Why I’m Running
When I decided to run for County Supervisor, I wanted to make a difference. I have shared my vision and plan for stronger and healthier communities, and that vision is truer now, more than ever. Our district already faces many challenges, from lack of housing to inequities in our healthcare system, from millions of gallons of sewage coming across our border and polluting our beachfront communities, to our County not having a climate action plan. Now, South County has the highest confirmed count of COVID-19 cases – we need a representative who will step up and provide real leadership during difficult times.
I have dedicated my life to removing barriers for underserved communities through civic engagement, public policy, and community organizing. I have been in our communities doing the real work on the ground for many years. As an elected member of the Southwestern College Governing Board, I have balanced tough budgets, increased transparency and strengthened community partnerships. I continue to advocate for students to have access to affordable education and job training, from recent high school graduates, to our veterans, returning students and our DREAMers. As Vice President of Community and Government Relations at Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest, I championed expanded healthcare services, women’s reproductive rights and health education for youth and families. As a former member of the California State Teachers Retirement (CalSTRS) Board, the largest teacher retirement system in the nation, I worked to ensure that CalSTRS investments were socially responsible and financially sound.
I have an understanding of the issues and have done real work on the ground that has impacted people’s daily lives. My role as a fearless advocate of this District has only been enhanced as our communities tackle the public health crisis before us. I have worked to ensure that our students at Southwestern College have a fully stocked pantry, delivered warm meals and conducted wellness checks with the seniors in our communities, developed a bilingual virtual platform connecting community members to resources or experts and advocates in workers’ rights, housing, domestic violence, small business, and healthcare.
Our path to recovery from this global pandemic will not be easy and it requires a collaborative leader who can bring people together to develop innovative solutions as our county rebuilds and works toward a collective future in a changed environment. I am committed to hit the ground running on day one and will ensure that as we seek a path to prosperity, that economic stimulus be provided to support the recovery of small businesses and nonprofit organizations.
As Supervisor, I will fight to ensure that the County is providing our communities with the resources they need and deserve. I hope to earn your support and vote to move District 1 and San Diego County forward.
In Service,
Nora Vargas