Clayton Moshe Saunders is an entrepreneur, national security advisor, and community advocate running for City Council in Beverly Hills. With a career rooted in public service, business leadership, and global security, Saunders brings a disciplined, solutions-oriented approach to addressing the challenges facing one of the world’s most iconic cities.

Raised in a military family as the son of a retired U.S. Army colonel, Saunders developed an early commitment to service, leadership, and civic responsibility. He has built a diverse professional career spanning government contracting, hospitality, and international consulting, founding and leading multiple companies while working closely with policymakers on issues related to public safety and national security.

Saunders currently serves in a senior leadership role as West Coast Ambassador for the Gold Institute for International Strategy, where he collaborates with leaders and advisors in both Washington, D.C. and Southern California on global policy and security initiatives.

In his campaign for City Council, Saunders has made public safety his top priority, particularly as Beverly Hills prepares for the expansion of the Metro system. He advocates for increased law enforcement presence at transit stations, expanded surveillance infrastructure, and enhanced protections for schools, places of worship, and residential neighborhoods.

Beverly Hills is entering a four-year period of unprecedented foot traffic. An estimated 3,000 to 5,000 new daily Metro riders will arrive at Wilshire and La Cienega in May 2026. The World Cup is expected to bring more than 180,000 visitors that June, followed by an estimated 1 to 1.5 million additional visitors during the 2028 Olympics, all entering a city of just 32,000 residents. Saunders’ force-multiplier strategy redirects Ambassador spending into a Real-Time Assistance Center, AI-integrated CCTV, and Drone-as-a-First-Responder coverage that can provide real-time visibility within 60 seconds. His plan also includes a 500-foot zero-tolerance zone around every transit hub.

Beyond safety, Saunders is focused on closing the city’s projected $20 million deficit without new taxes on residents. His plan includes a Market Vitality Fee on commercial storefronts that remain vacant for more than 180 days, modeled on a program in Vancouver that reduced vacancies by 54 percent. Revenue from this policy would be restricted to a dedicated Safety Lockbox to fund protection for houses of worship, schools, and business corridors. He has also pledged to reject campaign funds for personal use and to decline City Council financial benefits.

A convert to Judaism, Saunders has spoken publicly about his commitment to combating antisemitism and standing firmly against all forms of hate. His campaign reflects a broader vision of civic unity, cultural respect, and community-driven leadership.

Through his combined experience in business, policy, and public service, Clayton Moshe Saunders aims to bring strong leadership, accountability, and a renewed focus on safety and community values to the future of Beverly Hills.