Summary
On June 7, 2022, Francisco Diaz made history by becoming the youngest elected County Clerk-Recorder/Registrar of Voters in both San Benito County and the State of California.

Fracisco holds professional certifications from esteemed organizations such as the California State Association of Counties, County Recorders Association of California, and the National Association of Election Officials.

Background
Francisco, born and raised in Watsonville, grew up in a hardworking immigrant household that prioritized faith, family, and community. As the eldest of three siblings, he witnessed his father's relentless commitment to securing their college education while working as a carpet cleaner, while his mother, a passionate advocate and union organizer, managed a home daycare center.

He pursued his bachelor's degree in political science and history at Saint Mary’s College of California, seizing opportunities for growth through internships at the Immigration Institute of the Bay Area in Oakland and the Lasallian Service Ministry in Wisconsin.

Transitioning to the private sector, Francisco worked as a Labor Relations Representative for the California School Employees Association (CSEA) in Stockton. During his tenure, he negotiated collective bargaining agreements that significantly improved the wages, benefits, and workplace protections for union members.

In his role as Registrar of Voters, Francisco has become a leading voice for election security, enhancing ballot audits, and implementing registration reforms. His active engagement in local organizations and state committees has driven efforts to establish robust standards for election transparency.

While working full-time, Francisco pursued and achieved a master’s degree in public administration with a focus on fiscal management from Norwich University, graduating with honors.

He also serves as a Second Lieutenant and Brigade Officer with the California Cadet Corps and California Military Department, dedicating himself to mentoring students across various age groups within paramilitary youth organizations statewide.

Outside of his professional responsibilities, Francisco also volunteers with the following local organizations:

• Community Food Bank of San Benito
• Community Services Development Corporation
• County Chamber of Commerce
• League of United Latin American Citizens, Council 2890
• Toastmasters of San Benito
• Young Professionals Group