General Election 2026

Ashley Oelsen

2026 City Council Candidate Ashley Oelsen headshot against plant background
Election Date
Nov 3, 2026
Candidate Type
City Council 4-year
Ballot Designation
Scientist/Commissioner
Candidate Statement in English

I'm running for Santa Monica City Council because I believe the best decisions are made by bringing people together, listening first, following the facts, and having the courage to change course when the evidence demands it.


I pay rent here. I raise my child here. I face the same housing pressures and everyday challenges as thousands of my neighbors. I have the same stake in Santa Monica's future as the people I'm asking to represent.


Long before I became a candidate, I was already doing the work, showing up at City Hall, on our beaches, at regulatory hearings, and in our neighborhoods. As a Scientist and serving Santa Monica as Commissioner for Sustainability, Environmental Justice, and the Environment, I've built my career and public service by asking tough questions, examining evidence, and solving complex problems. I've learned that the best solutions come from listening before deciding and working with people, not around them.

That's the standard I'll bring to every decision I make as your Councilmember.


I don't owe special interests. I owe this community.


I would be honored to earn your vote.


Contact Us:

12501 Imperial Hwy
200
Norwalk, California 90650



Election Events

Sep 7, 2026
Nomination Filing Period - First day for write-in candidates to pick up nomination papers from City Clerk's Office.
Oct 5, 2026
LA County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk: First day to mail Vote by Mail ballots
Oct 19, 2026
Register to Vote - Last day to register to be mailed a Vote by Mail ballot.
Oct 20, 2026
Nomination Filing Period - Last day for write-in candidates to file nomination papers at City Clerk's Office.
Nov 3, 2026
Election Day (Vote Center hours 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.)
Dec 8, 2026
Council meeting to install new officers in Council Chambers (Tentative).
Feb 1, 2027
Semi-Annual Campaign Disclosure Statements due

Resources

Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk

California Secretary of State

Fair Political Practices Commission

Prohibited Election Activities