Local & Community
The Battle for California's Future: Overlooked Riverside and Imperial Counties Demand Gubernatorial Attention
As the race for California Governor intensifies ahead of the June 2, 2026, primary, a powerful coalition of grassroots organizations in Riverside and Imperial counties is sounding the alarm. Community leaders claim their regions—home to some of the state's most pressing environmental and economic challenges—are being systematically overlooked by top-tier candidates.
Local groups, including Inland Congregations United for Change (ICUC) and Imperial Valley Equity and Justice (IVEJ), revealed they attempted to organize a bipartisan gubernatorial forum in Salton City earlier this year. Despite the significance of the region, organizations report receiving "little to no response" from the leading campaigns, leading to the event's cancellation.
"This area is often seen as a 'sacrifice zone' for other sectors," said Fernando Reza with Imperial Valley Equity and Justice. "We are asking for the candidates for governor to come down here, to talk to us, and to listen to us."
A Demographic Powerhouse
The push for inclusion is backed by significant numbers. Riverside County is currently the fourth-largest county in California, with approximately $1.3$ million registered voters. Combined with Imperial County’s $91,000+$ voters, the region represents a massive, yet often untapped, portion of the state’s electorate.
The region's diversity is also a critical factor in the upcoming election. According to recent Census data:
Imperial County: Is roughly $86.6\%$ Hispanic or Latino.
Riverside County: Is approximately $52\%$ Hispanic or Latino.
Community advocates argue that by ignoring these counties, candidates like Xavier Becerra, Katie Porter, Matt Mahan, and Chad Bianco are failing to address a demographic that will determine the "Battle for California's Future."
The Salton Sea: A Global Epicenter
The coalition's open letter highlights that the Eastern Coachella Valley and Imperial County are at the heart of several global shifts, most notably lithium extraction (often called "White Gold") and the expansion of AI data centers.
Residents are demanding that candidates address local concerns regarding:
Water Access: Ensuring sustainable resources for agriculture and local communities.
Healthcare Shortages: Addressing the limited medical infrastructure in rural desert areas.
Energy Independence: Managing the environmental repercussions of new mining projects.
"The battle for California's future is going to be fought here," Reza added. "We need these candidates down here to show people that their voice does matter and that these issues have a real effect."
The coalition has taken their message to social media, hoping the public pressure will force top contenders to schedule stops in the region before ballots are cast next month.
Explore NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the valley.
By: Alondra Campos
May 6, 2026
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