For years, I’ve fought to keep San Diego County financially strong and prepared for emergencies. Thanks to responsible leadership, we’ve maintained a reserve fund to protect families when disaster strikes—whether it’s wildfires, floods, or economic downturns.

I’m proud to share some great news from today’s Board of Supervisors meeting: We delivered two critical wins for San Diego County—starting with a major breakthrough in our fight to end veteran homelessness.

Yesterday, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors took an important step to protect the lives of young athletes—unanimously approving a proposal by Supervisor Jim Desmond to expand access to Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) for youth sports organizations across the region.

Today, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors adjourned our meeting in honor of a man whose leadership helped shape the very foundation of our region—Walt Ekard.

Today, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors adjourned our meeting in memory of Chairman Bo Mazzetti — a giant in tribal leadership, a devoted public servant, and a man whose legacy will forever shape California and its tribal nations.

Today marks a major victory for our veterans and our region. The San Diego County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a measure brought forward by Supervisor Jim Desmond to continue and expand the County’s efforts to end veteran homelessness.

Yesterday, I had the great privilege of recognizing Zucette Lumabas for her outstanding contributions to the Oceanside community and beyond. Joined by her son Neil, Zucette embodies the true spirit of service, generosity, and leadership.

Southern California faces a growing wildfire crisis, and we must take immediate action to protect our communities. In January alone, multiple fires—including the Friars Fire in Mission Valley, the Center Fire in Rancho Bernardo, and the Gilman Fire in La Jolla—originated in homeless encampments.

Do you want to pay more in taxes? I don’t think so. Yet, one of my colleagues is looking at adding a tax increase to the ballot.