and predictable streets

3. Growth without erasing Whittier’s character

4. A city that responds to residents

5. Dignity, rights, and community trust
    

What does “real transparency” actually mean?

It means:

• Public comments are fully heard and available to everyone.

• City decisions are explained clearly, not buried in jargon.

• Residents are informed early—before votes are taken.

• City Hall shows how public input actually influenced decisions.
   

Transparency shouldn’t be a slogan. It should be how the city operates every day.

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Is James Becerra anti-development?

No. James supports thoughtful, responsible development.

He believes development should:

• Fit the neighborhood

• Protect mature trees and historic character

• Improve walkability and safety

• Include usable public spaces
   

Growth should benefit residents—not just developers.

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What does James Becerra believe about public safety?

Becerra believes safety should be something people feel, not just statistics.

That means:

• Slower, safer streets

• Fair and predictable enforcement

• Non-police responses for non-violent mental health situations

• Clear rules around surveillance and data use
   

The goal is calm neighborhoods, not overreaction.

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How does James Becerra support immigrant and longtime families?

James believes everyone in Whittier should feel safe accessing city services and participating in civic life.

 

He supports:

• Clear communication about residents’ rights

• City policies that do not create fear or confusion

• Working with trusted community organizations

• Leadership that is calm, clear, and respectful
   

Is James Becerra connected to developers or special interests?

No. James is not backed by developers, lobbyists, or political insiders.

His campaign is focused on residents, neighborhoods, and long-term planning—not short-term deals.

 

How can I help James Becerra’s campaign?

The most important way to help is talking to neighbors.

You can also:

• Walk and talk to voters in your neighborhood

• Volunteer your time

• Share information with friends and family

• Request yard sign or button to show your support

• Donate if you’re able
   

This campaign is built block-by-block, not top-down.

 

What’s the main reason people are supporting James Becerra?

Because they want a mayor who:

• Listens

• Explains decisions clearly

• Respects neighborhoods

• And makes City Hall work better for everyday people
   

What is James Becerra’s position on ICE and recent immigration enforcement actions?

James is deeply concerned by reports of people being harmed or killed during federal immigration enforcement and believes everyone deserves dignity, due process, and constitutional rights—no exceptions. While immigration is a federal responsibility, James believes local leaders must be clear and steady when residents feel fear or uncertainty. As Mayor, he will ensure Whittier does not assist in unconstitutional actions, does not contribute to fear or confusion, and communicates honestly about what the City does—and does not—do, while working with trusted community partners so families feel informed, respected, and safe accessing city services.