Two unaffiliated Aurora City Council candidates join to ditch ‘partisan politics’

AURORA | Two unaffiliated Aurora City Council candidates say they are ditching the partisan politics by supporting each other and running together.

Pastor Reid Hettich in Ward I and at-large candidate Watson Gomes are joining their forces “to challenge the status quo” in Aurora’s city council election this year, according to a statement from the two candidates.

While both candidates are religious and more left-leaning with their views, neither is affiliated with a specific party, intentionally, they say. 

“Our city is ready for leaders who put people firs t— not political parties,” Reid said in a statement. “By joining with Watson, we can amplify independent voices and create a movement that truly reflects Aurora’s diverse community.”

This decision came after what both candidates say was a productive and uplifting meeting they  had recently over coffee, Gomes said in the statement. The conversation was inspiring, reaffirming their shared commitment to prioritizing the community, Gomes said.

Their joining of forces is to bring fresh, community-focused leadership to Aurora, according to the statement.

“Together, we are challenging the entrenched dominance of political parties in our city’s elections, offering voters a credible and independent alternative,” Watson said in a statement. “I share that vision wholeheartedly. Aurora deserves leadership that listens, leads with integrity, and prioritizes solutions over partisanship.”

By partnering with Hettich, Gomes said he wants to show that independents can come together and give voters the real choice they deserve.

“Together, we believe this united effort represents a historic opportunity to reshape Aurora’s political narrative and empower residents with leadership grounded in collaboration, inclusivity, and sustainable growth,” Gomes said in the statement.

To build momentum and engage with residents, Reid and Gomes said they are inviting the community to be part of the United for Independents effort. Their campaign websites are www.Reid4Aurora.com and www.WatsonForAurora.com. They also encourage community members to reach out directly. 

“We are here to listen, share ideas, strengthen relationships, and discuss a new vision for Aurora’s future,” the statement said. 

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