Emma Sharif
By Emilie St. John
Contributing Writer
COMPTON — Mayor Emma Sharif is facing backlash over hosting a campaign fundraiser outside of the city limits.
The Sharif for Mayor 2026 campaign committee is hosting a high-profile campaign fundraiser in Inglewood at WePlay Studios which is 14 miles from the city.
Residents have noted that it gives a bad perception that the fundraiser isn’t being hosted closer to Compton.
Sharif could not be reached for comment.
The Oct. 4 fundraiser will feature a special appearance by Inglewood Mayor James T. Butts Jr. and performances by Compton artist Buddy, featuring Faucet, will round out the three-hour event.
The fundraiser has several fundraising levels. An ally of Sharif is requested to contribute $50, a partner is requested to contribute $1,000 and a champion is requested to contribute $25,000.
One social media commenter attributed the location and appearance by Mayor Butts as an indicator that gentrification will advance at greater speed if Sharif is reelected. Butts is a member of the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s Board of Directors, which just extended a rail line that runs through Compton.
“Absolutely, irresponsible for Emma Sharif to be hosting a re-election campaign in Inglewood and $25,000 for a champion table means they are about to go full gentrification in the city of Compton,” said Inglewood resident Marvin McCoy.
”I think it’s a real insult to Compton residents to host a re-election campaign event outside of Compton. There are venues in the city, or even right in neighboring Carson. No need to hop 3 cities over and go to Inglewood. And bringing Butts into the fold is a clear indicator of the type of time she’s on,” wrote one resident on social media.
Mohammad Pournamdari, a hotel developer with extensive holdings in Inglewood and a contributor to Mayor Butts, has contributed $1,500 to Sharif’s campaign. Many of his hotels in Inglewood are in close proximity to the Green Line.
Compton will hold its election on June 2, 2026.
Emilie St. John is a freelance journalist covering the areas of Carson, Compton, Inglewood and Willowbrook. Send tips to her at emiliesaintjohn@gmail.com.
