Vicky Frausto dismisses petitions as “destructive” and says opponents can “see me in court”

SUNNYSIDE, WA. – Less than six months after being elected Mayor, Vicky Frausto is facing a recall effort that supporters say is less about accountability and more about politics.

Flyers promoting a “No Queens Rally” have begun circulating online, targeting both Frausto and Councilmember Julia Hart. The campaign alleges violations of state law, including claims that Frausto interfered with hiring decisions and improperly shared confidential information from executive sessions.

Frausto isn’t backing down.

“It’s just rhetoric and it’s destructive and it is false,” Frausto told Apple Valley News Now. “I will continue doing the work that I was meant to do while I am elected and while I am here, and that is to center the community and their needs.”

She added, “If there ever is something that I have to address at any given time, then I will see them in court. That is going to be the slogan. I live by it. I will see you in court.”

First Latina Mayor Continues Advocacy

Frausto became mayor earlier this year and made history as Sunnyside’s first Latina mayor. According to the City of Sunnyside, she is the daughter of immigrants, holds degrees from the University of Washington and Seattle University, and has emphasized representation and community engagement throughout her public service career.

She has also been active with Empowering Latina Leaders and Action (ELLA), an organization known for advocating for Latina leadership and environmental justice, and has remained outspoken on issues affecting Sunnyside’s majority Hispanic population.

Political Opponents See Opportunity

Sources familiar with local politics tell La Voz Hispanic News that longtime critics of the current council majority have helped fuel the recall effort.

Among those frequently mentioned by residents is Kenton Gartrell, who recently found himself at the center of controversy after being removed from the Climate Commitment Committee following disputes involving his conduct.

Others point to Monica Niemeyer, a frequent online commentator whose lengthy videos and social media posts have made her one of the most recognizable critics of City Hall.

Supporters of Frausto argue that criticism comes with public office, but question whether the constant stream of online outrage and political drama is helping Sunnyside solve real problems.

A Familiar Pattern

To many residents, the recall effort feels like a continuation of the political infighting that has consumed Sunnyside for years.

The city has endured budget crises, lawsuits, investigations, recalls, bitter elections, and deeply divided council meetings.

Former Councilmembers Theresa Hancock and Vicky Ripley, both highly polarizing figures, were ultimately rejected by voters by wide margins. Yet critics say the culture of constant conflict they helped foster continues to influence public discourse.

Hancock remains active at council meetings, often voicing criticism of city policies and officials.

Supporters view her as a watchdog.

Critics see something different — a political style built on confrontation, grievance, and perpetual outrage.

Residents Tired of Drama

While recall organizers prepare for their first signature gathering on the Fourth of July, many residents appear exhausted by another chapter in Sunnyside’s endless political wars.

For supporters of Mayor Frausto, the question is simple:

Will Sunnyside continue fighting yesterday’s battles?

Or will it finally focus on tomorrow?