Long-time Fresno County Supervisor Ernest “Buddy” Mendes announced Wednesday he will not seek reelection in 2026, and endorsed former Fresno County Sheriff Margaret Mims for the District 4 seat.

Mendes’ announcement and endorsement of Mims — long rumored in local political circles — came even though Mendes had filed this year to run for his fourth term on the board in 2026.

Mendes said he will serve out of the remainder of his term.

Mims, whose conservative politics largely mirror those of Mendes, will join State Center Community College District Trustee Danielle Para of Fowler and Parlier Mayor Alma Beltran in the District 4 contest. The district is in the southern portion of the county and includes Selma, Reedley, and Coalinga.

“She knows this county,” Mendes said of Mims.

The super

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