Chen Outlines Vision for District 3 in Herald Interview

The following article was originally published by the Riverside Herald.

County Supervisor candidate Maria Chen sat down with the Herald last week to discuss her vision for District 3 and why she’s running for the Board of Supervisors.

Chen, 48, served on the Riverside City Council from 2018 to 2022 and owns Chen’s Bakery on Main Street. She’s running to replace retiring Supervisor Thomas Anderson.

On Housing:

“Housing affordability is the number one issue I hear about from residents,” Chen said. “Families that have lived here for generations are being priced out. We need to increase the housing supply while protecting existing residents from displacement.”

Chen pointed to her record on the City Council, where she passed an inclusionary housing ordinance requiring new developments to include affordable units.

On Public Safety:

“Every resident deserves to feel safe in their home and neighborhood,” Chen said. “But public safety isn’t just about policing—it’s about addressing the root causes of crime.”

Chen said she would support community policing initiatives and invest in youth programs that provide positive alternatives to gang involvement.

On Economic Development:

As a small business owner herself, Chen said she understands the challenges facing local entrepreneurs.

“I know what it’s like to make payroll, navigate regulations, and compete against big chains,” she said. “We need to support local businesses while also attracting new employers that bring good-paying jobs.”

The election will be held November 3, 2026.

Read the full interview at riversideherald.com