Kevin Faulconer, Mayor, San Diego

In a climate of seemingly unprecedented polarization, can Republicans in California make a comeback? It may seem daunting, but as the mayor of California’s second most populous city, Kevin Faulconer strives to appeal to all.

Elected 36th mayor of San Diego in 2014 after a highly publicized special election, Faulconer easily won reelection in 2016. He has focused on improving infrastructure, reducing homelessness and creating neighborhood safety initiatives. He has joined Democrats with a strong commitment to environmental protection and a pathway to citizenship for immigrants, which have put him in direct opposition to the Trump administration and other Republicans on the national stage.