Episode Details

Three candidates battle for Santa Barbara County’s Fifth District seat as Steve Lavagnino steps down, with Cory Bantilan, Ricardo Valencia, and Aguilera vying for voters’ trust amid deep budget cuts, housing crises, and the green energy transition. Each offers distinct visions: Aguilera pushes debt refinancing to avoid layoffs, Bantilan targets Sheriff overtime and jail delays, and Valencia proposes an inspector general to audit spending. On housing, they all support affordable options in the Solomon Hills project, with Valencia stressing mixed-income to fight segregation and Aguilera locking in prices early. Economically, Aguilera and Bantilan back “all-of-the-above” energy jobs, while Valencia champions a just transition with equal pay. On wages, Bantilan opposes county minimum wage hikes, Valencia champions workers’ rights and permanent housing, and Aguilera believes business growth drives wage increases — all while tackling homelessness and mental health roots.

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