leticia Zesati Is The Clear Choice over Theresa Hancock for A New Direction on the City Council

SUNNYSIDE, WA — Sunnyside native and current school board member Leticia Zesati has officially announced her campaign for Sunnyside City Council District 1, bringing a message of community, resilience, and opportunity to the heart of her city.

Zesati, the proud daughter of immigrant parents and a lifelong Sunnyside resident, says her candidacy is rooted in gratitude and responsibility. It’s why when she saw what was happening on the city council this year, in particular with Theresa Hancock, she decided to run.

“It’s because of my parents’ hard work, sacrifice, and determination that I have the opportunity to step forward today, to lead, to serve, and to give back to the community that raised me,” she said.

A mother of two — one preparing for high school and another finishing college — Zesati has deep personal ties to Sunnyside. She currently serves on the Sunnyside School Board, where she was appointed to fill a vacancy, and now seeks to expand her service at the city level.

Grounded in Equity and Service

Alongside her school board service, Zesati works with Washington State Labor & Industries (L&I). In that role, she has earned recognition for bringing a “heartfelt equity lens” to her work. She has championed policies that ensure workers — particularly those from underserved and immigrant communities — have equal access to workplace protections, fair treatment, and opportunities for advancement.

That experience, she says, shapes her vision for Sunnyside.

“Equity isn’t just a buzzword. It’s about making sure every voice is heard and every person is respected. That’s how we build trust, and that’s how we build a stronger Sunnyside.”

Campaign Priorities

Zesati has outlined four key priorities for her campaign:

• Bridging the Gap Between the City and Residents
• Enhancing Public Safety and Youth Engagement
• Ensuring Financial Transparency and Accountability
• Building Stronger Families, Opportunities, and Economic Success

“These priorities reflect not just policies but values,” she said. “I want every family and every child here to have the same chance to grow and succeed.”

A Different Approach Than Councilwoman Hancock

In the race for District 1, Zesati represents a clear change in leadership style compared to incumbent Theresa Hancock.

While Hancock has developed a reputation for division and personal conflicts, Zesati is offering a path forward built on collaboration, accountability, and respect. Where Hancock’s time on council has too often been defined by controversy and gridlock, Zesati says her focus is on solutions and unity.

“Our community deserves leaders who bring people together, not tear them apart. I want to focus on the issues that matter to families — safety, jobs, transparency, and opportunity — instead of political games,” Zesati said.

Supporters say the contrast is clear: Zesati is running to move Sunnyside forward, while Hancock’s style has held it back.

Endorsement from United Farm Workers

A significant milestone in her campaign came when the United Farm Workers (UFW) endorsed Zesati. For her, the endorsement is deeply personal.

Her parents spent more than 30 years working in the fields, an experience she recalls vividly from her childhood.

“I remember being out there with them as a kid — seeing the long hours, the physical toll, and the strength it took just to get by. Farmworkers are the backbone of our food system, and they deserve respect, protection, and a voice at every table where decisions are made,” Zesati said.

She emphasized that the UFW’s endorsement is not just about her campaign, but about standing with farmworker families across the valley.

Community Engagement

Zesati’s campaign has already been visible across Sunnyside. She marched in the 2025 Sunshine Days Parade, thanking volunteers and connecting with families throughout the community. She also appeared on Radio KDNA alongside her sister Sandra and Lorena from the UFW, where they spoke about family, heritage, and the sacrifices of farm work.

Her campaign slogan reflects her inclusive vision: “Para todos, for everyone.”

Call to Action

As this is her first full campaign, Zesati is asking for support from friends, family, and neighbors.

“Join me in making this shared vision a reality by making a donation today. Your support means so much as I work tirelessly to create a thriving community para todos, for everyone. Muchas gracias.”

Supporters can contribute through her campaign link: Donate Here.