ENDORSEMENT: Dorothy Pemberton has earned re-election to the Downey City Council

The Downey Patriot does not typically make endorsements for candidates or political measures.

Our role, first and foremost, is to inform the public and create a space for dialogue about the future of our community. However, in this case, we feel compelled to take a stand. Downey has made significant progress in the last two years toward building a stable, cohesive, and forward-thinking local government, and we believe Councilmember Dorothy Pemberton is integral to continuing that momentum.

Since being elected to represent District 3, Dorothy Pemberton has proven to be a vocal and effective advocate for her constituents. In her first term, she demonstrated a deep understanding of the concerns of District 3 residents, particularly on issues like code enforcement violations, which can often disrupt the character of our neighborhoods. Her proactive approach shows a commitment to maintaining the integrity and quality of life that Downey families deserve.

More importantly, Dorothy doesn’t just listen—she acts. Whether it’s tackling neighborhood issues or making decisions that impact the broader city, she carefully considers what’s in Downey’s best interest, even when those decisions may not be universally popular.

She understands that leadership means thinking long-term, balancing present needs with future growth. Throughout it all, she has remained accessible and open-minded, engaging with residents at every turn and ensuring that the voices of District 3 are heard in City Hall.

We would be remiss not to acknowledge the contributions of her opponent, Louis Morales. His decades of dedication to Downey Youth Football and his service on the Planning Commission have made a lasting impact on our community. He has been a steady hand in those roles, and his experience in community development is an asset to Downey.

However, as the city continues to evolve, it’s clear that Dorothy Pemberton is the right leader at the right time.

We believe in a bright future for Downey, and re-electing Dorothy Pemberton to the City Council is an essential step in ensuring that progress continues. Her leadership has already laid a strong foundation, and we are confident she will continue to guide District 3—and our city—toward a future we can all be proud of.

For these reasons, the Downey Patriot endorses Dorothy Pemberton for re-election to the Downey City Council.