Erik Weigand announces run for upcoming Newport Beach City Council election

BY LILLY NGUYENSTAFF WRITER

DEC. 7, 20215:12 PM PT

From planning commissioner to city council member, that’s the hope for Erik Weigand, who announced his candidacy to represent District 3 in Tuesday’s Newport Beach election.

The district encompasses the neighborhoods surrounding upper Newport Bay and is currently represented by Councilman Marshall “Duffy” Duffield, who was elected to the council in 2014 and narrowly held onto his seat in 2018.

Also terming out next year will be Councilwoman Diane Dixon, who represents District 1, and Mayor Pro Tem Kevin Muldoon, who represents District 4.

Councilwoman Joy Brenner will still be eligible for reelection in District 6, which encompasses Corona del Mar.

Council members represent districts but are voted in at-large.

Weigand has served as a planning commissioner for the city for the last six years but works as a district director for state Sen. Patricia Bates (R-Laguna Niguel).

According to LinkedIn, Weigand has also worked for the Republican Party of Orange County, several political campaigns and for Orange County as a deputy chief of staff.

His wife, Krista, also serves on the board of trustees for the Newport-Mesa Unified School District.

Weigand said he was born and raised in Newport Beach and describes his desire to run for council as a way to give back to “the community that has given me so many opportunities,” according to his campaign site.

“As someone who has been lucky enough to have spent their entire life in Newport Beach, I am extremely honored to have this opportunity to give back to our community,” Weigand said in a statement.

“Newport Beach is a special place and I am committed on fighting to ensure it is protected locally and away from the overreach of Sacramento politicians.”

Weigand’s announcement follows that of fellow candidates Robyn Grant and Joe Stapleton.