Statement: Diocese of Fresno Condemns Press Conference

On Friday, February 27, 2026, the Diocese of Fresno’s Office of Public Affairs was alerted by an on-site security system that members of the media had gathered on the public street outside the locked gates of St. John’s Cathedral.

Through direct communication with local media representatives, we learned that Mr. Rene Campos, a registered child sex offender and candidate for Fresno City Council, had scheduled a press conference on the public sidewalk adjacent to Cathedral property. Neither the Diocese of Fresno nor St. John’s Cathedral received prior notice of this event.

Upon learning of the gathering, the Office of Public Affairs urgently communicated concern regarding Mr. Campos’ proximity to Big Picture Elementary School, particularly given it was understood students were still on campus at the time.

Big Picture Elementary School is not operated by the Diocese of Fresno.

While the event occurred on a public sidewalk, the Diocese takes seriously its unwavering commitment to Child & Youth protection. 

Mr. Campos independently and irresponsibly chose the location for the press conference and used the Catholic Church and the School as props in his theater of politics. Bishop Joseph Brennan and the Diocese of Fresno strongly condemn Mr. Campos’s decision. 

The Diocese of Fresno has a long-standing history of civic engagement with elected officials and candidates across the political spectrum. Such engagement is rooted in communication, transparency and collegial community collaboration. This collaborative approach is clearly not of mind for Mr. Campos. 

The Diocese of Fresno wishes to make it abundantly clear that while the Catholic Church has a responsibility to engage with civic leaders, the Church does not endorse Mr. Campos or any other candidate. 

We charitably pray for all elected officials and candidates, that they will hold themselves accountable and work to unify our communities.

Chandler Marquez 
Director of Public Affairs