An Experienced Media Executive and Community Leader Sets Sights on Washington
Margarita Wilkinson, a Republican and media executive, has officially taken the oath of candidacy in her bid for the 49th Congressional District in California. Wilkinson took her oath of office on November 30, she announced in an X post.
Wilkinson shared a photo of herself taking the oath of candidacy, accompanied by the caption: “Today I had the great honor of taking the oath of candidacy to run for U.S. Congress in #CA49. I will fight to secure the border, strengthen our economy, crack down on crime, and stand up to China.
“Celebrated as one of the top 50 Latino leaders of influence by the San Diego Business Journal in 2022, sets her sights on challenging incumbent Rep. Mike Levin (D-Dana Point).
Wilkinson’s tenure as senior vice president and general manager of Entravision Communications, the parent company of Univision San Diego, has honed her understanding of the community’s pulse. “For the last 13 years, I’ve served as the eyes and ears of my community working in media and with local nonprofits that lift people up,” Wilkinson stated. Her commitment to Californians is evident as she voices concerns about their economic struggles and feelings of being unheard in Washington.
Wilkinson’s leadership extends beyond her professional role, as evidenced by her active participation in various local organizations. She holds positions on the boards of the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce, Old Globe Theater, and the Lincoln Club of San Diego. Her previous contributions include serving on the boards of Big Brothers Big Sisters, Red Cross, San Diego Symphony, and ONE San Diego, reflecting her deep commitment to community welfare.
Addressing the pressing issues Californians face, Wilkinson highlighted alarming statistics in her campaign announcement. She cited a 44% increase in inflation over the last five years, an 85% rise in gas prices, a 38% increase in mortgage interest rates, and a 21% rise in homelessness, painting a stark picture of the current economic landscape. “In every measurable way, things are getting worse, and I am running for Congress to put my focus on the real issues impacting the lives of the people who live and work in the 49th District,” she asserted.
Wilkinson’s campaign has garnered robust support from prominent Republicans. San Marcos Mayor Rebecca Jones, former San Diego County Supervisor Kristin Gaspar, former San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer, and former San Diego council members Chris Cate and Scott Sherman have all endorsed her candidacy.
Born in Mexico City and raised in El Paso, Texas, Wilkinson’s journey to success is a testament to her determination and adaptability. A University of Texas, El Paso graduate, she has built a life in Del Mar with her husband, Philip, and their four children, epitomizing the American dream.
The 49th Congressional District, spanning northern coastal San Diego County and parts of southern Orange County, has been a political battleground. Historically represented by Republican Rep. Darrell Issa from 2003 to 2019, it shifted to Democrat representation under Levin since 2019. The district’s narrow Democrat-leaning Cook Partisan Voting Index underscores its status as a pivotal zone in Southern California politics. Wilkinson’s entry into the race is set to ignite a closely watched contest, promising a dynamic campaign season ahead.
