Carlsbad Mayor · Nov 3, 2026

Stephen Banister

Candidate for Mayor

8 candidates · 3 seats6 sourced positions

Stephen Banister is running for mayor of Carlsbad in the Nov 3, 2026 election, against Keith Blackburn, Bill Arsenault and Eric Nixon.

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Ballots start going out · Mon, Oct 5, 2026

Today

Coastal geologist who works as an energy program supervisor for the California Energy Commission.

Occupation (from candidate statement): Energy Program Supervisor
Campaign website: www.stephenbanister.com

The League of Women Voters of North County San Diego held a Sept. 28, 2026 forum with mayoral candidates Keith Blackburn, Bill Arsenault, Eric Nixon and Stephen Banister. San Diego Union-Tribune · Sep 29, 2026

Where Stephen Banister stands: positions on the record

Safe parking1 sourced position

As reported by the San Diego Union-Tribune; not a direct quote
Said he would support a safe parking program for people living in their vehicles.
Forum answerSan Diego Union-Tribune · Sep 29, 2026

Immigration enforcement1 sourced position

As reported by the San Diego Union-Tribune
Said the way ICE raids have created terror in many communities is heartbreaking to him.
“We need to treat people like human beings,”
Forum answerSan Diego Union-Tribune · Sep 29, 2026

Local control1 sourced position

As reported by the San Diego Union-Tribune; not a direct quote
Agreed with the other mayoral candidates at a League of Women Voters forum on the need for more local control over development.
Forum answerSan Diego Union-Tribune · Sep 29, 2026

Coastline1 sourced position

Proposes using Batiquitos Lagoon as a sand source for beach erosion work, including on state beaches.
“Batiquitos lagoon is a suitable borrow source that can be utilized today and in the future while maintaining a watchful eye on migratory bird patterns.”
Own statementStephen Banister campaign site

Ponto1 sourced position

Says he supports People for Ponto and would negotiate with private property owners for a park.
Own statementStephen Banister campaign site

Utility costs1 sourced position

Proposes using the Carlsbad desalination plant in a power-and-water swap to lower regional energy and water rates.
Own statementStephen Banister campaign site

Also running for Mayor

All 8 Carlsbad candidates →

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