Rev. Bishop V. Jesse Smith Seeks Palmdale City Council District 4 Seat

PALMDALE, CA — Reverend Bishop V. Jesse Smith, a longtime community advocate, faith leader, and civil rights activist, is running for Palmdale City Council District 4, focusing his campaign on economic development, government accountability, public safety, and support for local families.

Smith, the Senior Pastor of The Way Center of Truth, has spent decades serving Antelope Valley residents through religious leadership, community organizing, and civic advocacy.

One of Smith’s most notable contributions to Palmdale politics was his role as a lead plaintiff in the 2012 California Voting Rights Act lawsuit against the City of Palmdale. The legal challenge ultimately helped bring district-based elections to the city, replacing its previous at-large voting system and expanding representation for historically underrepresented communities.

Smith previously served as a Palmdale Planning Commissioner, president of the local NAACP chapter, and co-founder of The Community Action League.

His campaign biography also highlights labor support, including endorsements from SEIU Local 2015 and SEIU-UHW.

Smith’s campaign priorities include:

• Economic Development: Supporting small businesses, attracting investment, and creating local jobs.

• Government Accountability: Promoting transparency and fair distribution of taxpayer resources.

• Public Safety: Strengthening relationships between residents and law enforcement.

• Youth and Families: Expanding after-school programs and community resources.

Smith says his leadership philosophy is rooted in humility, integrity, and community service.

“Lead with humility and you will expose your integrity,” reads a statement in his campaign biography.

As Palmdale voters prepare for the November 3, 2026, election, Smith is presenting his experience in civil rights advocacy and local government as qualifications for representing District 4.

AV Daily News | 2026 Election Coverage

Source: Rev. Bishop V. Jesse Smith’s campaign biography. Candidate background, priorities, and endorsement claims are based on campaign-provided information and have not been independently verified.