Cambria, a small coastal town in California, has brought back its unique Honorary Mayor's Race, a tradition where votes can be purchased for $1 each. The revival of the contest, which has been dormant for nearly 20 years, aims to raise funds for local nonprofits and inject some humor into the political process.
As an unincorporated community, Cambria does not have an official mayor. This honorary election serves as a lighthearted event, allowing for the literal purchase of votes with no limit on the number a supporter can buy. "So a dollar a vote, it’s the only time that it’s legitimate to buy your politician," said candidate Dianne "Lady Tie Di" Brooke. Renee Linn, president of the Cambria Chamber of Commerce, added, "It’s literally an election that you can buy."
This year's race features four candidates representing various community organizations: Dianne Brooke for the Cambria Grammar School PTA, Barrett Stuart for the Cambria Tennis Club, Jim Bahringer for the American Legion, and Del Clegg for the Cambria Rotary Club.
The candidates have embraced the playful nature of the race with humorous campaign promises. Bahringer's platform includes a pledge to "keep as much fog out of Cambria as possible, especially at sunsets," while Brooke aims to bring "color and tie-dye on every kid." Stuart has promised residents "immortality" through a four-point plan.
The campaign has involved festive activities, including a pie-eating contest during Cambria's Fourth of July celebration, where candidates were seen dancing with a live band. "It was kind of joyous," Stuart remarked about the event. "Lady Tie Di was out there dancing, my sister got me dancing, and eventually we convinced Jim to come out too. It was just a really nice moment."
Beyond the entertainment, the race is a significant fundraising effort. The money collected is divided between the Cambria Chamber of Commerce and the candidates' chosen charities, supporting initiatives ranging from school field trips and public tennis courts to veterans' programs and Rotary projects. "It’s a win-win," Stuart stated. "You raise money for your organization, you meet more people, and you get to be part of something that’s making the community smile."
The honorary winner will be announced at a celebration in September and will hold the title of the town's "official but unofficial" mayor for the following year. IMAGE2: Four candidates, Dianne Brooke, Jim Bahringer, Dell Clegg, and Barrett Stuart, standing at the "Cambria Honorary Mayor's Race" event.