%20(1).png)
Nelson Esparza is a true son of the Central Valley. Raised by a single teen mother in Madera, Nelson spent his early years living with his grandparents until his mother married the man he calls his father today. As the oldest of five children, Nelson faced significant challenges, including developing asthma by the age of three due to the poor valley air quality, leading to multiple hospitalizations during his childhood. Spanish was Nelson's first language, but he became fluent in English by the time he started preschool, showcasing his adaptability and resilience from a young age.
Nelson and his mom
Nelson's deep connection to his community has driven his dedication to public service. In 2016, he was elected as a Trustee on the Fresno County Board of Education, where he worked tirelessly to support local schools and students. In 2018, he was elected to the Fresno City Council, where he is currently serving his second term. On the City Council, Nelson serves as Chairman of the Finance & Audit Committee, the EIFD Public Financing Authority, and the School Liaison Subcommittee. He is also a member of the Fresno County Economic Development Corporation Board.
Outside his work in Fresno City Hall, Nelson continues to teach as an Economics Instructor at Fresno City College, where he has worked for nearly a decade. He is also the PAC Chair of the State Center Federation of Teachers, Local 1533, and actively serves the Democratic Party in various capacities. Nelson holds a B.A. in Economics from UC Riverside and a Master of Public Policy from the UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs.
Since joining the Fresno City Council, Nelson has prioritized increasing public safety, bringing affordable housing to the inner city, supporting working families, and ensuring equitable infrastructure investment across all parts of Fresno. He has championed several key initiatives, including generating new revenue streams for the city, which are reinvested into repairing outdated infrastructure, expanding park spaces and amenities, and designing roadway improvement projects to enhance traffic safety.
Councilmember Nelson Esparza's journey from his humble beginnings in Madera to his influential role in Fresno City Hall is a testament to his dedication to public service and his community. Now running for State Senate, Nelson continues his commitment to education, economic development, and equitable infrastructure investment, driving positive change for all residents.
MEET NELSON
