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Huntington Beach Councilmember Launches 2026 Campaign

Gracey Van Der Mark engaging with community members during her campaign launch.

News Summary

Gracey Van Der Mark, a Councilmember from Huntington Beach, has announced her candidacy for California’s 72nd Assembly District, eyeing the 2026 election. With a focus on public safety, homelessness, parental rights, and taxation, she aims to build on Diane Dixon’s legacy while engaging with various voter groups across party lines. Van Der Mark, who brings significant local experience, is committed to advocating for local control and community values as she enters the election race.

Huntington Beach Councilmember Announces 2026 Assembly Bid

Huntington Beach Councilmember Gracey Van Der Mark has officially launched her campaign for California’s 72nd Assembly District seat, targeting the upcoming election in 2026. This decision follows the announcement that the current Assemblymember, Diane Dixon, is leaving to pursue a position on Orange County’s Board of Supervisors.

Campaign Focus Areas

Van Der Mark’s campaign emphasizes public safety, homelessness, parental rights, and taxation as her primary focus areas. The councilmember has expressed her commitment to preserving the values of Huntington Beach and aims to restore common sense to California’s governance. Acknowledging the Democratic majority in Sacramento, she has indicated a readiness to work collaboratively across party lines to achieve effective governance.

Political Background

Community Engagement

Having lived in Huntington Beach for 24 years, Van Der Mark brings a personal connection to the community. Originally from Maywood, California, she is the daughter of immigrant parents and a mother to seven children. Her background and experiences form the foundation of her commitment to local issues and community values.

Legacy of Diane Dixon

Van Der Mark intends to honor Diane Dixon’s service by continuing her legacy as a conservative representative for the 72nd District. This district covers a range of cities along the coastal areas of Orange County, from Seal Beach to Laguna Beach, including some inland areas such as Aliso Viejo and Lake Forest.

Political Landscape

As of February, the political landscape in the 72nd Assembly District shows that registered Republicans make up 39.8% of voters, while Democrats account for 32.14%, and voters with no party preference comprise 21.32%. This demographic layout will be critical for Van Der Mark’s campaign as she seeks to mobilize support among various voter groups.

Support for the Campaign

Van Der Mark has gained endorsements from prominent political figures, including former GOP Assembly leader Scott Baugh, reinforcing her position as a serious contender for the Assembly seat.

Previous Political Endeavors

Term Timeline

Van Der Mark’s current term on the Huntington Beach City Council ends in 2026, which aligns with her potential election to the Assembly, allowing for a seamless transition should she win the seat.

Commitment to Local Control

As the election approaches, Van Der Mark’s campaign will likely shape the political landscape of the 72nd Assembly District and engage voters in critical debates on local and state-level issues.