Meet Don Soja
A steady voice
for Palm Springs
Don Soja is running for Palm Springs City Council District 1 to bring thoughtful leadership, community focus, and practical problem-solving to City Hall.
DON’S Story
Rooted in service
Don Soja’s campaign is grounded in a simple belief: local government works best when it listens closely, plans responsibly, and delivers results that improve daily life for residents.
With a statesmanlike approach and a deep respect for community voices, Don is focused on protecting neighborhood character, strengthening public trust, and helping Palm Springs move forward with confidence.
Values
What guides Don
Don’s campaign centers on practical leadership and a commitment to representing District 1 with integrity, transparency, and care.
Responsible decision-making
Neighborhood-first leadership
Transparent public service
Long-term community stewardship
Experience
Prepared to lead
This campaign is built to show voters that Don brings the judgment, discipline, and civic mindset needed to help Palm Springs address today’s challenges while planning wisely for the future.
From community engagement to thoughtful policy conversations, Don’s focus is on listening carefully, building consensus, and keeping District 1 at the center of every decision.
My Bio
For nearly two decades, Palm Springs has been my home and my community—and serving the people who live here has been one of the most rewarding parts of my life.
Most recently, I served as Vice Chair of the City of Palm Springs Human Rights Commission, completing my term in June 2026. I brought to the Commission a strong commitment to equal rights and equal opportunities for every Palm Springs resident. I believe our city should always be a welcoming, safe and inclusive community for everyone.
From Michigan to Palm Springs
I was born in Michigan into a hardworking, blue-collar immigrant family. My parents taught me from an early age to respect others, work hard and help people in need.
My first job came at age 12, delivering the Detroit Free Press in my small Michigan village. After college, I began my professional career with General Motors as a personnel analyst before moving into the commercial airline industry, where I spent 33 years.
Those experiences reinforced values that have stayed with me throughout my life: hard work, responsibility, listening to people and treating everyone with dignity.
Nearly 20 Years of Service to Palm Springs
Since making Palm Springs my home, I have been deeply involved in our neighborhoods and community.
In 2007, I was a founding member of the neighborhood organization that became One-PS. I later served for many years as President of the Racquet Club West Neighborhood Organization and today continue to participate in One-PS as a representative of my Mountain Gate neighborhood.
My community service has also included many years as a volunteer with the Palm Springs Police Department’s Citizens on Patrol program.
I have volunteered with the Palm Springs Animal Shelter, and today I participate in its kitten and puppy foster program. I have volunteered with The Center and its food bank, and for several years I have helped feed people experiencing homelessness and others in need on Saturday mornings at Palm Springs United Methodist Church.
These aren’t simply organizations whose names I know. They are places where I’ve spent my time, met my neighbors, listened to their concerns and worked alongside other Palm Springs residents for the betterment of others.
If elected, I will make serving on the Palm Springs City Council a full-time commitment. I will listen, I will be accessible, and I will work to represent all of the residents of District 1.
I would be honored to have your support and your vote on November 3, 2026.
Don Soja
Candidate for Palm Springs City Council, District 1