The overflow crowd booed at the December 16 council meeting, as Councilmembers Jung, Dunlap and Valencia voted Jung in for his fourth time as mayor, again passing over District 5 Councilmember Zahra – the longest serving member of the council, and also passing over District 3 Mayor-Protem Charles, who, according to Fair Rotation, should have automatically become mayor. Dunlap was selected as Mayor Pro Tem. This signals a continuing trend prioritizing political alignment over fairness.

The Fair Rotation policy was put in place to ensure equitable access to leadership positions among council members representing districts, fostering an environment where all voices can be heard and represented. By opting for a leadership team that does not reflect this commitment, the current council majority demonstrates blatant disregard for the very principles that underpin democratic governance.

Dr. Ahmad Zahra, the most senior council member, was absent from the meeting because his work extended the timeline of a film set. Meanwhile, Dr. Shana Charles found herself outnumbered by the bloc driving the decision.
By ignoring the Fair Rotation policy, the council risks alienating constituents who expect integrity and fairness from their elected representatives. Elected officials are entrusted to govern not just for their district constituents, but for every individual in the community. Scrapping the fair rotation undermines public trust.

The leadership selection raises serious questions about the council bloc’s priorities. Will the bloc act in the best interests of all Fullertonians, or will they continue to prioritize political alliances over democratic values? Residents need to hold their elected leaders accountable, urging them to uphold principles of fairness, representation, and unity within the government.