Hosted by Contra Costa County Bar Association & League of Women Voters of the Diablo Valley
Meet Judge Jesse Hsieh and Stanislaus County Deputy District Attorney Valery Polyakov
By Jody Iorns, Executive Director, Contra Costa County Bar Association
PLEASANT HILL, CA — The Contra Costa County Bar Association (CCCBA) and the League of Women Voters of the Diablo Valley are pleased to invite the public to a free Judicial Candidate Forum on Thursday, April 30, 2026, from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM at the Performing Arts Center at Diablo Valley College, 321 Golf Club Road, Pleasant Hill.
The forum will feature the two candidates vying for Position Q on the Contra Costa County Superior Court: Judge Jesse Hsieh (jesseforjudge2026.com) and Valery Polyakov, a Deputy District Attorney in Stanislaus County (polyakov4judge.com). This forum is an important opportunity for community members to hear directly from both candidates on their qualifications, judicial philosophy, and vision for the court.
Why This Forum Matters: A Rare Opportunity for Voters
Contested judicial elections are exceptionally rare in California. Under state law, incumbent judges who face no opposition do not appear on the ballot at all — meaning most voters never have the chance to weigh in on who sits on their local bench. When a judicial seat is contested, as it is here, it represents a unique and significant moment in our democracy. The June 2026 primary will give Contra Costa County voters a direct voice in who fills Position Q on their Superior Court — a responsibility that deserves informed participation. This forum is one of the only public opportunities to hear both candidates speak before Election Day.
The event is open to all members of the public. Admission is free. While walk-ins are welcome, early registration is encouraged to help with planning. Members of the public are invited to reserve their seats online at:
Register Here — CCCBA Event Page
About the Hosts
The Contra Costa County Bar Association (CCCBA) empowers its attorney members to deliver outstanding legal service while connecting members of the public to valuable legal resources and assistance.
The League of Women Voters of the Diablo Valley is a nonpartisan, civic organization that encourages informed and active participation in government and influences public policy through education and advocacy.
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