I have some big news to share – I’ve declared my candidacy to be your next state Senator! Here’s the story from the San Diego Union-Tribune.
In 2014, I ran for Encinitas City Council to continue four generations of my family’s servant leadership in our hometown. I pursued public office to fight for faster environmental progress, infrastructure improvements and a high quality of life for all of our residents.
Seven years later, we’ve seen tremendous progress in these areas and the work continues, as it always will.
Why I’m running
I’m running for a legislative office now because, as a local elected leader, it’s clear that many important decisions that affect our lives are made at the state level.
This is a critical time for California. The challenges facing all communities have become starker – affordable housing, homelessness, health care, quality jobs, education, and climate change are all interrelated and require systemic solutions, not just political talk.
First as your Mayor and hopefully as your state Senator, my priorities are sustainability, opportunity and prosperity. In short, to improve our lives and protect our planet for future generations.
We need leaders committed to an equitable state-wide economic recovery — a rising tide that will raise all ships, as our economy rebounds from the devastation of the pandemic.
In many ways, my governance approach as a state legislator will remain the same as it’s been as your mayor. I’ll build consensus, transparently communicate, bridge divides and remain laser-focused on results.
Given the many overlapping electoral districts, you may not know the boundaries of our state senate district, but now you do (see map above)!
California has 40 state senators, and they each represent about a million people. This senate seat in the 36th District spans northern San Diego County and southern Orange County. It’s currently represented by Orange County Republican Pat Bates, who is terming out of office in 2022.
Successful campaigns organize early. There may be multiple candidates from both parties in both counties, which is why I’m announcing my candidacy now. Raising money, creating campaign infrastructure, providing effective communication, and building relationships all need to take place well ahead of time.
I’m honored to have already been endorsed by more than 40 local elected and civic leaders, including the majority of the Democratic delegation that represents San Diego County at the state legislature. I will be announcing more endorsements soon.
I love the City of Encinitas and feel tremendous pride as a resident and leader of our magical city. Running for state senate is not a decision I make lightly – there are so many parts of the work in Encinitas that are impactful and I find satisfying. However, the chance to make a positive difference at the state level is an exciting opportunity.
As always, I’ll strive to better our city and our region, operating from a place of compassion, political courage and a deep commitment to the civic trust that’s built through transparency. I believe that trust is the foundation of our functioning democracy – and people trust the processes that they can see.
For four years as your Encinitas Mayor and two years as your Encinitas City Councilmember, you have trusted me to elevate and evaluate the honest diversity in our community’s conversations, to be bold when facing challenges, and to forge a path forward through consensus building
I hope that I’ve demonstrated through the many decisions I’ve made on this very public journey my ability to lead as your representative at a higher level.
I’m asking for your support
Soon after my first election, I traveled to Sacramento to advocate for Encinitas. It’s become increasingly clear how big an influence state policy has over our lives.
Now, more than ever, we need leaders who will bring us together to advance economic, social and environmental justice for every Californian.
Throughout my career, I have bridged divides, found common ground, and built coalitions to win elections, deliver for constituents, and strengthen our communities. I would be honored to have your support to continue this work as our next state Senator! The campaign contribution limit for this state legislative race is $4,900, a big leap from our Encinitas maximum of $250! If you’re able to donate any amount, please do so here so that we can start this campaign with a strong showing of support from our community:
And if you would like to volunteer to help my campaign to victory, please click this button:
It is truly my honor to serve as your Encinitas mayor, and to be on this journey with you. I am grateful for your past encouragement and I hope I’ve earned your future backing. If you would like to see my list of announced endorsements, please click here, and you can visit my state senate campaign website here.
When we work together, anything is possible!
With deep gratitude for your continued support,
