Fresno businessman AJ Rassamni, a leader along the Blackstone corridor, has launched a campaign for the Fresno City Council.
Rassamni is running in District 7 in 2026, which will be open with Councilman Nelson Esparza terming out of office.
Driving the news: Rassamni is the founder of the Blackstone Merchants Association and has owned and operated the Great American Car Wash in central Fresno for 15 years.
- Along with his business, Rassamni started Success from Within in 2022, a nonprofit dedicated to helping at-risk youth through mentorship and skill-building programs.
What we’re watching: Rassamni is the third candidate to enter the race to succeed Esparza, following Nav Gurm and Ariana Martinez Lott.
- Gurm, a former Esparza staffer, has already secured the backing of Esparza and fellow City Councilmembers Annalisa Perea and Tyler Maxwell along with Fresno County Supervisor Luis Chavez, former Supervisor Henry R. Perea, and Fresno County Assessor Paul Dictos.
- Last week, Gurm secured the backing of Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer.
- Lott has won the support of California State Assemblyman – and upcoming Fresno City Council contender – Joaquin Arambula (D-Fresno).
What he’s saying: Rassamni said in his campaign announcement that his original plan was not to run for the city council, but his work behind the scenes as the founder of the Blackstone Merchants Association jumpstarted his work in civil service.
- He said Esparza was one of his strongest allies in supporting businesses along the Blackstone corridor, but the area could be at a turning point with Esparza leaving office.
- “Without strong leadership, Blackstone risks being forgotten again. And that’s something I simply cannot allow,” Rassamni wrote. “That’s why I’ve decided to step forward – to protect the progress we’ve made and push even harder for the safety, prosperity, and representation our community deserves.”
