Stephen Whitburn

Stephen Whitburn is an American politician serving as a member of the San Diego City Council since 2020, representing District 3. A member of the Democratic Party, he represents the communities of Balboa Park/Park West, Bankers Hill, Downtown, Golden Hill, Hillcrest, Little Italy, Middleton, Mission Hills, North Park, South Park, and University Heights.

Early life and education
Whitburn was born in West Germany and grew up in multiple states. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish and Latin American studies from the University of Wisconsin–Madison.

Career
Whitburn started working for a radio station as a news reporter in Madison, Wisconsin for nine years before accepting a position for a radio station in San Diego. He then worked as a public affairs manager for the American Red Cross, later taking roles as directors of San Diego Pride and the Southern California chapter of the American Cancer Society.

He ran for the San Diego City Council seat vacated by Chris Ward, who left to become a member of the California State Assembly representing California's 78th State Assembly district. He won his primary race and defeated general election candidate, Toni Duran.

After assuming office in December 2020, Whitburn became president pro tempore of the San Diego City Council for the 2020–2021 term. He ran for re-election in 2024, advancing from the primary election with 52.4% of the vote. He will face off against fellow Democrat Coleen Cusack in the November 2024 general election.