April 2, 2021

Contact: Darcél Elliott

Party Chair Darcél Elliott announced the Democratic Party’s endorsement of Cathy Murillo for Mayor of Santa Barbara, and Meagan Harmon and Kristen Sneddon for seats on the City Council. 

“As our Mayor Cathy Murillo has worked diligently to protect our environment and support working families. There is no one who works harder to improve this City we all love than her – both in City Hall, and on the ground in our community. As we begin to emerge from this health crisis and plan for economic recovery, Santa Barbara needs a proven leader with experience as our Mayor,” said Democratic Party Chair Darcél Elliott.

Voters residing in all parts of the City of Santa Barbara will cast their ballots in a city-wide election this November 2021.

Kristen Sneddon is a 34-year Santa Barbara resident who has served on the City Council since 2017. As a Councilmember, Sneddon has been a leader in the fight against climate change, recognizing the threat it poses to our community. An educator at Santa Barbara City College and a volunteer college counselor, Sneddon works closely with our community’s youth helping them to grow and succeed. Sneddon is passionate about environmental sustainability, economic vitality, and creating diverse housing choices while maintaining Santa Barbara’s character. She represents District 4, which includes the Upper east side, the Riviera, and the Cielito and Foothill areas.

Meagan Harmon is lawyer, mom, and renter who currently serves as the City Councilmember representing District 6. She previously served as a Commissioner on the Santa Barbara County Housing Authority. Harmon’s top priority is easing the burden on renters in Santa Barbara by building more workforce housing that protects the unique character of the city. Harmon has been a key voice on the Council for renter’s rights and protections from evictions. As the councilmember representing the State Street area, she has worked to identify solutions to revitalize our Downtown, such as the creation of the State Street promenade.

Endorsement decisions are made by the Santa Barbara Democratic Central Committee, which is made up of members elected by Santa Barbara County voters every four years. Members of the public who are registered Democrats can join monthly committee meetings by going to our website, and requesting Zoom access.

The Committee adopted a resolution condemning Republican efforts to recall Governor Gavin Newsom. “This recall attempt is a partisan power grab spearheaded by Trump-supporters and far right fringe groups. Democrats are united in support of Governor Newsom and against overturning fair elections,” said Democratic Party Chair Darcél Elliott.

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