Danielle Parra photo

Danielle Parra has announced the launch of her campaign to be the next District 5 representative on the Fresno City Council.

Parra, 27, is president of the State Center Community College District board, first elected to the body in 2020, making her one of the youngest elected officials in Fresno County. Parra won re-election in 2024.

Brandon Vang is the current District 5 representative, winning in a special election in March with a term ending in 2027.

According to a news release from Parra, she helped open the State Center Community College District police and fire training campus in Southeast Fresno, strengthened workforce training programs that connect students to good-paying local jobs and expanded educational opportunities.

“I’m running for Fresno City Council to continue delivering results for our neighborhoods and families,” said Parra. “District 5 is where Fresno’s future is being built, and I’m ready to keep fighting for investments that make our city safer, stronger, and more affordable for working families.”

Her campaign will focus on public safety, infrastructure, parks and community spaces — issues that strengthen neighborhoods and improve the quality of life for all District 5 residents.

Parra said she works to be a partner with the businesses — the backbone of District 5.

“These are family owned businesses that create local jobs and support local families. They are a vital part of these neighborhoods. Being a partner with them is going to be most important — someone who can listen to them and work with them to help their business thrive,” Parra said.

That includes being accessible and responsive, she added.

Parra, a Central Valley native, graduated, with a master’s in public administration from Fresno State and has worked in the communication industry, partnering with local small businesses and nonprofits to bolster community outreach and visibility.

“We need leadership that listens, acts, and delivers results for the people who call this community home,” Parra said. “It’s time for a new generation of leadership that’s ready to work together and move Fresno forward.”