San Marcos voters choose between two former deputy mayors
Mike Sannella and Sharon Jenkins face off for the city council seat left vacant by Mayor Rebecca Jones, who is running for county supervisor.
By Pavel Henderson ·
San Marcos voters face a familiar contest this November as they select a successor to Mayor Rebecca Jones.
The race pits current Deputy Mayor Mike Sannella against former Deputy Mayor Sharon Jenkins. Sannella has held his city council seat since 2022. Jenkins completed a 12 year tenure before stepping down. Both candidates bring extensive experience to the role.
Jones, who is now seeking a seat as county supervisor, backs Sannella. The San Diego GOP also supports his campaign. Sannella said the city is focused on public safety, parks and recreation, and economic development. He described the goal as doing the work of residents in those key areas.
Jenkins has the endorsement of the San Diego Democrats. She said she hopes the race remains civil. Jenkins stated that if she could fix one thing immediately, it would be improving traffic flow in San Marcos. She noted that traffic is a constant topic of conversation for residents.
Both candidates emphasized a local focus over national party lines. Jenkins said she has stayed nonpartisan for 26 years under a San Marcos party mentality. Sannella agreed, saying the candidates tried to stay outside the fray of national politics. He framed the race as an effort to hold the course rather than turn things around.
Voters in San Marcos are weighing this decision alongside other local races. The outcome will determine the next leader of the city council.
Source: KNSD
