Good morning, Stockton.

As election season heats up, one Stockton elected official is drawing attention for what she hasn’t said.

Scott Linesburgh and Aaron Leathley report that Councilmember Mariela Ponce has spent much of her first year representing District 2 without publicly explaining many of her priorities, votes or accomplishments. Their latest story examines her first year in office and the questions some residents still have about her leadership.

Elsewhere, voters will decide several local races in next week’s primary election. Stockton’s new professional hockey team has narrowed its name choices to four finalists and University of the Pacific announced plans to open a medical school in Stockton that could help address healthcare needs across the Central Valley.

If you’re planning the weekend, our latest Things to Do guide highlights local festivals, racing, live music and family-friendly events happening around the region.

Thanks for starting your morning with us. We’re grateful to keep telling Stockton’s stories.

Head and shoulders photo of Daniel Garza

Daniel Garza

Stocktonia content coordinator


Today’s top story

What does Councilmember Mariela Ponce think of her first year? She wouldn’t say

By Scott Linesburgh • Stocktonia and Aaron Leathley • Stocktonia

In her first year representing District 2 on the Stockton City Council, Mariela Ponce seldom explained publicly exactly what she’s doing for her constituents.


Stories you may have missed

San Joaquin County races will be decided in primaries

San Joaquin County voters will decide several local races in the June 2 primary, including two contested seats on the Board of Supervisors and a countywide challenge for assessor-recorder-county clerk.

Stockton’s new pro hockey team narrows name choices to 4 — and one’s a vegetable

Fans are being invited to select a winner from the top four finalists.

University of the Pacific’s planned medical school to reshape future of healthcare in Central Valley

University of the Pacific announced plans to open a School of Medicine on its Stockton campus, establishing what the university says would be the first M.D.-granting medical school in the Central Valley from south of Sacramento to north of Los Angeles.

Things to Do | May 29-31, 2026

From a multi-day dog show and tailgate celebration to racing, live music and local festivals, here’s what’s happening May 28–31.


Top California news

Where California’s gubernatorial candidates stand on climate and taking big oil money

While frontrunners Tom Steyer and Xavier Becerra slug it out, they’re clashing over their commitment to clean energy.