Committed to a safer, stronger Merced.
John Bliss is a lifelong Merced County resident, father, teacher, and coach running for Merced City Council District 6. His campaign is built around safe streets, a thriving downtown, and real solutions to homelessness.
It's a people-powered movement. Every dollar helps John reach more voters across District 6 before November.
The choice of Merced law enforcement and firefighters, and the leaders we trust.
"John Bliss has a record built on helping others. I trust John to be a champion for safe streets and support the men and women who protect our neighborhoods."
— Vern Warnke,
Merced County Sheriff
Endorsements
Daron McDaniel, Merced County Supervisor
Jim Pacheco, Merced County Supervisor
Kevin Blake, Fmr. Merced City Councilmember
Delray Shelton, Fmr. Merced City Councilmember
Merced City Firefighters, IAFF Local 1479
Merced Police Officers Association
Citizens for the Betterment of Merced County
North Coast States Carpenters Union
*Partial List
Father. Teacher. Coach.
A lifetime invested in Merced
John Bliss has never known a home other than Merced. He grew up in this town, was educated in its schools, and has spent his entire adult life giving back to the community that raised him. For John, District 6 isn't a district on a map — it's the streets he's walked his whole life and the community where he raised his kids.
For nearly 40 years, John taught high school history at Merced County Schools, where he saw firsthand what Merced families need to succeed: safe neighborhoods, good schools, and a local economy that gives their kids a reason to stay.
Outside the classroom, he coached basketball with his children and countless students, spending seasons building discipline, teamwork, and character in Merced's next generation.
This spring, John's recent retirement opened a rare opportunity: the chance to serve Merced full-time. After decades spent teaching and coaching the city's kids, he's ready to bring that same hands-on commitment to City Hall.
Safe streets, strong public safety
Roads and infrastructure that work
Fully staff the Merced police and fire departments to shorten response times, back the officers and first responders who put their lives on the line, and enforce anti-camping and nuisance laws consistently.
Repair potholes and improve road conditions in every neighborhood, prioritize long-term street maintenance, and upgrade traffic signals to ease congestion and keep District 6 moving safely.
Growing a strong local economy
Keep downtown clean and safe for jobs and events, cut red tape and streamline permits for small businesses, improve lighting and public spaces, and bring families and students back downtown.
Homelessness: accountability with care
Expand partnerships with county mental health and addiction services, prioritize transitional housing and job placement, and consistently enforce the laws that protect neighborhoods and businesses.