Jesse Dominguez Running For Fredericksburg City Council: Questionnaire

FREDERICKSBURG, VA — Jesse Dominguez, whose jobs include being an FCPS substitute and event planner, says the biggest issue facing Fredericksburg voters is not knowing what their local government is up to.

"Too often, important decisions are made without people being fully aware until it’s too late," he said. "I intend to fix that by making communication a priority."

Dominguez is one of two candidates running in the Nov. 4 general election for the Ward Four seat on the Fredericksburg City Council. He faces opponent Charlie Frye. Early voting begins on Friday, Sept 19.

As part of its coverage of the 2025 election, Patch has asked each of the candidates in the Fredericksburg City Council race to fill out a questionnaire to describe why they think they're the best person to fill the job for which they're running. The following are Dominguez's responses.

Your Name

Jesse Dominguez

Position Sought

City Council Ward 4

Age

26

Family

Elizabeth & Jesus Dominguez

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? This includes any relatives who work in the government you're a candidate in.

My mother is a 20 year long EL teacher at FCPS.

Education

Bachelor of Arts VCU

Occupation

Part-Time FXBG worker. Parks, Rec & Events. FCPS Sub. Film Producer. Event Planner.

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Political Office

None

Why are you seeking elective office?

I’m seeking office to give people hope — hope that their representatives truly care and actually represent them. Even in a chaotic world, our little corner can be peaceful, supportive, and full of pride. I want to ensure every voice is heard, every concern acknowledged, and every resident respected. My vision is for a city where neighborhoods are cared for, children grow up safe and joyful, and families feel proud to call Fredericksburg home. I’m running for the people who live here, to make our city not only a great place to stay, but a place people are excited to move to, raise families in, and visit — a city that shows the rest of the country what it means to be healthy, happy, and united.

The single most pressing issue facing voters is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

The biggest issue is that residents simply don’t know what’s happening in their own local government. Too often, important decisions are made without people being fully aware until it’s too late. I intend to fix that by making communication a priority. I will work closely with every neighborhood organization and support them in keeping their residents informed. Whether someone prefers texts, emails, or a monthly letter in the mail, they should be able to choose how they receive updates. Right now, the burden is on busy parents, students, and workers to hunt down information. It should be the city’s job to keep everyone in the loop, because an informed community is the only way to boost voter turnout, civic participation, and pride in Fredericksburg.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I bring a fresh perspective that others simply cannot. I’m not waiting until I’m older to make a difference — I’m stepping up now because our city deserves new ideas today. I know where our history has been, but I’m also going to be here for the history that’s yet to come. I understand the concerns of younger residents, but I also value the wisdom of older generations. My goal is to bring those perspectives together so Fredericksburg can grow without losing its roots.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)?

The biggest failure is a lack of connection. While knocking on doors, I’ve met countless people who don’t even know who represents them, what ward they live in, or even who the mayor is. Downtown businesses often say the same thing—they’ve never heard from their council member. That shows a serious disconnect. Current officeholders have taken their positions for granted, making decisions that affect all of us without properly engaging the public. Too often, the community only learns about an issue at the last minute, when it’s already a problem.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

Too many decisions are being delayed, and it’s making problems worse. Pedestrian safety is one example: multiple people have been hit by cars downtown, yet the city has studied traffic for seven years without trying temporary fixes. With train station upgrades, we’re inviting visitors to dangerous streets full of speeding cars and confusing traffic patterns. Our bus system is outdated, unreliable, and nearly impossible to navigate even for locals. Guests and residents alike deserve safe, reliable transportation.

Another issue is neighborhood pride and connection. I often see one well-kept yard right next to a house where the sidewalk is overgrown. Instead of letting that divide us, neighbors and their organizations should work together to lend a hand where it’s needed. Cleaner, safer streets make neighborhoods stronger and show that Fredericksburg takes care of its own. Cities are about the people who live in them, and my campaign is about putting them first.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

A teacher once told me, “Your looks will get you any acting gig you want. Stick with acting and you’ll make it.” It wasn’t meant kindly, and it lit a fire in me. I didn’t want success handed to me because of how I looked—I wanted to earn it through hard work and dedication. That moment pushed me away from acting and toward service. I discovered that what truly drives me is helping others, building community, and making a real difference in people’s lives. That so-called “advice” made me determined to take a harder path—one built on effort, purpose, and service to others.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I’m not running for fame, glory, or power. If that’s what I wanted, I would have stayed in acting. I’m running because I care about Fredericksburg and its people. Everyone is searching for something—a purpose, a passion, or a sense of belonging. I believe that when we contribute to our community, we all gain peace and pride in return. My mission is to give you back your time, energy, and confidence in your local government. I will work for you, the residents—not for big corporations, not for a handful of voices, and not for outside interests.

I’m here to be your neighbor, your advocate, and your representative.

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