The Redding Rancheria’s Government Affairs Manager, Lane Rickard, announced that the tribe‑funded Sovereign Voices PAC has poured over $32,000 into the 2026 Redding City Council race. The money was used for independent expenditures – radio advertisements and mailed flyers – that promote four candidates who understand the intergovernmental relationship between the Tribal council and the Redding City Council.

How the PAC money was spent

According to campaign‑filing documents, roughly $21,000 went toward radio spots and $11,000 funded direct‑mail mailers. The PAC’s name on the filings reads “Sovereign Voice PAC sponsored by Redding Rancheria, in support of Mezzano for City Council 2026,” reflecting the initial focus on Mark Mezzano. Rancheria officials say the scope later expanded to include Christina Prosperi, Paul Saulsbury and Elise Ramirez Sloan.

Candidates’ responses

Mezzano told Shasta Scout he was not fully aware of the exact amount the tribe contributed and noted the tribe had not consulted him on how the funds were used. Ramirez Sloan confirmed she has been endorsed by the Rancheria but has no input on the PAC’s spending, adding she hopes the city and tribe can build stronger ties. Saulsbury acknowledged the radio ads supporting his campaign and emphasized his independence, saying, “I appreciate the Rancheria’s support and their confidence in my candidacy, but I remain independent and committed to making decisions based on what I believe is best for the residents of Redding.” Prosperi clarified that she did not receive a direct contribution from the tribe.

Tribe’s rationale

Rickard explained that the PAC was created to level the playing field with a neighboring tribe, the Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians, whose past donations supported candidates perceived as opposing Redding Rancheria. By backing candidates who treat the tribe fairly, the Rancheria aims to ensure respectful collaboration on issues that affect both the tribal community and the city.

Financial overview

The Rancheria has contributed more than $40,000 to the PAC’s account, with about $32,000 already spent. The majority of that spending has gone toward Mezzano’s campaign, though the other three candidates have also benefited from the radio and mailer outreach.

What this means for Redding voters

For residents heading to the polls, the PAC’s independent expenditures represent a clear signal from the Rancheria about which candidates they believe will honor tribal sovereignty and work cooperatively with the city government. Voters can review the radio ads and mailed flyers for each candidate to gauge how the tribe’s priorities align with their own concerns about local governance, public safety, and community development.

Looking ahead

As the 2026 council race progresses, the Rancheria’s involvement underscores the importance of tribal‑city partnerships in shaping Redding’s future. The PAC’s spending highlights the tribe’s commitment to ensuring that elected officials understand and respect tribal sovereignty, a cornerstone of stable, family‑focused community governance.

Original reporting: Shasta Scout (Redding) — read the source article.