Political Party:
Democrat
Ballot Designation:
Ethics Attorney
Law Enforcement Contributions:
None as of 4/13/26
Background:
Mara Elliott served as the City Attorney of San Diego from 2016-2024 where she prioritized gun violence prevention and support for victims of domestic violence, sex trafficking, and elder abuse. Specifically, she launched shelter resources for survivors of domestic violence and filed a lawsuit against the opioid industry which secured funds for addiction services.
Public Safety Platform:
On her campaign website, Elliott lists several public safety priorities centered on gun violence prevention and serving survivors of violence and abuse. She also prioritizes substance abuse treatment over incarceration, stating that she would: “Support those with severe mental health issues in treatment facilities instead of jail or hospitals.”
Although some of her past accomplishments emphasize collaboration with law enforcement, it is clear that Elliott favors a preventative and community-driven approach to public safety. Given the extreme views of her opponents in the race, IJ Action recommends voters support Mara Elliott for Senate.
Website:
Political Party:
Republican
Ballot Designation:
Businesswoman/Victims Advocate
Law Enforcement Contributions: None as of 4/13/26
Background:
Kristi Bruce-Lane is a former elected official on the San Diego Water Board. She is the founder and President of The Thumbprint Project Foundation which is described as assisting unhoused kids in transitioning from experiences with childhood domestic violence. She unsuccessfully ran for Assembly in 2024.
Public Safety Platform:
Bruce-Lane has written the following on her website regarding public safety priorities: “The rise in crime, especially violent crimes, across the country is alarming. While San Diego County reports lower crime rates than Los Angeles, our residents, our neighborhoods, our businesses are less safe because of soft-on-crime policies. I successfully fought on the frontlines to keep Sexually Violent Predators away from our children and out of our communities and I will fight for your safety in Sacramento. I support prevention programs for our at-risk youth as well rehabilitation programs for those re-entering our communities. My work on keeping our communities safe are recognized by law enforcement and crime survivors, having received the endorsement of Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco and Crime Survivors PAC.”
Website:
Political Party:
Republican
Ballot Designation:
Councilman, City of San Marcos
Law Enforcement Contributions: None as of 4/13/26
Background:
Ed Musgrove is an Army Veteran and longtime deputy with the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department. He was elected to the San Marcos City Council in 2020.
Public Safety Platform:
As a Sheriff, Musgrove describes himself as “Law Enforcement’s Choice” and outlines several tough-on-crime policies on his campaign website, including increasing funding to law enforcement and “empower[ing] District Attorney’s to prosecute violent and repeat offenders.”
He also parades the false claim that crime is rising in California, stating: “California has seen an increase in violent and property crimes. With the recent passage of Prop 36, we now have the tools to fight back against repeat offenders. I will work with District Attorneys to develop a strong law enforcement agenda that keeps our families safe.”
Musgrove is endorsed by several law enforcement agencies, including: San Diego Deputy Sheriffs’ Association, San Diego Police Officers’ Association, California Association of Highway Patrolmen, Peace Officer Research Association, California State Coalition of Probation Officers, San Diego County Probation Officers Association, and the Escondido Police Officers Association.
Website:
