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Local · Board of Equalization

Board of Equalization, District 1

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Key findings

  • The BOE lost most of its power in 2017 after a state audit found "misspending at the agency that appeared intended to promote its elected members." It now "advises county assessors," values utility and railroad property, and hears some appeals. It has "long been a launching pad" for politicians. [1][2]
  • Open seat: State Sen. Shannon Grove (R), termed out, vs. Fresno Councilmember Nelson Esparza (D).
  • District 1 is one of four statewide; check your sample ballot to confirm it's on yours.

Board of Equalization, District 1

Your pick

Shannon Grove (R)

  • Key findings: Army veteran; co-founded Continental Labor and Staffing Resources; Assembly 2010–2016 and Senate 2018–2026 (Bakersfield). Endorsed by outgoing BOE member Ted Gaines, the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association and Reform California. Priority: no tax increases, protect Prop 13. [3][4][1][2]

Nelson Esparza (D)

  • Key findings: Fresno City Council member. Endorsed by the California Democratic Party, the California Labor Federation and CSEA. [1]

Sources 4

3 reporting1 reference
  1. ^ a b c CalMatters, 2026 voter guide, Board of Equalization CalMatters Reporting
  2. ^ a b LAist, BOE candidates (May 25, 2026) LAist Reporting
  3. ^ Digital Democracy (CalMatters), Shannon Grove calmatters.digitaldemocracy.org Reference
  4. ^ Bakersfield Californian, Grove seeks seat on Board of Equalization (Aug 27, 2025) bakersfield.com Reporting