Priya Bhat-Patel Announces Re-Election Bid For Carlsbad City Council

CARLSBAD, CA — Dr. Priya Bhat-Patel, a public health professional and two-term Carlsbad City Councilmember, has announced that she will seek re-election to the City Council in November 2026.

A daughter of Indian immigrants, Bhat-Patel made history in 2018 when she became the first Indian American ever elected to a City Council in San Diego County and the youngest person to serve on the Carlsbad City Council. Her first victory was decided by just 270 votes, underscoring the competitiveness of local races – a trend she expects will continue in 2026.

“Serving the community I grew up in has been the honor of my life,” Bhat-Patel said in announcing her campaign. “Together we’ve delivered results on quality of life, sustainability, public safety, and support for small businesses. But the work is far from over.”

Born and raised in Carlsbad, Bhat-Patel is a proud graduate of the Carlsbad Unified School District. She lives in the city with her husband and son. Professionally, she has spent her career advancing public health initiatives — improving access to healthcare for seniors, leading California’s statewide Family Justice Center initiative, and promoting violence prevention efforts.

During her time on the council, Bhat-Patel has championed environmental protection, economic growth, and diversity and inclusion initiatives. She has also served as Mayor Pro Tem.

If re-elected, Bhat-Patel says she plans to continue focusing on transparency, sustainability, public health, and improving the quality of life for all Carlsbad residents.

“This race was close in 2018, close in 2022, and it’s going to be just as competitive in 2026,” she said. “My commitment to serving this amazing city hasn’t changed, and I’m not ready to stop working to make our home a better place.”