FOLSOM, Calif. — A Folsom City Council candidate was allegedly threatened Thursday in response to her volunteer's campaign practices. She and another candidate have also been the target of sexist or racist remarks during the race for council, they said.
Someone allegedly recorded a voicemail for Barbara Leary, who’s running for District 4, and threatened physical violence after one of her volunteers left a flyer at their doorstep.
“The recommended practice in campaign training for candidates is to knock on doors to introduce yourself to residents, give a brief summary of why you're running and ask about their concerns and answer questions they may have,” Leary said. “If not home, a piece of literature is left.”
Leary said the voicemail was left Thursday night and she heard it Friday morning. She immediately called police, and the person was identified through campaign records, she said.
“It was frightening and intimidating as the caller, whose name will not be shared, noted that it was not a threat but a promise,” Leary said.
Police said they are assessing what laws may have been violated by the call.
“We take threats seriously and are committed to protecting the integrity of the election process,” said Folsom Police Department spokesperson Cmdr. Andrew Bates.
Leary said she advised her volunteers to travel in pairs after the threat of physical violence. She independently reported to ABC10 falling victim to gender discrimination in the form of misogynistic comments during her campaign.
Negative comments toward other candidates
Gul Khan, another District 4 candidate, reported being the target of several racist remarks while campaigning for the council seat.
On social media and in person, Khan said people have made comments such as, “Go back to your country,” and, “You immigrants are trying to take over America.” In a separate, non-racist incident, he said someone called him a “socialist.”
“While I don’t know these individuals personally, I’m certain they don’t reflect the values of the majority in Folsom — a diverse and welcoming community,” Khan said. “I’ve lived here for over 15 years without experiencing racism, and I’ve never let comments like these affect me…Those who make such remarks do not represent the spirit of our city, and my dedication to serve remains stronger than ever.”
He told ABC10 he reaches out to Folsom residents who have shown incredible support.
“Hate and intolerance have no place in America, and I condemn any form of intolerance or threats toward anyone in this race,” he said.
Leary said it is entirely unacceptable to call out candidates on the basis of race.
Jim Ortega, who’s also running to represent District 4, said he has not received any threats or racist remarks, but there have been several lies circulated about him, which he ignores.
“Voters in Council District 4 have a choice and should base their vote on the candidate's vision, experience and qualifications to serve as a council member,” Ortega said.
Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 5. Information on where Leary, Khan and Ortega stand on the major issues facing the Folsom community can be found HERE.
