San Diego County Supervisor Nora Vargas Steps Down Due to Security Threats Amid Immigrant Support

San Diego County Supervisor Nora Vargas abruptly stepped down from her post in December, citing "personal safety and security" issues as the main reason for her decision. Now, as her term officially ended this past Monday, Jan. 6, a number of public officials seek to fill her seat.

Vargas announced she was stepping down back on December 20th, just weeks after winning re-election. San Diego County Board of Supervisors, the legislative and executive branch of the county government, members are limited to two terms of four years.

"Due to personal safety and security reasons, I will not take the oath of office for a second term," Vargas said in a statement last month. "It has been my honor to serve in public office during unprecedented times, including the past four years on the San Diego County Board of Supervisors."

Vargas did not provide further detail about the nature of the threats and her office has declined to

The former member had recently led an effort to prevent the use of county resources and funding to assist federal immigration agents with deportations. The San Diego County Board of Supervisors voted on Dec. 10, to restrict the use of its jails, county buildings and personnel to help agents with federal immigration enforcement, according to the Border Report.

The Democrat was the first person of color and Latina to hold elected office on the board. She said in her statement that her priority "has always been our community, ensuring that everyone can be seen, heard and have a chance to thrive."

"As a Guerrera at my core, I remain committed to continuing the fight for equity, justice and human rights— just in a different capacity," Vargas said in her announcement about leaving her post. "I look forward to staying whole-heartedly engaged and active in the pursuit of a more equitable society."

The Board will now be tasked in finding a replacement for Vargas. They can appoint someone, hold a special election, or appoint someone until an election is held, ABC 10News San Diego reports.

But while no decision has been announced, the county announced Monday afternoon that a special board meeting to address the filling the seat is scheduled for Jan. 14 at noon.

Since Vargas announced her resignation, several lawmakers and personalities have thrown their names in the ring to step up to the plate. For one, San Diego City Councilmember Vivian Moreno and Chula Vista Mayor John McCann have expressed their interest in running to replace Vargas.

Imperial Beach Mayor Paloma Aguirre, as well as Chula Vista Councilmember Carolina Chavez have also expressed interest in the position, as reported by Axios San Diego.