FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 17, 2026
Culver City Democrats Choose Puza and Small for Council
CULVER CITY – The Culver City Democratic Club, the city’s original Democratic Club, founded in 1952, has completed its endorsements for the local offices in this fall’s election. Members have chosen Freddy Puza and Thomas Small for City Council and Triston Ezidore, Brian Guerrero, and Stephanie Loredo for Board of Education.
Incumbent Councilmember, current Mayor, and former Democratic Club Vice President Puza requested early endorsement, which club members gave him at their May 13 meeting. The three incumbent School Board members were endorsed following the June 10 meeting.
After the club’s August 12 meeting members voted on their second Council endorsement, for the seat vacated by Dan O’Brien, who chose to take a job with the Chamber of Commerce rather than seek to continue in public service.
Former Mayor Thomas Small, who the club had supported in his successful 2016 campaign, won in a landslide, with 81% of the vote. Jeannine Wisnosky Stehelin was second with 10%, 7% preferred “no endorsement,” and Kimberley Griffin received 1%.
Club Past President Jeff Schwartz, who coordinated the endorsement process, noticed many members were impressed by Small’s readiness to participate in the club’s candidate forum. Griffin did not respond to the invitation and Winsosky Stehlin backed out the night of the event. Schwartz added: “Our members recognized that Puza and Small are experienced progressive leaders who combine intellect and compassion to work for the entire community. We encourage Culver City voters to join us in supporting these outstanding candidates.”
For a full list of Culver City Democratic Club endorsements, past and current, visit: https://www.c-c-d-c.com/endorsements/