Statements made by two members of the Seaside City Council on January 12, 2026, have led to serious allegations of defamation from private citizen Brandon Kraft. Kraft claims that the remarks made during a council meeting were not only false but also damaging to his character. In a letter dated January 20, Kraft expressed his disappointment that local media outlet The Astorian had not reached out to him for a statement, despite requesting his contact information on January 16.
In his letter, Kraft emphasized his intention to address the situation at the upcoming Seaside City Council meeting scheduled for January 26. He invited community members to attend the meeting, encouraging them to share their perspectives or submit written comments via the city’s website. “In-person testimony would be especially meaningful,” he stated, highlighting the importance of community engagement in addressing the allegations.
Kraft’s letter stressed that the issue extends beyond his candidacy and touches on the integrity of elected officials. He accused them of making “demonstrably false statements” in what he perceives to be an attempt to undermine his reputation for personal or political gain. Kraft articulated that such actions fall short of the expectation to serve “faithfully and honorably.”
In an effort to clarify his position, Kraft firmly stated, “For the record, I’m not homophobic, and Netflix is my only watchlist.” This comment appears aimed at countering any implications made by the councilors regarding his character.
As the situation develops, it raises questions about the accountability of public officials and the impact of their statements on private citizens. The upcoming council meeting on January 26 could serve as a pivotal moment in this controversy, providing a platform for both Kraft and the council members to present their cases. Community members are urged to participate actively in this discussion, which could have lasting implications for local governance and public trust.
