Author: Sam Fant

Sam Fant, was born and raised in Stockton, California, to a father who served as a firefighter and a mother who worked as a counselor in a women’s center. From a young age, he was inspired by a strong sense of public service and community advocacy. At just 21 years old, Sam became one of the youngest appointed officials to the Stockton Planning Commission, rising to chairman by the age of 23. His commitment to leadership and his ability to effect change led to his historic appointment as the first African American director of the Second Agricultural District in California, a position he was appointed to by the governor. In 2012, he continued to break barriers by becoming the first African American and the youngest elected member of the Board of Education, where he served for four years. While serving on the school board, Sam made significant changes by challenging the entrenched “good ol’ boy” network and fighting for equitable funding for the poorest, highest-taxed areas of the school district. These efforts brought much-needed resources to communities that had been overlooked for decades. Sam’s impact extended beyond education. He successfully led the effort to rename a street in Stockton that hosts the first Sikh Temple in North America to Sikh Temple Street, which has since become a major tourist attraction and a point of pride for the community. After an initial foray into public service, Sam transitioned to the private sector, where he has become even more influential. He is a senior partner at Steinberg & Price Holdings, serving as a top political, land use, and financial consultant. Additionally, Sam is a multifaceted business owner with interests in real estate. Sam also attended the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Academy, becoming POST-certified in the Peace Officer Standards and Training. His diverse career reflects his commitment to serving others, whether through public office, community projects, or private sector leadership. In his role as a political consultant, Sam has worked with and won campaigns for both Republicans and Democrats. He avoids strict adherence to party-entrenched politics, choosing instead to support candidates who align with his ideological standpoints and values. Sam emphasizes common sense and shared principles, bridging partisan divides to promote meaningful leadership and progress. A self-described independent thinker, Sam values free thought and practical solutions over rigid affiliations. His journey exemplifies a balance of public service, private enterprise, and an unwavering dedication to his community.