Carl DeMaio

Carl David DeMaio was born on September 14, 1974, in San Diego, California. He is a Republican politician currently serving in the California State Assembly, representing District 75, which encompasses North and East San Diego County. DeMaio is a conservative activist and podcast host who founded Reform California, a statewide grassroots conservative political organization. He hosts the podcast "Reform California with Carl DeMaio" on YouTube and other streaming services.

DeMaio is notably the first openly gay Republican elected to the California State Legislature. He lives in San Diego with his husband, who runs a public relations firm.

Political Experience

DeMaio began his political career when he was elected to the San Diego City Council in 2008, representing District 5, making him the first openly gay man elected to the council. He served a single term until 2012. During his tenure on the city council, he drew attention for his efforts to cut public pensions, which drew opposition from police and firefighters' unions.

Beyond the city council, DeMaio helped lead the successful recall of Democratic state Senator Josh Newman and worked to place an unsuccessful proposition to repeal the gas tax in 2018.

In 2024, DeMaio was elected to the California State Assembly, representing District 75. He won his election with 57.02% of the vote against Republican candidate Andrew Hayes. District 75 is considered a Safe Republican District.

Current Positions and Committees

As an Assembly Member, DeMaio serves on several standing committees:

• Member, Emergency Management
• Vice Chair, Higher Education
• Member, Privacy and Consumer Protection
• Member, Revenue and Taxation