By Dr. Julie Ducharme
When Rebecca Jones took the oath as the first female Mayor of San Marcos, California, she wasn’t just stepping into a position—she was stepping into her purpose. Her rise to leadership wasn’t paved by privilege or legacy. Instead, it was shaped by hardship, grit, and an unwavering commitment to serve her community. From scrubbing toilets as a child to leading one of the fastest-growing cities in San Diego County, Rebecca’s story is proof that courageous women can—and do—change the world.
A Childhood Marked by Challenge
Rebecca’s leadership journey began in East County San Diego, where her idyllic childhood was quickly derailed by her parents’ divorce when she was just 11. The years that followed were marked by instability, poverty, and trauma. Her mother cleaned houses to make ends meet, often with young Rebecca by her side—literally helping scrub toilets.
“I felt like I was parenting myself,” she shared during an episode of the She CEO podcast. “I don’t want any child to ever feel like that.”
Yet, through the pain came resilience. Supported by her grandfather and driven by a deep desire to do more, Rebecca found an inner strength that would guide her through every season of her life—from family responsibilities to civic leadership.
From Business to Civic Duty
Before entering politics, Rebecca built a successful career in new home sales and entrepreneurship. She co-founded a business with her husband and found professional success, but it was a proposed land-use change in her neighborhood that would shift her path forever. With a young daughter at home and concern for her community, she dove headfirst into local issues—reading reports, attending meetings, and making her voice heard.
Soon, local leaders—one Democrat, one Republican—urged her to run for office, recognizing her intellect and tenacity. Despite her doubts, she ran for City Council and appointed in 2007 and elected in 2008. She would go on to be re-elected several times and serve as Vice Mayor before being elected Mayor in 2018 and again in 2022.
“I didn’t think I could do it,” she admits. “But here I am, 19 years later. And I love it.”
A Mayor for the People
As Mayor, Rebecca Jones has redefined what it means to lead. Her style is approachable, transparent, and deeply rooted in community service. Whether it’s speaking with children at local schools or chatting with residents in the grocery store, she makes herself available and accountable.
“I want people to talk to me,” she says. “I want to know what they need.”
Her track record reflects that commitment. Under her leadership, San Marcos has:
- Become one of California’s safest cities, now ranked #13 in the state.
- Achieved Class 1 fire agency status, reducing insurance costs for residents.
- Added or rebuilt 18 parks across the city.
- Attracted a second hospital and expanded healthcare access.
- Distributed more than $3 million in local COVID relief to small businesses.
She also launched the city’s LEAN department—focused on transparency, efficiency, and smart spending. Her mayoral reelection in 2022 came with a strong 64% of the vote, proof that her community trusts her leadership.
Breaking Barriers for Women in Politics
Despite her success, Rebecca remains one of only six female mayors across 18 cities in San Diego County. Of the 100 local seats available across city councils and county supervisor roles, only 39 are held by women.
She’s determined to change that.
Rebecca is now running for District 5 County Supervisor, a seat that has never been held by a woman. Her goal? To bring her proven track record of local leadership to the county level—and to empower more women to run and lead.
She speaks candidly about the challenges women face in politics: being sidelined, dismissed, and discouraged. Even She CEO host Dr. Julie Ducharme admitted being told “don’t do it” when she once considered public office. Rebecca’s advice for those aspiring to make change? Don’t let anyone talk you out of your purpose.
“Be courageous,” she says. “That’s what I would tell my younger self. Courage is the key to everything.”
A Public Servant, Not a Politician
Rebecca often draws a line between being a “politician” and being a “public servant.” She believes the former is about positioning and popularity, while the latter is about responsibility and trust. She’s not afraid to take heat when necessary—especially when it comes to staying focused on her city.
When pressured to take a public stance on national or international issues, Rebecca stays grounded. “I focus on what I can actually change,” she explains. “That’s how you serve people.”
She encourages other women leaders to “stay in your lane,” resist distractions, and stay anchored in their core values. Whether it’s budgeting, public safety, or neighborhood development, her compass remains the same: care deeply, listen honestly, and lead boldly.
Creating Blue Zones and Healthier Communities
Rebecca’s current initiatives include leading San Marcos toward becoming the first “Blue Zone” in San Diego County. The Blue Zones Project focuses on improving longevity and community health by shaping local environments around wellness. For Rebecca, this is a natural extension of her lifelong commitment to quality of life.
“I want people to live long, healthy, meaningful lives in a city that supports them,” she says. The city will begin its Blue Zones assessment study in July.
Using Her Voice to Uplift Others
Rebecca is also the host of the SheEO Lead In podcast, where she interviews women leaders across industries. It’s another platform for empowerment—one she never saw growing up. Now, she’s working to ensure the next generation hears what she never did: you matter, you can lead, and your story has power.
She speaks often to students, telling them: “Life is hard. But if you can find something you’re excited about, don’t ever give up on it.”
Her Superpower: Authenticity
If there’s one theme that underscores Rebecca’s story, it’s authenticity. She urges all women in leadership—whether in business, education, or government—to hold on to who they are.
“Don’t let someone change the core of who you are to fit into politics,” she says. “Your authenticity is what gets you elected—and what keeps people believing in you.”
Looking Ahead
As she continues her campaign for County Supervisor, Rebecca remains committed to grassroots efforts. She’s not backed by a political machine—she’s supported by the everyday residents who have seen her leadership in action.
Her message to women everywhere?
“You don’t need to have a poli-sci degree. You don’t need to come from a political family. You just need to care—and be willing to work.”
With heart, grit, and courage, Mayor Rebecca Jones is leading the way—showing us that public service is not about power, but about people.
Learn more about her campaign at: www.jonesforsupervisor.org
Follow her leadership podcast: The SheEO Lead In
Available wherever you get your podcasts.
