Political Party:
Democrat
Ballot Designation:
Mayor/Business Owner
Law Enforcement Contributions:
None as of 09/19/2026
Background:
Randall Putz has been a community leader and public service in the Big Bear region for over 15 years, serving on the Big Bear Unified School District Governing Board, the Big Bear Lake City Council, and various other regional governing bodies. Outside of his government experience, Putz has over 25 years of marketing and technology consulting experience.
Public Safety Platform:
Putz supports “smart policing strategies” to target violent crime and drug trafficking while fostering trusting relationships between citizens and law enforcement officials. He plans to champion investments in fire protection, emergency services, and infrastructure upgrades in rural areas.
While his public safety policy recommendations are vague, IJ Action recommends that voters support Putz for Assembly given the extreme views and problematic backgrounds of his opponents.
Website:
Political Party:
Republican
Ballot Designation:
Small Business Owner
Law Enforcement Contributions:
Background:
Charles Hughes is a U.S. Navy veteran, a retired law enforcement lieutenant, and small business owner who currently serves as a trustee on the Antelope Valley Union High School District Board.
Public Safety Platform:
Hughes says his public safety priorities focus on strengthening policing and holding offenders accountable. He supports maintaining police funding and protections under the Peace Officer’s Bill of Rights, opposes early‑release policies for dangerous offenders, and favors expanding prison capacity if needed to keep such individuals off the streets. He also supports reinstating the death penalty for the most serious crimes, including the murder of law enforcement officers and crimes against children. Hughes has been endorsed by 12 different law enforcement agencies.
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