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SCCDP: Beyond the Ballot

SCCDP: Beyond the Ballot

by Santa Clara County Democratic Party

Government Politics

Season 1

Santa Clara County District 2 Supervisor — Betty Duong

In this episode of Beyond the Ballot, hosts Warren Li and Ariana Corbu sit down with Santa Clara County District 2 Supervisor Betty Duong to explore her journey from community advocate and county employee to elected office. Supervisor Duong shares her personal story as the daughter of immigrants, her work on language access, affordable housing, immigrant services, and the Vietnamese American Service Center, and what local government means for everyday residents. She also discusses civic engagement and why young people have a powerful role to play in shaping their communities and democracy.

San José District 3 Councilmember — Anthony Tordillos

In this episode of Beyond the Ballot, host Ariana Corbu sits down with San Jose District 3 Councilmember Anthony Tordillos to discuss his journey from software engineering and grassroots neighborhood organizing to taking action on City Council. Tordillos shares his hands-on approach to tackling the Bay Area's housing affordability crisis, expanding transit-oriented development, and making local streets safer. He also breaks down key city budget wins for District 3 while offering advice on how everyday residents can get involved to make a tangible impact on local government.

Los Gatos Mayor — Rob Moore

From high school troublemaker to the youngest Mayor in Los Gatos history, Mayor Rob Moore joins hosts Ariana Corbu and Caroline Zhang for a candid look at local leadership. Mayor Moore opens up about taking on big oil in college, balancing a full-time job with a $6,000 mayoral stipend, using social media to champion small businesses, and why the real power to change your community happens right in your own backyard.

Mountain View Councilmember — Ellen Kamei

In this episode, Ariana Corbu and Warren Li sit down with Mountain View Councilmember Ellen Kamei to discuss local government, community engagement, housing, small businesses, racial equity, and getting young people involved in politics. Councilmember Kamei shares lessons from her time in office and explores how meaningful change can start with small actions.

Mountain View Councilmember — Alison Hicks

In this episode of Beyond the Ballot, host Warren Li sits down with former Mountain View Mayor and current Councilmember Alison Hicks. Drawing on her extensive background as an urban planner and community activist, Alison shares how grassroots advocacy led her to local government, how Mountain View balances housing density with quality of life, and explores what state legislation means for the future of city planning.

Candidate for California's 22nd Congressional District — Randy Villegas

What does it take to represent the Central Valley? Hosts Ariana Corbu and Warren Li sit down with California’s 22nd Congressional District candidate Randy Villegas for a conversation about his journey through politics and the issues shaping his campaign. We cover the top issues in this election, from healthcare and workers’ rights to education, immigration, climate, and the cost of living. Tune in for a conversation about politics, community, and the fight for representation in the Central Valley.

Candidate for San Jose City Council District 9 — Gordon Chester

In this episode of Beyond the Ballot, hosts Ariana Corbu and Warren Li sit down with San José City Council District 9 candidate Gordon Chester for a conversation about the people, experiences, and values that shaped his campaign. From his years working in city government to the challenges of running for office, Gordon shares what inspired him to step forward and serve his community. We cover the issues that matter most to San José residents, including housing affordability, homelessness, public safety, parks, and economic opportunity.

San José District 2 Councilmember — Pamela Campos

In this episode of Beyond the Ballot, host Ariana Corbu sits down with San José District 2 Councilmember Pamela Campos to discuss her journey from early childhood education and public policy to elected office. Pamela reflects on growing up in San José, the experiences that inspired her to run for office, and the challenges that continue to shape her work, including housing, economic opportunity, transportation, and community investment. She also shares lessons from campaigning, the value of authentic leadership, and why meaningful conversations with neighbors remain at the heart of democracy. Whether you're interested in local government, civic engagement, or the future of San José, this episode offers an inside look at public service, leadership, and the power of local politics.

Santa Clara County Democratic Party Chair — Bill James

Welcome to the first episode of the Santa Clara County Democratic Party Podcast! Host Ariana Corbu sits down with SCCDP Chair Bill James for a candid conversation about leadership, community, and the future of the Democratic movement. From his beginnings as a Navy engineer and patent attorney to his role as a local Democratic leader, Bill shares the experiences that shaped his path into public service. He reflects on guiding the party through two Trump eras, the power of grassroots organizing, and why youth voices are essential to building the future of politics. Tune in for insights on the challenges facing younger generations, the impact of everyday activism, and how anyone can take part in creating change right in their own community.