SQUARE ONE ENDORSES MARNI VON WILPERT FOR U.S. HOUSE
WASHINGTON, D.C., March 12, 2026 - Today, Square One, which seeks out the most promising Democratic women, people of color, and members of the LGBTQ+ community to run for Congress in long-overlooked red districts and states, is excited to endorse Marni von Wilpert for California’s 48th Congressional District.
“We’re excited to see Marni step up to fight for our democracy, address affordability, and strengthen public safety,” said Tony Vargas, Executive Director of Square One. “San Diegans are fortunate to have her running for Congress, not just to represent the community, but to advocate for all Americans. At a time when we need results, Marni brings a solutions-oriented approach and a proven record of getting things done, regardless of party.”
Marni von Wilpert is a San Diego City Councilmember, former federal labor lawyer for President Obama’s administration, LGBTQ+ woman, and lifelong public servant who flipped San Diego’s most conservative City Council seat blue. Raised in North County and a Peace Corps alum, she has spent her career fighting for working families — helping write the PRO Act in Congress and taking on price gougers, polluters, and wage theft back home. She’s running for Congress to lower the cost of living, protect reproductive freedom, defend LGTBQ+ rights, and stand up for working families.
Marni von Wilpert’s campaign has built significant momentum in the race to represent California’s 48th District. With the recently announced retirement of Republican Darrel Issa, this seat is now open. The Cook Political Report rates CA-48 as Toss-Up, and the PVI is D+2.
“Square One is proud to support Marni because California deserves a proven and tested public servant fighting for them in Washington.” – Tony Vargas, Executive Director of Square One.
Marni von Wilpert is joining the current slate of Square One’s endorsed challenger candidates for the 2026 cycle including: Carol Obando-Derstine (PA-07), Christina Hines (MI-10), Denise Powell (NE-02), JoAnna Mendoza (AZ-01), Randy Villegas (CA-22), and Rebecca Bennett (NJ-07).
About Square One:
Square One seeks out the most promising Democratic women, people of color, and members of the LGBTQ+ community to run for Congress in long-overlooked red districts and states, and provides the high-impact, hands-on support they need to launch, run, and win their groundbreaking campaigns — against all the odds. Square One has helped elect Rep. Lauren Underwood, Rep. Sharice Davids, Senator Angela Alsobrooks, Senator Ruben Gallego, and more.