I'm running to help life make sense again.

Small Business Owner & Community Advocate

Paul Chakalian is a small business owner and dad who understands the real challenges facing working families in Yucca Valley and across our district. As the founder of Joshua Tree Distilling Co., he knows the struggle of running a small business in California — from navigating skyrocketing costs of healthcare, housing, and taxes to managing burdensome regulations that make it difficult to get ahead. Paul has experienced these challenges firsthand, working from home to raise his two young sons due to the high cost of housing and childcare.

Located in the Morongo Basin,

Paul comes from a family of small business owners with roots in this region for nearly two decades. His journey began early, helping at his parents' bookstore as a teenager and learning the value of hard work and community. Today, he's built a successful craft distillery that provides jobs and supports the local economy, donating between 2–5% of its revenue every year to over two dozen local community organizations.

. . . incumbent Jay Obernolte has consistently voted to protect big corporations and special interests . . .

While incumbent Jay Obernolte has consistently voted to protect big corporations and special interests, Paul is committed to championing the needs of small businesses and working families. With a deep understanding of local economic challenges, and an education in environmental science, he brings a people-first perspective focused on balanced and practical solutions to improve lives and livelihoods.

Paul believes in the American dream and our right to pursue our own happiness, and he thinks we need real change to deliver that promise. If elected, he would work across the aisle to provide concrete improvements in our communities by reducing costs for working families, supporting businesses and schools, and ensuring access to quality healthcare and our shared natural spaces. His approach is grounded in real-world experience and a genuine commitment to the people of our district, offering a stark contrast to the out-of-touch leadership that has failed to address the economic pressures facing our region.