Candidates’ positions on animals
Most of us fill out our ballots thinking about housing, safety and taxes. Animals rarely make the list, yet local leaders make decisions that affect them every day. City councils can ban glue traps, require transparency from shelters and fund low-cost spay/neuter programs. They can protect wildlife habitat and decide how fireworks affect pets and animals.
As co-founder of Ventura County Voters for Animals, I’ve found that candidates’ positions on these issues are often hard to find. So, we asked them directly, covering companion animals, humane pest control, wildlife and fireworks, and posted the results. Some candidates scored 100%. Others declined to respond.
You can see how candidates in your city answered with our new 2026 election tool at our website.
Whoever you support, take a few minutes to learn where candidates stand before you vote. Elections for city councils are often decided by small margins, and your ballot can help decide how our community treats animals.
Katie Arth, Ventura, co-founder of Ventura County Voters for Animals
Rosuck is right for Simi board
As someone who has lived in Simi Valley for over 50 years as well as dedicated 25 years to teaching elementary students in our Simi Valley district, I have seen firsthand how the decisions made by our school board directly impact our classrooms, our students, our teachers, and our families every single day. That is why I am proud to support Dr. Ryan Rosuck for Simi Valley Unified School District Board, Area E.
Dr. Rosuck brings a unique combination of experience, expertise, and perspective that our school board needs. As an accomplished educator, school administrator, parent, and former student of our district, she understands the impact board decisions have on students, teachers, and families. With more than 20 years in public education, National Board Certification, a doctorate in Educational Leadership, and recognition as a Lew Roth Award recipient, she has the knowledge and experience to make thoughtful, student-centered decisions.
What stands out to me most is that she understands what happens inside of our classrooms. She knows the importance of supporting teachers, making sound curriculum decisions, retaining high-quality educators, prioritizing student mental health, and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn and succeed. As educators, we need leaders who understand the realities of today’s classrooms and who will listen to those working directly with students every single day. Our students deserve a school board member who leads with experience, integrity, compassion, and a deep commitment to public education.
I am honored to endorse Dr. Ryan Rosuck for Simi Valley Unified School District Board of Education, Area E, and I encourage our community to join me in supporting her. Our students, educators, and families deserve experienced leadership, and I truly believe she is the right choice.
Jennifer Brodoski, Simi Valley
This article originally appeared on Ventura County Star: Check candidates' stances on animals, Simi endorsement | Letters
