Santa Barbara, CAVoter Guide 2026 · not a ballot

Santa Barbara Mayor · Nov 3, 2026

Matt Kilrain

Candidate for Mayor

15 candidates · 4 seats2 sourced positions

Matt Kilrain is running for mayor of Santa Barbara in the Nov 3, 2026 election, against Eric Friedman, Kristen W. Sneddon and Wendy Sims-Moten.

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Vote-by-mail ballots mailed and ballot drop-off locations open · Mon, Oct 5, 2026

Today

Author known locally as "Boat Rat Matt." Ran for mayor of Santa Barbara in 2021.

Occupation (from candidate statement)
Author

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Matt Kilrain did not respond to Noozhawk's interview request for its mayoral story. Noozhawk

Where Matt Kilrain stands: positions on the record

Campaign priorities1 sourced position

  • as reported by the Santa Barbara News-Press; not a direct quote except the quoted words

    Lists keeping Santa Barbara safe for children, uniting people with diverse beliefs, supporting local entrepreneurs and strengthening council oversight as his goals.

    “Stop the divide, raise the vibe and unite the 805.”

    Own statementSanta Barbara News-Press · Aug 24, 2026

Past candidacy1 sourced position

Also running for Mayor

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