Ellis California Jones

Ellis California Jones ran for election to the San Diego City Council to represent District 3 in California. He lost in the primary on March 5, 2024.

California Jones completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2023. Click here to read the survey answers.

Elections

2024

General election

General election for San Diego City Council District 3

Incumbent Stephen Whitburn defeated Coleen Cusack in the general election for San Diego City Council District 3 on November 5, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Stephen Whitburn (Nonpartisan)	57.5	38,344
	Submit photo	Coleen Cusack (Nonpartisan)	42.5	28,303

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 66,647
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Nonpartisan primary election

Nonpartisan primary for San Diego City Council District 3

Incumbent Stephen Whitburn and Coleen Cusack defeated Kate Callen and Ellis California Jones in the primary for San Diego City Council District 3 on March 5, 2024.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Stephen Whitburn (Nonpartisan)	52.4	17,033
✔	Submit photo	Coleen Cusack (Nonpartisan)	20.9	6,811
		Kate Callen (Nonpartisan)	16.7	5,417
		Ellis California Jones (Nonpartisan)	10.0	3,254

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 32,515
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Endorsements

Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for California Jones in this election.

Campaign themes

2024

Ballotpedia survey responses

Ellis California Jones completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2023. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by California Jones' responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Expand all | Collapse all

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Ellis California Jones, a San Diego native and entrepreneur, is driven by a passion for societal improvement. His resilience and dedication to community are core to his being.

Jones' life hasn't been without obstacles. Raised in City Heights, his family was forced out by developers and even lived out of a car before finding shelter. He understands the criminal justice system, having spent years incarcerated. During this time, he educated others in computer literacy and helped them earn GEDs. His insight into the state's complexities, racial divisions, and cronyism fueled his passion for justice, igniting his public service path.

Upon returning to society, Ellis focused on giving back, working actively on issues like homelessness and easing burdens on small businesses. His belief that everyone deserves a second chance drives him.

Ellis's community commitment led him to local politics, where he found his platform for change. As a proud San Diego Republican, he advocates for his fellow citizens continually.

Ellis California Jones, now running for District 3 Councilmember, seeks to leverage his diverse experiences and community spirit in local politics. His inspiring story testifies to his unwavering spirit and commitment to his community.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Security and safety are the cornerstones of a thriving community. In District 3, we must prioritize the well-being of our residents by fostering a strong relationship between law enforcement and the community. My campaign is committed to enhancing police effectiveness through increased accountability and transparency, while also reducing unnecessary restrictions. By allocating resources towards community alternatives and empowering local groups to collaborate with the San Diego police, we can create a safer environment for all. Together, we can build trust, bolster crime prevention, and ensure that our streets are secure.
Homelessness is not just a problem; it's a human tragedy that requires compassion, understanding, and innovative solutions. My campaign recognizes the complexity of homelessness and is committed to addressing it head-on. We'll categorize our homeless population into specific groups, including mental health, economic issues, substance abuse, and more, to create tailored solutions. By assessing available bed spaces across the city, non-profit, and private sectors, we'll ensure that everyone has a place to call home. Together, we can build a San Diego that cares for its most vulnerable, providing shelter and support to those who need it most.
Local businesses are the heartbeat of San Diego's District 3, and it's time to energize and support them like never before. My campaign is dedicated to bringing excitement back to San Diego, involving the local community, and creating opportunities for our children to succeed after high school. By streamlining contract opportunities, simplifying permit processes, and fostering innovation like the creation of a professional racing circuit, we can build a thriving and business-friendly environment. Together, we can get back to business, fostering economic prosperity, community engagement, and a bright future for our youth.

Community Question Featured local question

Do you think the downtown area is healthy? What is your definition of a healthy downtown? What changes, if any, would you like to make?

While the downtown area of San Diego has many strengths, I believe there are key areas that need improvement to make it truly healthy. To me, a healthy downtown is one that balances the needs of residents, businesses, tourists, and the most vulnerable members of our community.

First and foremost, we must address the homeless situation. It's not enough to simply move people off the streets; we must provide comprehensive support, shelter, and opportunities to help them rebuild their lives. This is a moral imperative and a critical step towards a healthier downtown.

Second, we need to attract more businesses and industries to the area. A thriving downtown is one that offers diverse economic opportunities, fosters innovation, and creates jobs for our residents.

Finally, while tourism is an essential part of our economy, we must ensure that we are not catering solely to tourists at the expense of our residents. A healthy downtown is one that serves the people who live and work there every day, not just those who visit. We must create policies that balance the needs of tourists and residents, ensuring that our community is not left to "hold the trash bag" after visitors leave.

In summary, a healthy downtown is one that is economically vibrant, socially inclusive, and mindful of the needs of all its inhabitants. By addressing homelessness, supporting local businesses, and creating a balanced approach to tourism, we can build a downtown that truly reflects the values and aspirations of San Diego's District 3.

Community Question Featured local question

How important is it to involve residents in the government’s decision-making process? What plans do you have regarding resident involvement in this process?

As a candidate for District 3 Councilmember, I view the councilmember's role as a field management position, where active community involvement is not just important, but essential. I believe in being on the ground, speaking to residents and businesses, and staying in communication as much as possible. It's through these interactions that I can truly understand the needs and desires of my community, ensuring that their voices are heard and reflected in the decision-making process. To me, this approach signifies not just responsible governance but also a deep commitment to the people I aim to serve. It's about bridging the gap between the council and the community, making sure that everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Community Question Featured local question

How should record requests from the public be handled? Do you have any policies around transparency and accountability you want to enact?

I firmly believe in full transparency when it comes to record requests from the public. Transparency builds trust, fosters accountability, and ensures that government is working in the best interest of the people. However, I also recognize that there may be sensitive cases where certain information must be handled with care. In those instances, we must balance the public's right to know with the need to protect privacy and security. My policy would be to create clear guidelines that prioritize openness and accessibility while also considering the unique nature of each request. Together, we can create a system that upholds the values of transparency and accountability, ensuring that San Diego's District 3 remains a model of good governance.

Community Question Featured local question

What do you think about the city's current approach to public safety? Would you take any different positions?

The city’s current approach to Public Safety is No Approach. I will definitely change that so that kids don’t get swept up in the system due to the city enabling them to do crimes.

Community Question Featured local question

What plans do you have regarding the police department? Would you make any changes from current policy?

I believe in empowering our police force to effectively carry out their duties, which means not placing unnecessary handcuffs on them. However, this empowerment must be balanced with firm accountability. My plan is to create an environment where law enforcement can perform their essential role in maintaining safety, while also ensuring that they are held to the highest standards of conduct and responsibility. Together, we can build a police department that serves and protects all residents of San Diego.

Community Question Featured local question

What policies would you have implemented in reaction to the COVID-19 pandemic? Why did you select those policies?

Not a fan of Vaccine Mandates. Google “Tuskegee Experiment” if you really want to know why government shouldn’t force vaccines onto people.

Those who want it, should be able to get one. But don’t force it.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I'm deeply passionate about bringing sportsmanship back to politics. In a time when division often overshadows dialogue, I believe in fostering an environment where diversity of thought is celebrated, and open conversation is encouraged. Just like in sports, where teamwork and fair play lead to success, our political landscape should be guided by respect, collaboration, and a shared goal to uplift our community.

Furthermore, I'm committed to showing others that America is still in its prime. Our nation's potential is boundless, but we must use it right. By embracing our core values, nurturing innovation, and working together, we can create a future that honors our rich heritage and paves the way for continued greatness. My campaign is not just about winning a seat; it's about rekindling the American spirit and making San Diego's District 3 a shining example of what we can achieve together.

What qualities does this office possess that makes it a unique and important part of the state government and legal system?

The San Diego city councilmember position is unique and vital, serving as a direct voice for a diverse community that includes Balboa Park, Hillcrest, North Park, and others. In the strong mayor system, this role requires engaging with residents, balancing varied interests, and influencing local policies that shape daily lives. From economic development to advocacy for vulnerable populations, the councilmember's work is central to the well-being and prosperity of the district, making this office an essential part of the local government system.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

My Father.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

Yes. Read “The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I am 20 percent Talk, 80 percent Action.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I would like to bring back the cordiality in politics.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

The first historical event that happened in my lifetime that I vividly remember was the tearing down of 44th and University to build a shopping center. This event had a profound impact on my life, as my family went from having a happy home to being homeless for a while. I was young at the time, and I couldn't help but wonder why the city would do something like that to a community without providing anything in return. It was a harsh lesson in the complexities of urban development and the importance of community engagement.

My second significant experience was going to trial as my own lawyer. During this time, I realized that the lack of education was the real injustice in our legal system. I witnessed firsthand how many inmates, due to their lack of education, ended up receiving the harshest sentences. These experiences have shaped my understanding of justice, community, and the importance of education, and they continue to fuel my passion for representing the people of San Diego District 3.

What is your favorite book? Why?

The Autobiography of Malcolm X by Alex Haley.

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

Angel Olsen - All Mirrors

Do you believe that it's beneficial for holders of this office to have previous experience in government or politics?

No, I don't believe that previous experience in government or politics is a necessary prerequisite for holders of this office. While such experience can be valuable, it can also lead to the creation of career politicians. These individuals may find themselves governing residents and businesses with whom they have no genuine connection or understanding. What truly matters is a commitment to the community, a clear vision for its future, and the ability to engage with and respond to the unique needs and aspirations of the people. Fresh perspectives and authentic relationships with the community can be just as valuable, if not more so, than traditional political experience.

What kind of skills or expertise do you believe would be the most helpful for the holders of this office to possess?

I believe that the councilmember position, especially in the strong mayor system, is fundamentally a field position. The most vital skill for holders of this office is community engagement. Being able to connect with, understand, and respond to the unique needs and concerns of the community is essential. It's about being present, accessible, and committed to working hand-in-hand with the people to create positive change in San Diego's District 3.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

Note: Community Questions were submitted by the public and chosen for inclusion by a volunteer advisory board. The chosen questions were modified by staff to adhere to Ballotpedia’s neutrality standards. To learn more about Ballotpedia’s Candidate Connection Expansion Project, click here.

External links

Search Google News for this topic

Candidate

San Diego City Council District 3

Personal

Footnotes

	v • e State of California Sacramento (capital)
Elections	What's on my ballot? \| Elections in 2025 \| How to vote \| How to run for office \| Ballot measures
Government	Who represents me? \| U.S. President \| U.S. Congress \| Federal courts \| State executives \| State legislature \| State and local courts \| Counties \| Cities \| School districts \| Public policy

Ellis California Jones

Contents

Elections

2024

General election

General election for San Diego City Council District 3

Nonpartisan primary election

Nonpartisan primary for San Diego City Council District 3

Endorsements

Campaign themes

2024

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also

External links

Footnotes

Information about voting

2026 Elections

2025 Elections

Election analysis

Trending

Public Policy

Information for candidates

Get Engaged

Services

Additional analysis

SITE NAVIGATION