Nora Vargas, chair of the San Diego County Board of Supervisors, unexpectedly announced that she is stepping down from office on Dec. 20.
This announcement follows her reelection for another four-year term in November, after two years serving as chair and two years as the vice chair. Vargas was the first Latina to join the board when she was elected in 2020.
In her statement online, Vargas said she decided to conclude her tenure as county supervisor for personal safety and security reasons.
“It has been my honor to serve in public office during unprecedented times, including the past four years on the County Board of Supervisors,” Vargas said in an online statement. “… My priority has always been our community, ensuring that everyone can be seen, heard and have a chance to thrive.”
The announcement stirred up commentary online, some negative and some positive. Supervisor Terra Lawson-Remer, the board’s current vice chair, said in a statement that she greatly appreciates Vargas’ service.
“As vice chair of the County Board of Supervisors,” Lawson-Remer said, “let me assure you that the work and new direction of the County will continue moving forward. We will continue advancing our agenda to uplift all of our communities.”
It is likely the board will discuss the next steps at the Jan. 7 meeting.
