On June 2^nd, 2026 we will have a chance to use the full weight of the electoral process to determine who will represent us as Richmond’s Mayor for the next four years.

In an effort to help level the playing field, Radio Free Richmond has extended an offer to all five candidates for Mayor to post their own words to let you, the voters, know their positions on what they believe to be the important issues.

THIS IS FREE PUBLICITY.

The candidates have also been invited to post guest editorials on the issues of importance.

RFR will post a new candidate statement every couple of days.

RADIO FREE RICHMOND DOES NOT ENDORSE CANDIDATES—THEY OFFER A PLATFORM FOR COMMUNITY MEMBERS TO EXPRESS IDEAS ON ISSUES OF VALUE TO THE COMMUNITY

ANDERSON FOR MAYOR 2026

FPPC# 1481105

When I speak about why I’m running for Mayor of Richmond, I start from a place that is deeply personal: I am a native son of Richmond. I was born and raised here, I’ve walked these neighborhoods for more than 60 years, and I’ve spent my life listening, learning, and serving this community. Learn more at my campaign website.

Richmond deserves leadership that is rooted, proven, and accountable—and that’s exactly what I bring.

First, I understand that the foundation of any strong city is delivering the “bread and butter” services that residents rely on every single day. Clean streets. Safe neighborhoods. Reliable infrastructure. Timely 911 response. Addressing potholes, illegal dumping, and blight—not as talking points, but as priorities. These are not small issues; they are quality-of-life issues. When the government gets these right, people feel it immediately. When it doesn’t, people live with the consequences daily.

My leadership is grounded in ensuring that city government works—efficiently, transparently, and responsibly. I will bring disciplined oversight to our city’s finances so that taxpayer dollars translate into real, visible improvements across every neighborhood.

Second, I bring demonstrated leadership built on decades of service. I have spent over 40 years advocating for this community—working across nonprofits, workforce development, and civic leadership roles. I’ve chaired Richmond’s Economic Development Commission, served on boards that advance equity and opportunity, and consistently shown up for Richmond—not just during elections, but every day.

That experience matters because Richmond doesn’t need someone learning on the job. It needs someone who understands how systems work—and more importantly, how to make them work for people.

Third, my vision is inclusive and people-centered. From North Richmond to Marina Bay, from the Iron Triangle to Hilltop, every resident deserves to feel safe, heard, and valued. I believe public safety is not just about enforcement—it’s about prevention, opportunity, and accountability. It’s about investing in our youth, supporting families, and creating pathways to good-paying jobs so that safety becomes sustainable.

Richmond needs economic development. When we support small businesses—the lifeblood of our local economy—we create jobs, generate revenue, and strengthen our community fabric. I will work to attract quality employers, expand workforce training, and ensure that economic growth benefits Richmond residents first.

Housing, homelessness, and environmental justice are also critical. We must build and preserve affordable housing, support our unhoused neighbors with dignity and effective pathways to stability, and ensure that every neighborhood has clean air, clean streets, and access to safe, well-maintained parks.

As we’ve discovered over the past year, a mayor’s temperament matters. The current mayor never thought twice before posting hateful conspiracy theories online, and his RPA colleague now running against him refused to publicly censure him. That is not what leadership looks like.

I lead with empathy and accountability. I listen. I am engaged. I show up. My campaign is not about promises—it’s about partnership. I believe leadership is about bringing people together, finding common ground, and delivering results that improve everyday life.

My approach to leadership is the reason I’m endorsed by the Democratic Party of Contra Costa County, former Mayor Tom Butt, State Superintendent Tony Thurmond, State Senator Jesse Arreguín, Assemblymember Buffy Wicks and so many more leaders throughout the East Bay.

Richmond is a city of pride and purpose. It deserves a mayor who not only understands its challenges, but who has demonstrated the ability to lead, to build relationships, and to get things done.

That is why I am the best candidate for Mayor in 2026.

I would be honored to earn your support.

Our Voices ~ Our Actions Matter,

Ahmad Anderson

http://www.anderson4richmond.com

510-219-5782